The first thing you notice when you walk into La Carbonera is the delicious smell. Then take in the decoration - mirrors and lighting have been thoughtfully placed to create a sexy, intimate feel. Madrid has a few cheese bars, but La Carbonera offers an extra special experience to diners.
Their passionately-curated menu features cow, goat and sheep milk cheeses; choose the size of your selection and how many cheeses you want to try. The well-informed wait staff will quiz you on your tastes and help you decide on the right cheese. Listen to them because my dining partner and I went against a recommendation and discovered that some cheeses separate the boys from the men! We had one that was probably just for die-hard cheese fanatics, but we had been warned...
Not into cheese? They also have a menu of non-cheesy hot and cold dishes and leave room for dessert - also homemade and excellent. The wine list is interesting too - predominantly mainland Spanish but with a few wild cards thrown in. Take a chance with a wine from Menorca, Tenerife or even Morocco!
And really, what is better than cheese and wine? Why, cheeses and wines of course!
Find your way with 264 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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