Madrid, the capital of Spain, is noted for the hundreds of tapas bars that line the streets. But as a visitor to this cosmopolitan city, how do you know if you’re in a tourist-trap tapas bar or in one that the locals frequent? Here is a primer to help you find the best tapas bars in Madrid.
Traditionally, tapas is a small plate of food given away free in many Spanish bars providing that you purchase an alcoholic drink. Although many bars still continue this tradition, more and more modern bars offer small plates of food for purchase known as a ración. For example, in many bars, you can order small sandwiches or canapés, providing you with a variety of Spanish delicacies to share and to sample.
A great way to experience a variety of tapas bars is to visit the Plaza de Santa Ana and the surrounding streets lining the square. Here you will find several cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants. It’s a great location to sit outside and people-watch while enjoying a glass of wine and a plate of Spanish food. The Plaza is a lively area and the perfect way to become immersed in the culture and vibrancy of the city while enjoying local cuisine.
Another area to find tapas bars that are frequented by the locals is the La Latina district. La Latina is an authentic neighborhood with medieval streets arranged around the La Cebada and La Paja squares. There are numerous tapas bars, pubs and taverns in this lively area where friends come to meet and enjoy food and drink. Additionally, every Sunday the streets in La Latina become home to the famous El Rastro open-air flea market that attracts tourists and locals alike.
There are hundreds of bars in Madrid and it doesn’t take much effort to find the ones frequented by the locals as those are the ones that will usually be the most crowded. Some bars will offer traditional tapas fare while others may specialize in more ambitious food such as anchovies, cod glands and pig ears. Part of the adventure is exploring these wonderful places and enjoying the Madrid way of life.
SOURCE:
http://www.gomadrid.com/rest/tapas-bars.html
http://catavino.net/tapas-wine-bars-madrid/
