A Peaceful Oasis in the Heart of Madrid – El Parque del Retiro I visited El Parque del Retiro on October 13, 2025, and it was an amazing experience. The weather was perfect — sunny, warm, and surrounded by the beautiful autumn colors of the trees. This park is truly a peaceful oasis in the center of Madrid, full of history, nature, and charm. During my visit, I explored the fountains, the Estanque Grande (the large lake), the elegant Palacio de Cristal, and even the Jardín Escondido, a lovely hidden garden full of calm and beauty. You can easily spend hours walking around, renting a bike or scooter, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. I brought a picnic with Iberian sandwiches, fresh fruits, and dessert — a perfect way to spend the afternoon. The entrance is free, and I recommend visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy the magical sunset views over the lake. The park’s location is excellent, close to the Puerta de Alcalá, making it easy to explore the nearby area as well. Whether you go with family, friends, or on your own, El Retiro is an unforgettable place to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Madrid.

A trip to Madrid is incomplete without a visit to the Retiro Park. It is so vast, peaceful and with surprises at every turn that you can spend hours just absorbing the different vibes of mother nature. We saw the beautiful birds, some rare foliage and a nice lake / water body where people could do rowing. There is a beautiful blend of nature with history as the palace and corridors of ancient sculptures adorn this park. Some cute cafes too and lots of enthusiastic visitors jogging or walking along, friends chatting on the benches and lovers too. Would highly recommend that you keep time for this place on your holiday to genuinely recharge your batteries.

This park is one of the prettiest spots in Madrid! Huge green spaces, beautiful trees, and so much to see. I like strolling by the Crystal Palace, through the big trees, and then stop by the big lake where I can rent a rowboat. Perfect for a walk, picnic, or just relaxing in the sun. Take in consideration, it can get busy on weekends, but there’s always a nice vibe with street performers and locals hanging out.bI love this gem of nature, so I always try my best to stay close to the park when I visit Madrid. If you’re visiting, stay nearby in Atocha station, east of Sol, or south of Salamnca neighborhoods.

A really beautiful park in the middle of the city easily accessible with the metro too. It's massive and there's a lot to explore, you can find lots of people but at the same time many spots in the park with more silence if you prefer that. Highly recommend going here.

Once part of a royal retreat in the 17th century, El Retiro Park is now Madrid’s green heart—perfect for walking, rowing on the lake, or relaxing under the shade of century-old trees. The Crystal Palace and Rose Garden are must-sees, especially at sunset. Free to enter and full of art, fountains, and street performers, it’s a serene escape from the city’s buzz and a place where locals and travelers blend beautifully with nature.

It’s a lovely and lively park. There were some excellent musicians playing throughout the park and lots of people but plenty of room to enjoy. We would have enjoyed a boat ride but didn’t have time. We were disappointed that the crystal palace is under renovation and covered.

Gorgeous park with a beautiful lake and fountain. You can rent a canoe to go around the lake, or you can just walk the beautiful grounds. They have a strip of food places that are very nice. It is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

You can tell they spared no expenses building this palace. The rooms seem to get more and more elaborate as you get deeper into the palace. Its a good experience to see a modern day palace. The lines were long during a weekday afternoon. There was a line for ticket holders and non-holders. I was part of a tour group that had skip the line so I can't comment on the wait. There are free lockers for you to store your backpack. The restrooms are only at the exit beside the gift shop. Warning that once you enter the gift shop or bathroom, you are not supposed to reenter the palace. There will be a guard stationed by the gift shop entrance to stop you from reentering. However, I have seen people ask the guard to use the restroom and be allowed to reenter. Just make sure you ask first.

What an incredible experience! Stunning!! I’m so glad I visited while in Madrid. Each room is luxurious and unique in its own way. I did the self-guided tour on a weekday and did not buy tickets in advance.

Stunning! Definitely book in advance. Even if you've been before - as we have 10 years ago - the added museum gallery is exceptional (it's jam-packed with incredible things - what a superb bonus that was!).

