Article published on May 22, 2014 in LF Recommends
Madrid Insider Guides: top tips for making the most of Spain’s majestic capital city from the Lucas Fox team
La Mallorquina
“La Mallorquina is an atmospheric 19th century pastry shop and bar – perfect for early morning coffee and breakfast or an afternoon treat. This Madrid institution serves the best Torrijas (like “spanish” French toast) in the city, and is almost always packed! Avoid the counter and sit upstairs in the 1950s era salon, with smartly dressed waiters, for an authentic experience.”
— Julia Collins, May 2014
C/Mayor 2
28013 Madrid
+34 91 521 12 01
www.pastelerialamallorquina.es
Daily 09:00-21:15
Iroco
“For a light lunch or romantic dinner in the upmarket shopping district of Salamanca, I recommend the fashionable, cosmopolitan restaurant Iroco. During Madrid fashion week, this minimalist venue is where most of the models come for their lunch, and serves Mediterranean food with an oriental touch. The terrace (a rare commodity in this part of town!) is beautifully atmospheric in the evening with candles and fairylights.”
— Rod Jamieson, May 2014
C/Velázquez 18
28001 Madrid
+34 91 435 73 81
Taberna La Carmencita
“This creaky authentic Taberna has recently undergone an extensive renovation and once reopened, was featured in Vogue and Marie Claire España. The second oldest restaurant in Madrid, La Carmencita opened 160 years ago and has attained legendary status in the city. The restaurant is located near the market in Chueca, and the food is incredible.”
— Rod Jamieson, June 2014
C/Libertad 16
28004 Madrid
+34 91 531 09 11
Ramses
“A must visit restaurant when in Madrid. Ramses boasts a vibrant, trendy clientele and exudes laid back chic. Many of the city’s footballers hang out here and the aesthetic was designed by renowned interior designer Phillipe Starcke. I recommend the suckling pig or the delicious hake – definitely a glamorous venue for celebrating a special occasion.”
— Rod Jamieson, June 2014
Plaza de la Independencia 4
Madrid
+34 91 435 16 66
Plaza Santa Ana roof terrace above Hotel Me Madrid
“The Roof of this Melia hotel is one of my favourite terraces in all Madrid. Its bar is built into a rough stone wall and the outdoor terrace is equally beautiful in the day and at night. Great drinks and music with stunning panoramic views.”
— Rod Jamieson, June 2014
Plaza de Santa Ana 14
28012 Madrid
+34 902 144 440
The Terrace at La Tita Rivera
“This retro style burger bar set in Madrid’s trendy Chueca district boasts a hidden garden/terrace; a relaxing oasis in the heart of the busy capital. Don’t miss their sangria made “just like grandma’s”, refreshing and delicious!”
— Olivia Cerezo, June 2014
C/Perez Galdos 4
28032 Madrid
Pizzaiolo
“This old-school family run Italian restaurant serves the best lasagne in the city – hearty comfort food in a cosy setting!”
— Olivia Cerezo, June 2014
C/Hortaleza 84
28004 Madrid
+34 91 319 29 64
Gaudeamus Café
“Tucked away in the Lavapies district, on the roof terrace of an ancient university, lies the very hidden Gaudeamus Café. Be sure to walk up the (4!) flights of stairs to see the historic building in all its glory!”
— Julia Collins, June 2014
C/Tribulete 14
Edificio Escuelas Pias
+34 91 528 25 94
Melo’s Bar
“For a true Madrileno dining experience, head to Melo’s. This tiny tapas bar has been serving since ’76 and is constantly packed, with hoardes of locals flocking for the establishment’s infamous “Zapatilla” (“slipper”) sandwich (huge slices of thick bread with layers and layers of succulent Galician ham and cheese). Heaven!”
— Julia Collins, June 2014
C/Ave Maria 44
28012 Madrid
+34 91 527 50 54
El Lateral
“For a modern twist on a traditional classic, try El Lateral for the chic setting and tasty Patatas Bravas and Croquetas.”
— Olivia Cerezo, May 2014
