La Mina opened in Madrid in 1949, and some years ago the first owner's grandson took it over and renovated it while remaining true to the original spirit of the place. It was looking a little tired; now it’s stunning! Shiny black and white tiles and bare brick walls, vermouth barrels and retro touches, as well as a beautiful terraza on the tree-lined street in front.
The very first word I learned in Madrid was "caña", which is a small glass of tap beer. I was so shy speaking Spanish when I first got here, but I managed that word - can-ya! It's such a good word to know in Madrid, especially in the summer, when what you really want is a nice cold beer! They have excellent cañas in La Mina, wine by the glass from a good selection, as well as the ubiquitous vermut.
Back in 1990 I used to come to La Mina for their speciality - grilled prawns. I was delighted to see after the re-opening that prawns are still on the menu, as well as pincho morunos (grilled marinated pork on a skewer), tostas and conserved seafood. So make sure you don’t miss this Madrid old-school classic!
Find your way with 241 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The "Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas" in Madrid is full of beautiful design items from the 15th to the 20th century. What a jewel of a museum!
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"Miel El Colmenero" in Madrid is a small, local, traditional business selling all sorts of honey, incl. orange blossoms, thyme... even avocado!
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"Taberna Antonio Sanchez" is one of the oldest, if not the oldest bar in Madrid. Come here to try some classic Madrileño dishes, it's a good place to start
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"Mercado de la Cebada" is one of Madrid's oldest food markets and it's currently having a renaissance. Old meets new and hip here. Catch it in its ascent!
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"La Carbonera" is an exceptional cheese bar in Madrid which places importance both on the interior design and the cheese selection. What a delicious smell!
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"Cervecería Alonso" is a wonderful traditional bar in Madrid that's off the tourist trail. Go with an appetite and share all the Spanish goodies!
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"La Cazorla Castelló" is one of the best Andalucian tapas (plus-sized!) & wine bar in Madrid, and my family's favourite restaurant for a celebration!
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"Casa de Diego" in Madrid is a specialty shop for fans and umbrellas. They make the fans themselves and have been doing so since the 1800s...
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"Casa Alvarez" serves cocido completo, Madrid's most typical dish. Eating it involves some ceremony & you should come discover it if only to tell the tale!
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"Casa Labra" is just off Plaza del Sol in Madrid and has remained almost unchanged since 1860. I like getting a vermut de grifo and a couple of croquetas.
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241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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