The Royal Palace of Madrid is absolutely stunning and one of the most memorable places I visited. The interior is magnificent—each room feels like stepping back in time, filled with beautiful details and history. Photos are allowed, which makes the visit even more enjoyable since you can capture the incredible architecture and decor. The staff were polite and helpful, and I appreciated that service dogs are allowed inside with proper documentation. I would recommend booking a tour and skipping the line—it saves time and makes the experience much smoother. The surrounding gardens are also lovely for a quiet walk after the visit. Truly an unforgettable experience in Madrid!

Honestly, I'd say the palace is slightly above average. History enthusiasts will likely be disappointed . It's a nice place to spend the day with kids and family, and it's particularly great for school kids to learn about history in a hands-on way.

The Royal Palace of Madrid is magnificent and awe-inspiring. Its lavish rooms, grand staircases, and elegant decorations leave you speechless. The atmosphere transports you to another era, making you feel part of royal history. The gardens are also fantastic for a peaceful stroll. A unique visit that is definitely worth experiencing!

Royal Place is beautiful and offers a great learning experience, but it can be very crowded, so moving through is slow. The visit itself is fairly quick, but the stunning architecture and interesting exhibits make it worthwhile.

This former hospital is a sprawling museum over for floors currently the fourth and third floors are not exhibiting any artwork and the garden gardens are undergoing renovations. This beautiful building has a modern extension at the front which is brilliant. The works inside are representative of the Spanishhistory of the modern era. There are many documents and magazine, examples, architectural, designs, and posters of the war era. There are Picasso’s works by Dali Miro and the Cubist. It is an impressive collection and well attended.

The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is an absolute must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in Spain’s modern artistic legacy. Seeing *Guernica* in person is a truly moving experience — powerful, haunting, and unforgettable. It’s a privilege to stand before not just Picasso’s masterpiece but also works by Dalí, Miró, and other icons of 20th-century art. You’ll want to budget at least two hours, though it’s easy to spend the entire day exploring the galleries and temporary exhibitions. We visited on Spain’s National Day, so entrance was free; there was a queue in the morning, but it moved quickly. Note: bags and liquids aren’t allowed inside, so bring a €1 coin for the lockers. Overall, a beautifully curated museum that rewards both casual visitors and serious art enthusiasts alike.

The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, inaugurated in 1992, is Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art, housed in a former hospital redesigned by architect Antonio Fernández Alba. Its collection features masterpieces by Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, including Picasso’s legendary Guernica. The modern glass elevators and spacious galleries create a perfect setting for contemporary art. Entry is free on certain evenings, making it a must-see for art lovers in Madrid.

I went here primarily to see Guernica, a work by Picasso the I learned about 45+ years ago in a high school English class. Given the context, understanding the symbolism, message, and promotion of liberty and free speech made seeing this masterpiece in person powerful. I loved how it was displayed, and was glad to arrive early with few other people in the room. To see other works by Dali, Delaunay and many others was a bonus for me. The museum is large and spacious and I never felt crowded or rushed.

Very valuable place and a must visit in Madrid. Amazing collection of Picasso and Dali can be found here as well as other spanish and latino artists. Dont forget to go to terrace as well as they have dew modern arts and you can enjoy the view of Madrid as well

An amazing gallery, which concentrates on spanish art, but with some very interesting and valuable international links too. I went on a sunday in the free hour 12:30-14:15 for which i would recommend being there 30 minute earlier since obviously many people do this🤭. Still despite the long queue, people were getting in pretty quickly. When in, the permanent paintings, distributed in the halls by style (cubism, post cubism, surrealism, etc.) were on the second floor (3rd and 4th floor were temporarily closed). On the first floor there was an amazing exhibit by Maruja Mallo (i’ll post photos of some of her paintings).

We happened to walk across the neighborhood, and my wife said that after their official ticket time that around 7 pm, then there is a free entry before they close at 9 pm. I suppose this is only on weekends. I'm not sure on weekdays. So we decided to take the opportunity and we waited in line ( not that long and good thing everybody seated yet in line along those short walls in front of entrance). Once ur inside the museum is pretty big with 4 stories. Currently, the 3rd floor is closed. 1st floor and 4th floor has temporary exhibition, so i believe they often update new one. But the main highlight was Pablo Picasso, Guernica' famous painting at 2nd floor room no.205. You can also find Dali painting as well. Most of the people are on the 2nd floor. Rest its pretty much contemporary arts and paintings, which my wife is not a big fan of it. At some points, yes, it is hard to understand and appreciate the beauty, although the 19th/20th century artists do express themselves. Overall, it was good to see at least one famous Picasso painting. The building layout is a bit confusing, though. Since it was free, it was not bad. Spend 1 and half.

