Decklan had a mid-cohort break so off to Spain we went. First stop: Madrid. We like to experience a city via their food, and Madrid certainly gave us plenty of opportunities to eat our way around town. From traditional Spanish tapas to international favorites, we sampled a little bit of everything.
Our Favorite Tapas Came from the Tiniest Bar
One of our favorite food experiences happened at perhaps the tiniest tapas bar we’ve ever stumbled upon. The owner (matched to his pic on the website) stood behind the bar, personally serving us our tapas. No elaborate presentation, no fancy dining room, just a tiny space with some seriously good bites.
Our top three recommendations all came from this one little spot: Tasca Barea
- Murcian Marinera: I was nervous to try this one…A small piece of crispy bread topped with Russian Salad (who knew? ) and an anchovy. It might sound like an odd combination, but the salty anchovy paired perfectly with the creamy salad and crunchy bread.
- Cheese: Sometimes simple is best. Delicious Spanish cheese that needed no elaborate preparation.
- Chorizo and Potato Sausages: A unique, rich combination filled with grease and tons of flavor.
Hands down recommend if you are near La Latina neighborhood. They also have a wine and cheese shop next door.
The Spanish Staples: Hits and Misses
Of course, we couldn’t visit Madrid without trying some of Spain’s most recognizable dishes.
Patatas Bravas: Fried potatoes served with a spicy sauce and an aioli. They’re everywhere, and while we tried them in multiple places, but we can take them or leave them.
Croquettes: Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and often filled with ham or cheese. Delightful but not life changing.
Jamón Sandwiches: Now these are worth seeking out, but find a place where they’re carving the ham fresh, right in front of you. Watching someone slice paper-thin pieces directly from the leg is part of the experience.
Shakshuka: This has nothing to do with Spain (actually from North Africa) but this is one of the best I’ve had. (Thank you to Costanza Cafe!) For anyone unfamiliar, shakshuka is a dish of eggs poached in a rich tomato sauce, often topped with cheese and served with bread for dipping. And really, the best part is sopping up every last bit of that tomato sauce with fresh bread.
And then there was more gelato.
