Spanish bread used to be pretty dry and hard when I first came to Madrid long ago in the late '80s - things have long since changed beyond all recognition. The quality of bread available now is a much better reflection of the love the Spanish have for their daily loaf. Panifiesto is a fabulous example of the stunning artisanal bakers that have sprung up around the city in recent years.
This place is really no-frills - the bread is stacked up on shelves behind the counter, and beyond that, you can watch the bakers at work. The speciality is the sourdough made with organic flour, water, salt and nothing else. They have baguettes, spelt, rye, wholemeal and wheat bread as well as "pan gallego" which looks like a giant cottage loaf. So just 6 regular bakes to choose from, although they have a special most days - I love the raisin and walnut bread.
Get there early, because there is usually a queue and it's first come, first served - they will reserve a bread for you though, if you ask! Also while you’re in the neighbourhood check out Taberna Antonio Sánchez and Mercado de la Cebada.
Find your way with 258 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
This modern, award-winning building houses three immense floors of some of the Crown's most spectacular paintings, sculptures, tapestries and carriages.
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The museum is big and every inch of the Museo del Traje is enjoyable, but my favourite part is their magnificent display of traditional Spanish costumes.
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For 5 euros, paid at the ground-floor, I received a lift ticket which would carry me up 27 dizzying floors to enjoy some of the best views of the city.
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All of the classic favourites are served up here at Masala Darbar – Butter Chicken, Korma and Tikka Masala – with sides of basmati rice and fluffy naan.
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Escape the crowds of Madrid’s famous art museums and explore Serrería Belga, a repurposed sawmill turned vibrant art space with diverse exhibitions!
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Discover Barceló Market in Madrid for a lunch filled with global flavors! Stop by Latino Arepa for Venezuelan delights — arepas, empanadas, and cachapas!
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"Mercato Italiano" in Madrid is in the city's Little Italy in Rios Rosas. Great bruschetta and salads, and I recommend getting a wine, spritz or Campari...
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"Toma Café 2" in Madrid have not only created art out of coffee (I'm sipping a jasmine/white peach brew right now), I love their sandwiches & peacefulness.
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"Taverna Sacromonte" is an Andaluz tavern in Usera, Madrid. It feels village-y. Their tapas are great here -- I recommend going there and then for Chinese!
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Calle Redondilla (bottom of the square to the left) has maybe the oldest standing building in Madrid at Number 10 - it's from the 15th century,
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"Caramelos Paco" in Madrid sells sweets - its window display leaves no doubt about that. I love old shops like this, the opposites of one-stop shopping!
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"CaixaForum Madrid" is a good alternative to the nearby, more touristy Prado and Reina Sofia. It's beautiful, cool and quite small if you have limited time
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