Amazing place to shop and stay. Such a lively place.

Beautiful street. Even CR7 Pestana Hotel is there and Real Madrid shop and Atletick Madrid as well. Night life.

A wide street lined with beautiful buildings and many shops. On Sunday, we discovered a traditional festival featuring different local events, and even sheep walking along the street.

I m in love in Madrid. The city that never sleeps..Gran Via is beautiful

The place to be for shopping (major Spanish brands that take full buildings!) the place to be for theatre and nice hotels, the place to be for cafes and parallel streets that are filled with small local brands and picturesque f&b outlets .. I love it !

Must walk when in Madrid. Besides numerous stores, the architecture is amazing.

One of my favorite places to visit in Madrid

Comparatively a tiny place but you can see a real Egypt temple in close distance and free of charge! There are still crafting on the wall though the color were all faded. Monday closed and must book free trip (30 min, enough time for visit) on the website in advance.

Been looking forward to seeing this Egyptian Temple for a long time, as it is historically very interesting and at a great location in a park overlooking the valley and Palace, etc. Great for families, dog walking, sunsets. Peaceful. I was very surprised to see NO WATER in the reflecting pool that surrounds it. The Guard on duty told me they had a leak in the bottom that dripped onto vehicles in a car lot below it, so they indefinitely shut the water off and it’s now permanently dry. Used to be wonderful for late-day water-reflecting sunsets, but no more.

visited this temple quite late at night, and even then it was incredibly beautiful. I definitely want to come back during the daytime as well. The place also had a stunning view from where I stood.

Incredible location for sunset in Madrid. Temple itself has cool story which was gifted to King from Egypt but view during sunset is amazing. You can enjoy a cup of drink, families, couples and dogs around you will make your evening great. Also once you are with your drink and sunset, walk down through the Royal Palace (10mins) which is mostly crowded with tourist(easy to follow without map) and take some photos there before sun fully sets as well. From that moment, there are many great small cafes and bistros that you can enjoy some bites while crowd passes by and feel the city with lively buzz

Really beautiful area to relax. If you are wanting to view the inside of the temple, be sure to make an appointment! It is free but tours are very limited! Still nice to see from the outside though.

This temple is one of the most overrated places I've seen. There’s barely any information around. Apparently, there used to be reflecting pools on both sides, but they're gone now. I had to look it up online because it didn’t feel like a historical site at all. As far as I can tell, only a small part of it is original — it’s been heavily restored. I think its fame is mostly due to a bandwagon effect. The surrounding park is much nicer — ideal for walking and relaxing. To enter, you have to scan the QR code shown in the picture and wait about 20 minutes. They only allow 15 people inside at a time. I didn’t go in, and honestly, I wasn’t that curious.

Free entry but need to book your tickets in advance! Wasn’t able to get in to see whatever’s inside the small temple, didn’t see too many visitors there too but tickets were all unavailable at least for the next 2 days. Interesting there was a time when Egypt gifted other countries with temples for their help in conservation work…maybe a few well chiselled stones didnt worth that much…

An incredible collection of art. Prefer wandering the halls here over some of the other more notable museums in Madrid. That said, it can be a little overwhelming in scope/size, with floor after floor, hall after all. But it is fairly well organized and easy to navigate. There is also a small cafeteria should you get in the mood for a snack or coffee. Definitely worth the cost of admission, and definitely worth your time.

Museum is great, big would definitely recommend to dedicate at least 4 hours to do it calmly and with intention. They have pieces from almost all eras and movements and really liked the route as well. Mondays it’s free so recommend to take advantage of that!! Audio guide was okay, but they focus mainly on a piece at each room and give you a lot of info about it but I was hopping it would be about all pieces or at least more of the overall context or the movement those pieces share, can be better tbh

Medium to large size without clear direction signs. If you have a sense of direction you’ll find your way around, but not easy to make a path from start to finish without more than once doubling back. The timed entry is usually for a ground floor temporary exhibitions, but the best way to see all is to start from the top and work your way down, thus in chronological order of period. But, all that aside, wow, what a collection of masterpieces! Highly recommended. Budget 3-4 hrs to see all properly. Don’t skip any room, as you might miss a jewel amongst works of lesser renown, albeit still tremendously valuable and relevant.

