It is practically impossible to dissociate tapas bars from Madrid society. Whether you’re a businessman or a teacher, it does not matter, just about everyone is treated the same way. There is something for everyone, even Madrileños of high society can not resist the nostalgic appeal of traditional taverns like Casa Amadeo and Sylkar. I invite you to delve into my selection (very personal) of the best tapas bars in Madrid. Do not hesitate to come here or by the way to nibble and discover another. You will find yours!
Bodega de la Ardosa
From the tortilla of corn to the madrilenes with the fried calamari passing by the croquettes of oxtail and the tempura with the aubergine … There are many choices with the Bodega of La Ardosa, a historic establishment of Madrid which exists for more half a century, as evidenced by the retro look that characterizes it. The service is efficient, the traditional atmosphere and quality tapas make the Bodega de la Ardosa a true local institution.
Address: Calle Colón, n ° 13
Melo’s
The Melo’s Bar is located in the Lavapiés district and preserves the authenticity of the past. His marketing technique still relies on word of mouth, we only pay in cash and the portions are more than generous. The wine list is reduced to white or red. Fortunately, prices have not changed. If you are looking for a real tapas experience then this is the place for you. The signature dish of Melo’s Bar is zapatilla: bread, pork and melted tetilla cheese, ideal for preparing for a night on the dance floor.
Address: Calle Ave María, n ° 44
Los Chuchis
More modern than the previous ones, Los Churchis is a bar of Lavapiés welcoming and with the neat details. You will feel at home here. Since the owner, who is also the chef, is English, you will find in the menu several dishes in the language of Shakespeare. Other interesting options are the English sausages with mustard or the dish of simmered autumnal meat. A menu is also available at noon.
Address: Calle Amparo, n ° 82
La Catapa
Leaning on the bar or comfortably seated in the dining room of this famous Madrid taberna, you will be able to taste excellent tapas made with seasonal products, dishes designed to enhance the quality ingredients used by the cooks. Typical salty bites to accompany a simple beer before dinner, fish or meat dishes to savor more quietly, almost anything can be ordered in whole or half portion.
Address: Calle Menorca, n ° 14
Docamar
Their slogan is “the best bravas since 1963 in Madrid”, so you’ll be sure to make the right choice when you order the queen of tapas in this bar. Although it is 25 minutes from the city center, it is always crowded (distance is not an obstacle when tapas are worth the trip). It is also possible to be tempted by the daily menu offering succulent seasonal proposals such as eggplant millefeuille, duck liver with salmorejo soup and arroz ciego with fish and seafood.
Address: Calle Alcalá, n ° 337
La Gabinetoca
The dim lights, chicken-wire dividers, and salvaged chairs are the first sign you’re not in a traditional tapas bar. The second might be that steak at the table next to you, which is literally engulfed in flames, or that Caesar, which comes with a pair of shears—you’ll be using them to chop the salad. Better suited to a sit-down tapas feast than to a quick stop on a longer crawl, La Gabinoteca feels like a destination restaurant. These tapas are as much about style as they are about substance—and they deliver in both categories. Gratinéed razor clams, enlivened with a kimchi cream, have been on the menu since day one—one taste, and you’ll understand why. Whoever your dining companion may be, rest assured he or she will be impressed.
Adress: Calle de Fernández de la Hoz, 53
Laredo
Taberna Laredo is conveniently located in Ibiza, the most famous area for tapas in Madrid. This is a particularly practical stop when you want to go on a pub tour. The property has a bar area and high tables for tapas while the upstairs is occupied by the restaurant. Crab croquettes, cheese eel, fresh cockles … the options on the menu are numerous and of excellent quality.
Address: Calle Doctor Castelo, n ° 30