You can embrace Madrid's terraza culture almost any month of the year, and La Plaza de Olavide is the perfect spot to start. Spain delivers when it comes to a good climate; sitting outside and enjoying it is one of the many things that make living here so appealing.
Olavide is a round square that features lovely planting, plenty of benches, a cooling fountain and several playgrounds for children, with all the usual slides, swings and climbing frames. It is leafy, pedestrianised and completely circled by bars and restaurants with large popular terrazas.
It can be easy to spend a lot of money when you are on holiday, so I think cheap and cheerful places where you can spend a few hours without spending a fortune are always welcome. Classic sharing menus, such as a large mixed salad and a whole potato omelette, are a good deal. Add some "tinto con casera" (red wine and white lemonade) to the mix, and you'll be all set for lunchtime like a local in Spain's capital!
Find your way with 260 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
From the beef sourced from the renowned Sierra de Guadarrama to seasonal delights like suckling lamb and tuna, there's something for everyone.
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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.
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Mercado de Maravillas Madrid is the largest and most emblematic multicultural market in the city! I recommend getting some Peruvian or Venezuelan dishes.
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Madrid's Outdoor Sculpture Park close to Calle Serrano is worth exploring: I felt as if I was in a gallery, even though I was next to a very busy road...
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Museo Cerralbo Madrid is a surprising little museum. It's very central, yet feels tucked away; it's absolutely fascinating and over-the-top and I love it
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The heart of their offerings is the legendary piri piri sauce - a spicy, tangy concoction that elevates the succulent grilled chicken to a whole new level.
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Whether you're in the mood for fluffy pancakes dripping in honey, a hearty avocado toast, or a classic eggs Benedict, Adorado Bar has you covered.
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This harmonious blend is evident in every dish, from the petite, intricately crafted bites to the more substantial, hearty plates.
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Unlike the pan-fried versions found closeby, their shaobing is grilled to perfection, giving it a distinct texture & flavor that's both rustic and refined.
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A standout feature is its nod to traditional Spanish cuisine with a selection of casquería (offal dishes) paying homage to age-old culinary traditions.
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The top dishes for me are the pancakes with sweet and savoury fillings (all gluten-free) and the Middle Eastern inspired offerings, especially the falafel.
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"Pizza Posta" in Lavapies, Madrid, makes Argentinian pizza - thick, pillowy and crispy on the outside...
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260 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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