Very good museum that covers 500-600 years of art. It’s relatively small and easy to navigate. The collection holds a wide variety of paintings from early Italian church art through landscape painters, Impressionists, Fauves to Picasso and more contemporary artists.

A fantastic collection, brilliantly laid out in a beautiful building. The top floor held the older works, with lots of beautiful religious paintings, some dating back to the 10th century. The first floor contained the more modern works, from around the mid 19th century onwards, encompassing Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, Fauvism, Surrealism and more, through Pop-Art, right up to works from present day. The galleries were very well laid out, with a chronological nature to each room - in many cases, it helped connect the dots between the different movements, and bevause of the depth of the collection, in cases like work from Miro or Kandinsky, you could see the artist's style adapting and developing over the years. The ground floor holds the loaned collection from the daughter of the original donor, and contains even more treasures, especially from the Impressionists, with treats from Sisley and Pizarro, and some spectacular Pop-Art period works from the likes of O'Keefe.

The Museum has lots of paintings and it takes a loot of time to go through them, there are some magnificent paintings to check out. The Museum is a definitely worth a visit if you are into art!

My partner who is hearing impaired found it very difficult to hear the audio guide that we purchased. The staff pulled out all stops to ensure my partner could hear the guide. Eventually they suggested that he listen to the guide from the web version of the audio on his phone and direct the audio through Bluetooth to his hearing aids. The audio was perfect and we both thoroughly enjoyed our 3 hours at the museum. Thank you to the lovely team member who helped out with the audio!

I LOVE this market! It’s a bit touristy, but I love that you can find everything here. The seafood spot and the tapas place are definitely the most popular in my opinion. There’s so much to see and eat, I even got percebes here! Definitely a place worth coming back to.

What's the point t of all that lovely fresh food if you can barely squeeze through anywhere let alone eat your food comfortably? I tried twice in two days. Finally on day 2 I grabbed a fresh kiwi drink and got the hell out of there. Visited these places in other cities, great, here, ridiculously too small.

Mercado de San Miguel is an absolute food lover’s paradise and one of Madrid’s most vibrant culinary landmarks. Housed in a beautifully restored iron structure, the market combines traditional Spanish charm with a modern, bustling atmosphere. Every stall offers something tempting — from fresh oysters and Iberian ham to gourmet tapas, cheeses, pastries, and wines. It’s the perfect place to wander, taste, and share small bites while soaking in the energy of the crowd. The quality of the food is consistently excellent, and the variety makes it easy to build your own tapas adventure. Whether you’re stopping for a quick snack or spending a leisurely afternoon trying everything, Mercado de San Miguel delivers a full sensory experience — delicious flavors, lively ambiance, and a touch of history. A must-visit in Madrid for anyone who loves authentic, elevated Spanish cuisine.

Nice modern high end Mercado to get tapas. You can find things in here that are non-traditional. Lots of fresh flavours but there are also some places where the food looks a bit tired. It’s not a large Mercado so counter space is at a premium. The counters on the inside are packed and you will get jostled. It may be better to get some of the space on the outer window area. One other downside is the prices are more expensive than other mercados or tapas bars. But you are paying for the all in one convenience.

Tons of food options, impossible to find a seat. Was cool to try some Spanish crackers with random fish things on them. They were good…. The crackers were whatever but I guess that’s not the point. I sat outside on the ground. Don’t get why this place is on everyone’s rec list, go to a less known mercado!

They say this is a tourist trap but honestly, I don’t care. It’s a great market with everything. The food is beautifully laid out and they taste good. My favorites are definitely rhe anchovy and sardine tapas from the same shop. 2.50 EUR for each, cheapest in the market AND most delicious!

