Best Local Tapas Bars in Madrid!
John Harkness
Tapas - A brief summary:
Spain differs from America in the fact that they do not eat until later in the day, on average 9 p.m. to midnight (vs 6 - 7 p.m in America) Because of this, they have Tapas. Tapas is a social/eating activity in which the consumer "hops" from bar to bar eating small portions of snack foods on saucers. It encourages conversation to enhance the consumers' experience. But you don't want to be stuck with tourists! You want to meet the locals and make new friends! These tapas bars will help you to do that and also provide you with a wonderful experience of the Spanish culture.
Bodegas Ricla
Family ran since it's opening in 1867, this bar is a treasure trove of food and drink. It is even across the street from the oldest resturaunt in the world! We recommend the vermouth on tap, and the callos a la madrileƱa - which is a common stew in Spain. Make sure to ask about the home made meatballs because they are amazing, however they are not on the menu. Calle Cuchilleros, 6, 28005 Madrid, Spain. Open daily 1pm - 4pm, 7pm - 12pm
La Casa del Abuelo
This gorgeous dark wood and marble tavern is still run by the family that founded it in 1906. We recommend the gambas al ajillo - which is garlic shrimp and pair it with a house red. Calle de la Victoria, 12, 28012 Madrid, Spain. Open daily 12pm to 12am