Masala Darbar Madrid
Spice Up Your Life
I love to eat different types of food, but I would have to say my absolute favourite is Indian. Luckily, there is no shortage in Madrid. But the one place I always find myself at is Masala Darbar in the literary barrio of Las Letras.
Masala Darbar is situated in one of the loveliest neighbourhoods of Madrid and the beautiful decor fits in perfectly with its surroundings. It's such a pleasant space to spend a couple of hours enjoying a nice meal.
Although there is a modern feel to Masala Darbar, all of the classic favourites are served up here — Butter Chicken, Korma and Tikka Masala - with sides of basmati rice and fluffy naan. Nobody will feel left out as they make something for everyone, whether you prefer chicken, beef, lamb, fish or veggie. And everything is made to whatever spice level you can handle.
Indian food can be filling, but you shouldn't visit without trying one of their starters. The samosas and pakoras are crispy and so flavourful, and their onion bhaji is what I come here for every time. I love to have lunch at Masala Darbar on weekdays when they offer their fabulous menu del día. What is great about this one is that they change it regularly so I am always forced to try different things. I haven't been disappointed yet!
If you are craving something spicy and need to shake up your tastebuds, Masala Darbar is the place to be!
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid
El Pato Mudo – Madrid's finest rice dishes
El Pato Mudo prides itself on its traditional Spanish fare, offering dishes that are both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the taste buds.
By
Álvaro
Martínez Ponce
La Venencia – Madrid's timeless wine sanctuary
Not too far from the lively centre of Sol, on a street where the hustle and bustle of the city fades away, lies a truly unique gem: La Venencia.
By
Álvaro
Martínez Ponce
Churrería La Andaluza – Churros like a local!
Churrería La Andaluza is off the tourist track and serves mostly loyal locals. Buy some to go, or eat them in the adjoining café...
By
Andrea
Roberts
San Antonio de los Alemanes – Incredible Frescoes
Since 1615, San Antonio de los Alemanes has been the home of La Hermandad del Refugio, an association that helps those in need through meals and donations.
By
Catherine
Driver
Dim Sum Market – Where Traditional Meets Modern
Everything is so flavourful and tasty! It’s difficult not to always eat the same things I know and love so I try to get something different every time I go.
By
Catherine
Driver
Yatai Market – A Journey Through Asia
As you enter, rows of food stalls line this cool, industrial space, and stepping in here is like being transported to the bustling food markets of Asia.
By
Catherine
Driver
Teatros del Canal – Modern Performance at Its Best
This is one of the most diverse spaces in the city for arts and culture and it is evident that the folks here take a great deal of pride in their work.
By
Catherine
Driver
La Dama del Manzanares – Art With a View
Sunset is the perfect time to come and visit La Dama del Manzanares. Not only will you get a natural light show in the sky, but she comes alive as well.
By
Catherine
Driver
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.
By
Catherine
Driver
Olavide Bar de Libros – The Sweetest Bookstore
The books are the star of the show here, and Bar de Libros has a beautiful collection devoted to poetry, fiction, philosophy, and the classics.
By
Catherine
Driver
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.
By