Amazing choice of food. A little expansive so check prices before buying your food. Very busy so difficult to get seating but well worth the experience and will definitely go back. The steak was amazing and the Jamon was really good although the portion was really big.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We went to the Bernabéu Stadium, and it was such an amazing experience! Super lively and very clean. Getting in was quick with almost no wait (we arrived about 15 minutes after it started). The stairs were a bit of a climb, but thankfully there are escalators! Overall, a really fun and memorable experience — definitely worth visiting!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 “Santiago Bernabéu – the temple where dreams come true… and the hopes of visiting teams quietly die.” Great stadium: huge, modern, shines like a spaceship. The atmosphere is loud enough to crush the self-esteem of any away team within ten minutes. Security is friendly but has the look of people who’ve seen everything – including fans who mentally switched to airplane mode after the third goal. Food? Typical stadium stuff: expensive, but at least the beer tastes like hope. Seats? Usually great – unless you get the guy who celebrates every goal like he just won the lottery. Conclusion: A beautiful stadium. Perfect if you love Real… or bring a touch of masochism as an away fan.

One of the best stadiums in the world! The tour was incredibly detailed and well-organized. it took around 2–3 hours to complete, and every minute was worth it. Truly one of the best experiences I hav ever had!

Took the bernabue tour which cost 35 euros per person and felt like it could’ve been cheaper. The stadium was having an event so they didn’t let us stay inside past 10 minutes or so. The whole tour is an immersive experience, the history is well elaborated so even someone who isn’t a fan can connect and appreciate the journey that the team has had. The architecture is appreciative. An entire section is also dedicated to real madrid city.

As a American coming here, it was truly a great experience! The Spain crowd was curious and interested. The Stadium really gave off that “big” feeling being that there were so many seats taken. For a NFL international game I feel like it could’ve been more functional getting in and out of the game, transportation, etc. but I guess there isn’t much you can do when you have 80,000 trying to cram in the small metro. Experience was great would highly recommend!

Traveled to Madrid for as my favorite football team were playing the Dolphins on my birthday. We lost, unfortunately. However, the stadium was beautiful and packed. Everyone were so nice. Not sure when I would be able to get back, but I enjoyed my time there.

Amazing stadium design let down by the organisation. Visited for the NFL game and there was no organisation or direction for fans arriving. Police moving through on horseback using aggression to form queues. The food and drink we got was reasonably priced for a stadium but they had either sold out or not stocked any hot food before kick off. Ended up we only got crisps that cost €5

Wanted to eat here simply because it's the oldest running restaurant. I'd say if you haven't tried it, you can still go for it since it has that novelty factor of being the oldest restaurant. But in terms of the food, it was so so. The cochinillo was tough. The lechazo was a bit better, but it was still quote dry. The calamares was not that crisp nor was it anything exceptional. I liked the fact that you can order rice in this establishment. The artichokes were just okay. Although we really enjoyed the garlic soup! 💕 We enjoyed the non alcoholic pina colladas and the dessert options! My sister said the cheesecake is really good, while I enjoyed the tiramisu. My aunt had the flan and she liked it as well. My suggestion is if you do want to make a stop here, don't order too much as it isn't as spectacular as you may think.

Had to stop by this infamous restaurant for a bite. Tried booking online but had no luck, so we decided to try walking in. Lucky us as we got a table outside. Service from the team were excellent. They were patient and friendly. We ordered their suckling pig and roast lamb as well as their famous Grandma’s Cheesecake. The suckling pig was juicy moist with crispy skin. Very yummy. As it’s suckling pig, be prepared for a small portion, mine was probably about 3 bites. Their roast lamb was great too but not super outstanding. A kind of jus would have made a big difference. Their cheesecake….OMG!!! The best we have ever had!!! Velvety and soft to the point of almost oozing. Wish we could pack it home with us. The highlight was being able to check out their oven where the suckling pigs are roasted and their dungeon dining area.

I truly had such a memorable experience with my mom here. What really captivated us was the fact that it’s marked in the Guinness Book of Records for the earliest restaurant in the world! I specifically have to highlight the service because they were incredible! Julian, Jose, and Adrian were absolutely wonderful! My mom and I ordered the Passion Martini and Turron Cocktail because they were amazing! We also ordered the Mango, Arugula, and Sheimp salad which we LOVED as well as the Filet Mignon. At the end of our meal, Julian served us the Basque Cheesecake and it was truly OUT OF THIS WORLD. I’ve never had a cheesecake like it and it was definitely the best cheesecake ive ever had. It was SO creamy and truly unforgettable.

