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!