Every journey has a flavour, every place a taste. At The Slow Road believe you can’t really call yourself a cultural adventurer if you don’t embrace the local food and drink. In the first of our three-part Insider’s Guide to Madrid, we recommend a few of our favourite Madrid restaurants where you can do just that.
Where to Eat + Drink: Madrid Restaurants
El Mentidero de la Villa
The Mentidero (“Gossip Shop” in English) is a true fusion experience. The owner describes the cuisine as “modern Spanish with Japanese influence and a French cooking technique.” That may sound confusing, but the result is an achievement; each ingredient manages to retain its distinct flavour. Calle Almagro 20. +34 913 08 12 85
El Qüenco de Pepa
At Pepa’s, fresh produce is provided daily from the restaurateur’s own gardens in nearby Ávila. Each day Pepa surprises her guests with a different plate featuring the best of the season. Fresh and simple cuisine, appreciating the natural flavours of the produce. Don’t miss trying her tomatoes! Ubicado en la Calle Henri Dunant 21-23, 28036 Madrid. +34 913 45 10 84
Casa Benigna
Tiny and charming, only five or six tables are available—so call ahead! Wonderful service and Mediterranean cuisine, they make their own (olive) oils for cooking. +34 914133356 Calle Benigno Soto 9, 28002 Madrid.