Dining at Botín in Madrid was an unforgettable experience. The restaurant’s historic charm and warm atmosphere immediately set the tone for a special meal. Known as the world’s oldest restaurant, it beautifully combines tradition with genuine Spanish hospitality. The roast suckling pig and lamb, cooked in the centuries-old wood-fired oven, were absolutely exceptional. Each bite was tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The house wine complemented the meal wonderfully, enhancing the rich, authentic flavors. The staff were friendly, attentive, and clearly proud of the restaurant’s heritage. We were especially thrilled to sit at the same table where, according to history, Ernest Hemingway once dined. It added a magical, literary touch to an already remarkable evening. I loved how every detail reflected true Spanish culture and culinary excellence. It’s a place where history meets outstanding food in the best possible way. I would highly recommend Botín to anyone visiting Madrid who wants a truly delicious and memorable dining experience.

A Perfect Birthday at El Botín – A Must-Visit in Madrid! I visited El Botín in Madrid on October 14, 2025, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! From the very beginning, we were warmly welcomed by an amazing host who was courteous, friendly, and attentive. He checked our reservation and guided us to our table with genuine hospitality. Our server was exceptional — knowledgeable, kind, and passionate about the menu. He recommended the best dishes and wine pairings, and every suggestion was spot on. We started with Ensalada Botín and Morcillas de Burgos as appetizers — both were incredibly fresh, the morcillas perfectly cooked with a crunchy skin, not greasy at all, and full of flavor. For the main course, we had the famous Cochinillo Asado — tender, juicy, and absolutely delicious. To finish, we enjoyed the Tarta “Botín” (Bizcocho y crema) — OMG, what a dessert! The cream was light, smooth, and perfectly balanced. Everything was amazing, and I felt truly special celebrating my birthday there. The service, the atmosphere, and the food all exceeded my expectations. If you’re visiting Madrid, Spain, you simply cannot miss this authentic and historic restaurant — the oldest in the world! Congratulations to the entire team for their outstanding customer service and delicious cuisine.

5 stars hands down. You MUST try their famous traditional Spanish cuisine, particularly the famous roast suckling pig or cochinillo. Blown away by the food, top notch service and ambiance of the place. Botin is the oldest restaurant in the world (300 years). Their cheesecake is also a MUST try! So worth it dining at Botin.

Overall great experience to be in the oldest running restaurant. We made a reservation well in advance before our trip to Madrid. We really enjoyed the « morcillas » and the « cochinillo ». Very simple dishes, but you can see the quality of the food. For dessert we got the « Crema Catalana », which was good. It is their own take of Creme Brule I guess. Service was OK. I would have loved the waiter to tell us a bit about the history of the place but he was not really in the mood. Good experience but wouldnt really return. Pricing wise is a bit on the expensive side.

DiverXO is chaos, theatre, and culinary wizardry—executed near flawlessly. By luck we managed to get a booking, not knowing what to expect. It’s not just dinner—it’s a blend of flavors, textures, and visual storytelling. The mix of Asia with local ingredients felt so natural that we wondered if we were actually back home in Singapore. The dishes pushed boundaries, yet somehow seemed to all work out. Special shout-out to the service team, who somehow keep pace with synchronized delivery while staying warm and witty. Not a traditional fine dining experience by any stretch. But if you’re looking for something unforgettable, DiverXO is a must.

The experience was a performance … not sure how else to represent it. Each dish encapsulated a story delivered with passion and precision. Each bite was curated and delicious. The interpretations of dishes, unique. The four hours flew by and, at the end, I found myself wishing it wasn’t over.

The presentation of the courses, atmosphere, and vibe were great, but the courses were mostly sauces and raw food. My husband and I have been to many Michelin-starred restaurants, and we appreciate a nice combination of flavors, but this one was just okay. I had also mentioned my dietary restrictions to the restaurant beforehand—one of them being a sensitivity to spiciness—yet almost all of the dishes had a bit of heat to them.

We visited DiverXO for a 50th birthday. It was certainly one of the best culinary experience we ever had. The service was amazing. Our main host Maria was amazing: very attentive, friendly and helpful! The food was incredible. Nothing disappointed us. We had 3 regular menu and one adapted because to crustaceans and the versions were wonderful, sometimes looked even better than the regular menu. We didn't do the pairing. Wine options go from about €120 up and there are quite a few under 220€. It's not cheap but we were really happy with what we received. We also finished with a coffee that was really good. We were able to meet with the chef and the kitchen team, which was also a plus. All around, an amazing experience. I might not have the opportunity to repeat but I would 100% recommend to all foodies of the world!

