Lao Tou Madrid – For the Chinese food lovers

Restaurants

Cesar from Madrid

About me <strong>About me</strong> I was born in Madrid, but I've lived here and there due to my job in the tech indust...

""Lao Tou" in Madrid's Chinatown is arguably one of (if not) the most authentic Chinese restaurant you can find. Stop the search and go to Lao Tou."

For aficionados of authentic Chinese cuisine, the quest to find a genuine Chinese dining experience in Madrid can sometimes feel like a culinary odyssey. But all roads lead to Lao Tou, nestled in the heart of Usera, Madrid's vibrant Chinatown.

Lao Tou boasts an expansive menu that's a tribute to traditional Chinese flavors. A standout feature is their emphasis on fresh seafood. Whether it's the hake head soup brimming with noodles, the delicately flavored razor clams adorned with leek, or the sumptuous crabs, every dish promises a burst of authenticity. What's more, the servings are generously portioned yet surprisingly affordable. Many dishes come in half-portions, making it ideal for sharing and indulging in a broader range of flavors.

A word of caution for the uninitiated: some dishes pack a fiery punch! While the menu does indicate the spicier options, it's advisable to communicate your spice tolerance. The accommodating staff will adjust the heat to your preference, ensuring an enjoyable meal.

However, the essence of Lao Tou extends beyond just the food. The ambiance is unmistakably Chinese, from the Mandarin-speaking waitstaff to the bilingual menu. It's a slice of China in the heart of Madrid, offering an immersive dining experience that's as authentic as it gets.

About this spot

Calle Nicolás Sánchez, 35

Cockles:

€

8.30

+34

651121287

There’s so much more to discover

Discover more in Madrid

Plaza de Colón – Julia and a one-legged man

"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.

Art & culture

Relaxing

Andrea

Roberts

Monument to Victims of Terrorism – Lest we forget

The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.

Art & culture

Andrea

Roberts

Latino Arepa – Venezuelan in Barceló Market

Here they serve the famous Venezuelan favourite made of ground maize dough and stuffed with every filling you can imagine. And portions are very generous!

Restaurants

Snacks

Catherine

Driver

Quesería Cultivo – You're welcome cheese lovers

"Quesería Cultivo" is a cheese shop in Madrid where you can find a wide artisanal selection. My protip: do get some bread from two numbers down the street.

Shopping

Elena

Quintero

Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida – A Masterpiece

St. Anthony of Padua is one of Madrid’s finest examples of Neoclassical art. The interior is austere, but its ceiling is where the magic lies.

Art & culture

Catherine

Driver

Casa Dani – A ‘tortilla’ unlike any other

"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!

Restaurants

Snacks

Cesar

Gonzalez

Arallo – Asturian-Asian Fusion in Madrid's Heart

This harmonious blend is evident in every dish, from the petite, intricately crafted bites to the more substantial, hearty plates.

Restaurants

Cesar

Gonzalez

Los Angeles – Want to try a real paella?

Although it’s a Galician restaurant, they do an excellent paella mixta (chicken and seafood) and arroz negro, flavoured and coloured with squid ink.

Restaurants

Andrea

Roberts

Café del Art – Unique Coffee in La Latina

Café del Art is not only a great place for a liquid pick-me-up, but they also offer delicious snacks such as traditional tostadas or carrot cake.

Coffee & tea

Snacks

Catherine

Driver

El Viajero – Great views in the urban jungle

"El Viajero" is a romantic, beautiful, original, well decorated bar in la Latina, Madrid. I love the terrace. I find every year the decoration's improving.