When I first spotted Madrid’s best cheese shop, Formaje, it looked like an Aladdin’s Cave of golden cheesy wonder; but wait for the aroma when you walk in - intoxicating.
The shop assistants are so helpful - every cheese has a story, and they let you try everything. It’s a great policy as I ended up taking four cheeses home with me on my first visit; my favourite was from Bavaria: organic cows’ milk coated with the fragrant dried petals of flowers picked in the fields where the cattle graze. Please try the amazing “queso de Josefa” too - you’ll thank me!
As well as a fabulous selection of European cheeses, they also sell crackers and olives and such. Shout out for the most delicious sourdough baguettes too - warning: they sell out quickly!
Stop by Plaza de Olavide and buy some wine in Vino y Compañía - you’ve got the making of a great lunch! Check out the ghostly Estación de Chamberi too - it’s just over the road! And as this really is one of my most beloved spots, maybe I’ll see you there!
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in Madrid
La Desayunería – Breakfast, American-Style
Their grilled cheese sandwiches, full of gooey cheese and bacon, with a side of fries, were just what I needed. However, pancakes are their specialty!
By
Catherine
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Pizza Posta – Argentinian veggie pizza? Try it!
"Pizza Posta" in Lavapies, Madrid, makes Argentinian pizza - thick, pillowy and crispy on the outside...
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La Merendona – Cakes homemade in Madrid
"La Merendona" is a small, welcoming Colombian-owned cafe/bakery with the most tempting window display & where the fresh homemade cakes are the stars!
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Andrea
Roberts
El Winnie (Xiongzai) – 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...
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Andrea
Roberts
Licores Cabello – Find your favourite tipple
They have a wide selection of wines to suit all pockets, and you can also discover some weirder flavours if your tastes run to the unique...
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Andrea
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Sala Canal Isabel II – Madrid's unique art space
"Sala Canal Isabel II" in Madrid used to be a water tower: now it's an uber-cool gallery used for media exhibitions. I love it, and not just because...
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Andrea
Roberts
Teatros del Canal – Modern Performance at its Best
This is one of the most diverse spaces in the city for arts and culture and it is evident that the folks here take a great deal of pride in their work.
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Catherine
Driver
MO de Movimiento – Innovative dining in Madrid
"Mo de Movimiento" in Madrid offers a new take on the restaurant business - sustainable organic ingredients, recycled materials and second opportunities!
By
Andrea
Roberts
CaixaForum Madrid – Beautiful art space
"CaixaForum Madrid" is a good alternative to the nearby, more touristy Prado and Reina Sofia. It's beautiful, cool and quite small if you have limited time
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Andrea
Roberts
Brutalista – Whispers of Tradition in Madrid
A standout feature is its nod to traditional Spanish cuisine with a selection of casquería (offal dishes) paying homage to age-old culinary traditions.
By
Cesar
Gonzalez
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