I visited DiverXO with my husband for our anniversary, and from the moment we walked in the staff made us feel genuinely welcome. The atmosphere is unlike many other Michelin-starred establishments. It carries a spunky flair, with bold decorations and vibrant colors that bring energy to the dining room. Even with this playful approach, the restaurant maintains a sense of intimacy for its guests and the service remains polished and professional throughout. The food was nothing short of extraordinary. My background as an Asian diner who had been missing those flavors while traveling in Spain may have amplified the experience, but that does not take away from the remarkable execution. DiverXO brings together Spanish and Asian influences in a way that feels inventive, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Every course delivered complexity and creativity without ever feeling pretentious. Out of the many dishes, there was only one that did not fully win me over, which is impressive considering the adventurous scope of the menu. Overall, DiverXO offered one of the finest dining experiences I have had. The combination of warm hospitality, playful energy, and world-class food makes it a destination worth celebrating special moments.

This Michelin 3 star is an anomaly. The guide is usually renowned for only awarding 3 stars when all elements of a meal combine to become a pinnacle dining experience. This is not the case at DiverXO. Firstly you are greeted with some fairly exotic furnishings and sculptures that prepare you mentally for something exciting and unique. Seats are strangely low at the table, placing diners in chairs that outsize them and make them feel small and diminished in importance, as well as slightly awkward. The sommelier arrives and offers a pre dinner drink. We suggest a champagne and are offered 4 options at minimum 400Euro. On further inspection of the wine list we were guided to many other bottles of even higher cost although eventually we found a vintage 2016 blanc de blanc. When the Champagne was brought, the cork had been removed out of our view. The wine was oxidized and retained no bubbles. When we rejected the wine, we were informed that it is meant to taste that way! We ordered a non vintage that had satisfying bubbles but again not opened in our presence. Food began to appear with minimal explanation of how the menu might proceed and no further offers of wine or the wine pairing we had explained we wished to enjoy. When we asked if we could continue to have matched wines, the presumed maître dé (he didn't introduce himself) told us in a dismissive and rude manner, that we would not enjoy wine tastings because they all taste like the champagne we rejected. We persevered and were provide pairings that were mostly wines from all over the world, with only one Spanish wine. Penfolds Grange 2007 was served with a Corivin and was not decanted. The sediment was a disgrace for such a wonderful wine. (See photo) The service was mostly polite and happy but the sommelier and his supervisor never got over their earlier pique. The food started brilliantly, however there were some misses with later courses not really being of high standard. The poor delicious sweet lobster had to be rescued from some very unpleasant and overpowering spices. We all laughed at the behavior of the wine service and their lack of knowledge. We were told that drinking red wine with sediment is preferred! I recommend spending your money elsewhere. Michelin will come to their senses soon and should downgrade this to a one star perhaps.

What an unforgettable culinary experience— from the service, to the artworks telling the story of the dishes, to the actual food that have been so well thought out and creatively prepared… Perhaps the only thing i didnt vibe with was the interiors, as it is quite too eccentric for my style. But overall a 5/5 experience , an explosion of flavors ! Gracias to the whole team!!

So mercado de la Paz is our last spot in Madrid before we catch a night train to Barcelona. We're mulling whether to grab something to eat from inside the market or find a sit down spot nearby with outdoor seating. This place came up in both ChatGPT and Gemini as a "do not miss", "quintisential" experience to have in the mercado de la paz neighbourhood... So walk upto the waiter and ask for a place for 2..... Thankfully for us, a couple had just got done and was vacating their space so we were accomodated there, otherwise even at 6.45 PM which is very early for dinner in Madrid, the place was completely full We heard that this place was famous for its spanish omlettes and had options that satisfied both factions of the debate "con/sin cebolla"... Being firmly on the "con cebolla" side of the debate, we got the with onions option or course Their omlettes are a bit on the runner side... But that was fine by us... We got a "half omlette" which was a huge portion and in hindsight a quarter (also on the menu) would have done just fine too 😅😅 the tortilla was great ... I am still more partial to the one I make at home but I will give these guys the silver medal 😝 We also got a plate of croquettes with tomato mozzarella which had a very consistent and smooth filling and a crunchy exterior. Very balanced and great as bar food.... Service was quick and prompt... the place is clearly a local favorite and that's always a strong stamp of approval that merits a visit

