I lived in Madrid several years ago. I was an American student studying Spanish Literature and I could hardly afford to eat at a nice Spanish restaurant-especially one in the capital city of Spain. Returning for the first time in years, I enthusiastically lined up quite a few places to try. The Gastroteca de Santiago was one of my favorites. It is from the owners of Tabernos which is close by and this bistro style restaurant is nestled in the Plaza de Santiago- just a hop, skip and a walk down a narrow cobblestone street to Calle Mayor. The windows look out into the plaza and the church across the way. We went in early August when not much is open but as it was our wedding anniversary we wanted something special. This restaurant did not disappoint as it brings the strong flavors of Spanish cooking into the 21st century. The service was amazing in that it was efficient but casual reminding me of many San Francisco Bistros. Although I speak Spanish, my husband does not and he still felt welcome. The food was exquisite looking and as it was very detailed in its presentation. The flavors were rich and still memorable to me over month later as I write this. The standouts were the Agnolotti pasta with clams and filled with with Mozarella, pesto and artichoke. The merluza (Hake) in a sesame sauce was cooked beautifully and not too heavy as opposed to the powerful lamb in a goat cheese crust that my husband devoured. Our very cool friendly server Fran (I believe this is her name) recommended a smooth wine from a boutique winery called La movida (Appropriate as the Movida Madrilena was a fantastic from what I hear, ha wish I could of been old enough!) Our dinner was on Monday as our anniversary fell on that day and I am so happy we spent it there. I was fortunate to have great conversation with Fran and the chef about life in Spain( they had just begun to experience the economic crisis that has hit their country) And if I could, I would of packed them, their food and taken them back home. My husband and I enjoyed having this spectacular meal and lots of great wine. Our walk back to the hotel was blissful as I felt I had finally come home again and my husband was taking photos of a city he never knew was so beautiful.The Spanish meal I always wanted to have as a 20 year old was worth waiting to have years later as the first time around I may not have had the money but this jewel of a bistro was not open yet either! It's worth a visit. I intend to go back there when I return and it's the only one I'll probably revisit as I don't get to Madrid often! read more