Art lovers, you need to check out this diaphanous new(ish) gallery in southwest Madrid’s Carabanchel district. It’s the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track? The first time I went, I had the place to myself - quite a contrast from the tourist-saturated centre.
VETA is the brainchild of Fer Francés, a young gallerist who chose this 1,200m2 space in the working-class neighbourhood of Carabanchel to take advantage of low rents and the availability of large abandoned warehouses and factories. Property in Madrid has become so expensive; people are starting to look to less central areas such as Carabanchel to live and open small businesses. While still far from being gentrified, there are plenty of green shoots to be found there; cool restaurants, microbreweries and galleries ready to be discovered by the intrepid traveller.
I am still exploring, so watch this space for new spots!
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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