Julián López has been selling fabric in Spain for 70 years - I walked into their shop on Calle de la Bolsa for the first time intending to spend 5 minutes and left an hour later, carrying some new cushions and a pashmina! The quantity and variety of fabrics on display is mind-boggling; I could have stayed there all day honestly!
I got home and started looking at “patchwork” videos and Googling “sewing classes” - in short, I was inspired! Because they don’t just sell fabric, they have literally everything you would need to make a dress, a quilt, or to upholster that old armchair or make some drapes.
It’s a TARDIS-like Aladdin’s cave of colour and creativity for anyone, but also a great place to find some peculiarly Spanish items classified as “indumentaria”, which is a new word for me. It means all the special trimmings and items that make up traditional costumes.
It’s fascinating, so make sure to walk up the street and step inside when you are visiting nearby Casa Lope de Vega or Café Central.
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Plaza de Colón"in Madrid doesn't just feature Christopher Columbus' statue — find the towering, serene Julia and the statue of 'half-man' Blas de Lezo.
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Mercado de Maravillas Madrid is the largest and most emblematic multicultural market in the city! I recommend getting some Peruvian or Venezuelan dishes.
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From the beef sourced from the renowned Sierra de Guadarrama to seasonal delights like suckling lamb and tuna, there's something for everyone.
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Madrid's Outdoor Sculpture Park close to Calle Serrano is worth exploring: I felt as if I was in a gallery, even though I was next to a very busy road...
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Museo Cerralbo Madrid is a surprising little museum. It's very central, yet feels tucked away; it's absolutely fascinating and over-the-top and I love it
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The heart of their offerings is the legendary piri piri sauce - a spicy, tangy concoction that elevates the succulent grilled chicken to a whole new level.
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Whether you're in the mood for fluffy pancakes dripping in honey, a hearty avocado toast, or a classic eggs Benedict, Adorado Bar has you covered.
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This harmonious blend is evident in every dish, from the petite, intricately crafted bites to the more substantial, hearty plates.
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A standout feature is its nod to traditional Spanish cuisine with a selection of casquería (offal dishes) paying homage to age-old culinary traditions.
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Unlike the pan-fried versions found closeby, their shaobing is grilled to perfection, giving it a distinct texture & flavor that's both rustic and refined.
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The top dishes for me are the pancakes with sweet and savoury fillings (all gluten-free) and the Middle Eastern inspired offerings, especially the falafel.
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"Pizza Posta" in Lavapies, Madrid, makes Argentinian pizza - thick, pillowy and crispy on the outside...
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