This bar-restaurant is probably my favorite traditional Spanish bar(= serving foods from most of the country's regions, great beer, complimentary tapas, full service bar, little casino machines, bathrooms in the deep, dark depths, waiters who've been working there for 10-40 years, futbol or news on the tv, innocuous barflys) in Madrid. Back when we lived in Huertas and it took us only 10 minutes on foot to get there. We dropped in for beer and tapas and the occasional lunch menu special at least 3 times a week!
I love this place for sooo many reasons. First of all, it's slightly off the beaten track. It's a stone's throw from Sol and Plaza Santa Ana and Lavapies, located just down the street from the Cines Ideal (foreign language art house cinema!). Basically, it's in the plaza of Tirso Molina. But it's away from the big crowds and it's usually filled with locals: the young, the older, the couples, the barflys, the families. You name it. It is dive-y, meaning, the decor is fairly non-descript, they use flourescent lighting (yikes!), the bathroom is clean but, I don't know slightly disconcerting like many of the bar bathrooms you find around the center of town. But, what I like, no, love, are the plants hanging from the ceiling over the bar!!! Yes, live, green, thriving for years plants!! To me it says that these guys care. And I really mean that. It's a lovely touch and it inspires confidence. And yes, most importantly, the food and the beverage: in a word, STELLAR. The cañas are perfect- go ahead and order a doble or a jarra otherwise your little beer will disappear in one swallow. And, they will serve you a different, delicious, complimentary tapa with each drink. One of the many reasons to love Spain! As for the larger portion tapas, raciones and entrees: order anything, it's all good! My husband and I always order the pulpo a la gallega (galician octopus) because it's incredibly tender and juicy and flavorful. I also love the cazon or bienmesabe (seasoned shark nuggets). And the mejillones a la vinagreta (marinated mussels), and the...well, it just goes on and on.
The price is more than right. You'll have to venture outside of the immediate city center for comparable prices. A hearty menu averages 9-11 euros. La Carpa rules. read more