Mar 11, 2025

El Winnie (Xiongzai) Madrid

Cheap authentic Chinese

""El Winnie", as it has been baptised by locals (guess why!), is one of Madrid's most authentic Chinese restaurants. My favourite dish? The cold noodles..."

Chinese food is having a moment in Madrid, and I love it! If like me you enjoy the real deal, try “El Winnie”, as it has been baptised by locals because pictures of the lovable bear feature everywhere (although it is so unfiltered Chinese that the real name, Restaurante Xiongzai, is only displayed in Mandarin). Don’t tell Disney!

Their speciality is Sichuan, so expect spicy, or ask them to hold the chilli! I always order bao; soft, pillowy steamed dumplings, stuffed with pork, lamb or cabbage. Soupy noodles are the star of the show here though - so hot and spicy your eyes will water! Just the thing for winter weather. My favourite dish is the cold noodles with peanuts and cucumber in a spicy sesame sauce though; it's really refreshing. There are also some very popular pulled pork sandwiches, Chinese style.

Avoid the lunch crowd by coming before 14:00, and to avoid the dinner crowd come before 20:00, when you’ll find mostly Chinese customers; a good sign!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

About this spot

Calle San Leonardo, 3

Spicy noodles:

4.50

+34

914669808

Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid

Sichuan Kitchen

My favorite Chinese restaurant

The restaurant doesn't rely on fancy decor to impress; instead, it wins you over with its food!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

La Alhambra

The real Moroccan

I first visited "La Alhambra" in Madrid with an Algerian friend of mine. This Middle-Eastern is so authentic it can be a intimidating at first...

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Andrea

Roberts

May 8, 2025

Casa Dani

A ‘tortilla’ unlike any other

"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Cesar

Gonzalez

May 8, 2025

Mercado de San Fernando

The alternative market

"Mercado de San Fernando" is one of my favorite markets in Madrid! I like it because it brings in a mixture of traditional establishments and modern spots.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Daniel

Ramirez-Escudero

May 8, 2025

Sala Equis

A former XXX movie theater

"Sala Equis" used to be the oldest XXX cinema in Madrid. Now it's a multifunctional cultural space, a completely new concept of cinema...

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
008-ticket
Cinema
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

by

Elena

Quintero

May 8, 2025

Darchini

Taste of India, western twist

Darchini offers a culinary journey that promises both authenticity and satisfaction, ensuring that every visit is very memorable.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

Bodegas El Maño

Savour the soul of Spain

The creamy interior of the croquetas, combined with a crispy shell, offer a taste of home-cooked perfection that could only be found in the heart of Spain.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

Cesar's Burgers

Indulge in burger brilliance

Cesar's Burgers redefines burger enjoyment with "La Campeona 2.0" and bacon cheese fries. And the warm atmosphere and the attentive service are a big plus.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

Jack's Library

A unique mixology experience

Despite its hidden location and exclusive ambiance, Jack's Library welcomes all who enter its hallowed halls with warmth and hospitality.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

La Coquette Blues Bar

Soul in a unique venue

With its intimate lighting, La Coquette creates a bohemian cave-like atmosphere with talented musicians that fill the room with beautiful melodies.

002-building
Art & culture
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

Menomale

Unveil a hidden Italian culinary gem

The Margherita at Menomale, with its simple yet perfect combination of fresh ingredients, is a testament to the art of pizza-making.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

El Rincón de la Habana

Mojitos perfected

The mojitos here are unparalleled; fresh mint, the perfect amount of sugar, and rum combine in harmony to create a drink that's both refreshing & powerful.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

May 8, 2025

Heading to Madrid?

243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

243 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

App Download Download our app

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Madrid

Our team loves Madrid

Get to know our other Spotters from Madrid

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
false
0
false
26
Filters