My beloved Mercado de la Cebada is having a Renaissance. Like many traditional markets in Madrid, the old fruit and veg stalls, butchers and fishmongers are enjoying a new lease of life alongside new businesses, which include small restaurants, craft stalls and speciality food sellers.
There's been a market here since 1868, and the current structure, which dates to 1958, was once a hub of the La Latina neighbourhood. When supermarkets came along, the old markets almost died, but they have been resurrected by young stall holders over the last few years.
Come to eat, drink, shop and explore the new stalls. Some of my favourites are Gelato Lab, an authentic artisanal Italian ice cream shop, La Malanga, which does a superb ceviche and Cuban sandwich; La Ria for its fresh seafood and finally, the amazing Parilla de la Cebada, a restaurant owned by the neighbouring butcher's. If you don't like what is on the 8 euro fixed price menu, they'll cook anything you buy at the butcher's for just 1.50 euros!
Inevitably, it will be a victim of its own success like all great places, but at the moment there is time to catch it in its ascent!
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
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"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
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"La Hummuseria" is a vegetarian restaurant in Madrid made for hummus fans like me! My favourite's the one with mushrooms. Protip: say yes to the egg...
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"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.
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"Sala de Despiece" Madrid defines itself as "a bar with a kitchen and a great tasting of raw materials". Once I was there I understood.
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"Bodega de la Ardosa" in Madrid is 'castizo' -- pure, genuine. This kind of bar is in danger of extinction, so enjoy it while it's still alive!
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"Bosco de Lobos" in Madrid is 'a bar that serves Italian food in a garden. It's a brunch and meeting place...' My favorite though, is their 'library'...
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243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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