You know... here I am again writing late at night, which was my downfall last night. In my haste and longing for sleep, I failed to mention a few things.
Madrid city tip: Don't eat in Plaza Mayor. It's too expensive and commercial. Though it offers many options, you can find better off-the-beaten-path on a side-street and it will be plenty cheaper. Trust me, we learned the hard way. Plaza Mayor is a nice area to people-watch and have some sangria.
Side thought: Sushi in Madrid is expensive, but is a change of pace from tapas.
Another restaurant:
Casa Valino
Calle de Trujillos, 9
Madrid, Spain 28013
+34 915 47 30 58
Say hello to our waiter Juan Carlos here, who spoke no English (which forced us to practice our Spanish) but provided ample "chupitos" (shots) and joined us for a few. Our broken Spanish worked, and we made out with a few great tapas and plenty to drink. It was a nice local restaurant with plenty of locals, and usually that's a great sign.
Overheard: I once heard that you can eat the bull beat fresh after a bullfight. Not sure if it's true, but if you have time... try some bull... steaks?! A bullfight is a must-see, so make your way to Las Ventas and don't be afraid of blood. The locals love and embrace it. Bullfight tip: "Sombra," trust me. Or at least "Sol y sombra."
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Ok, ok... I know this is all late, but better late than never, right?
The first leg of our trip to Spain (back in June / July) was a few days in Madrid, the capital of Spain.
A must-do in Spain is to try the tapas (appetizers). And make sure to try the thinly sliced jamon, which is so delicate and heavenly, but so rich in flavor. You have to watch the guys slice this thing. It's an art!
Here are a few pictures of some of our eating adventures.
Here are a couple of suggestions of places to enjoy if you are ever in the city.
Cafe Viena
C/Luisa Fernanda, 23, 28008 Madrid, Spain
+ 34 915 59 46 45
Mercado de San Miguel
Plaza San Miguel, S/N, 28013 Madrid, Spain
+34 915 42 49 36
http://www.mercadodesanmiguel.es/