Tapas in Madrid are the holy grail, the magic potions, the key to social life in the capital. They bring together all kinds of people around a bar, leaving aside problems, worries and everyday troubles. Madrid offers, to anyone willing to embrace it, a corner in every tavern where you can make friends and forget about routine. Taverns allow you to eat, repeat, chat and laugh together despite differences, in a true celebration of life.

Calamari sandwiches on Calle Mayor, cod at Casa Labra, croquettes at Santerra, snails, patatas bravas, grilled pork ear… Taverns serve dishes that carry more than a hundred years of accumulated experience. These are tapas that feed not only the body, but also the soul.

People from Madrid know very well what tapas are about and are part of the tavern atmosphere itself. Noise, laughter, beer and tapas create an essential snapshot of the city for anyone who wants to understand what Madrid really is.

Author: Madrid-based writer Manuela Manzana for Madrid Guide Tours