What a great place to have a quick snack. Located in the Mercado La Paz, Casa Dani is know for their torta. Thanks to #jamesblick we found it. He was correct. It is amazing. We had the torta and croquettas, with of course, a beer and a vermouth. The torta was filled with potatoes, ham and eggs. Cooked to perfection. I thought it would be mushy, but it was not. I really loved it. As for the croquettas (jamon), they were perfection. Would just go back? Absolutely 💯.

Have to say, Phil was damn right about this place. Our first time, didn’t know what to expect, what to order, we just asked them to recommend what they wanted us to experience and just had to be sure it was enough for 2. Everything suggested and served were amazing! From their Spanish omelette, to their sous vide artichoke, lamb chops and even their homemade cheesecake! Definitely a must visit when in Madrid.

Came here three time during my three-day stay in Madrid. Also found out an interesting Phil’s show from the comment. Service was excellent, always with a big smile. I’d suggest to come in early to avoid the queue during lunch. If the one in the market is busy, you can go out and turn right where there’s another Dani on the Calle Lagasca street. Tips: Half-portion is enough for one person. Bread tastes better at noon and a bit dry at dinner. 🥇tortilla española: amazing taste with onions, a must try. 🥇Grilled Cuttlefish: goes great with salad. 🥇Oxtail: tender enough to fall off the bone Croquette: similar to anywhere else Jamon iberico: why not since you’re already here Pig’s ear: crunchy but it’s not fully cooked with some redness

Was here for lunch. Located in the midst of the market. The restaurant was a little cramped but it was totally worth it. We got recommendations from the server and he did a great job! Every single dish introduced was delicious! And to seal the deal was the cheese cake! A must have when visiting! Servers were all busy but always ready to help with a smile.

Really good tortilla and "Flor de alcachofra”, and the cheesecake! Also, it was the cheapest our meal in Madrid. We were for lunch on weekday, little people, no waiting at all.

The hype is justified. Truly the most delicious tortilla con cebolla I’ve had. I can only dream of learning the technique in achieving a tortilla with a creamy center and a well-cooked exterior. Truly worth a visit and several visits thereafter.

Great wine and dining experience! We did the food and wine pairing and it was fantastic! The ambiance is beautiful and service was great! When our time ran out for the tasting they moved us to cocktail bar downstairs which was also super nice! We also got drinks there and they were a whole experience! 10/10 recommend! Make sure you make reservations!

Such a wonderful experience! Great food, great cocktails and great service. I have to give them a shout out as it’s the first time I’ve truly had craft cocktails and I’ve been in Europe since 9/5, bouncing between countries. Now ,for the facts. There’s a stuffy restaurant upstairs and an awesome speakeasy downstairs where you can get great cocktails and food. Granted it’s a smaller menu than what’s offered upstairs, but was fine on my solo visit. They also have a private dining room called the Hibiki that can be booked for parties of 6-10 and offer the full menu, including a chef’s menu with wine or cocktail pairings. Wowed!!! Shout out to Victor and his crew for the 411 and a great experience.

Spectacular atmosphere, unique and delicious cocktails, and awesome servers. We accidentally found this bar when another had a line and we couldn't be happier. There was no wait and the drinks were reasonable priced considering just how unique and interesting they are. It was a super fun spot and as long as you're OK with some adventurous flavors this is a great place to go.

Atmosphere: 7.5/10
Japanese-themed downstairs, mellow but upbeat. Music volume is good. Seating includes bar spots and some tables for groups. Located in the basement level of Angelita Wine Bar & Restaurant. Design shows solid craftsmanship and refined attention to detail. Drinks: 9/10
Recommendation: Raspberry & Flowers (for summer), Peppers & Eggplant
Menu is high quality, with flavor-profile diagrams for guidance. Large selection. Flavors are well balanced. Coasters are present. Glassware is above average, with unique touches like double-wall cooling glasses. Garnishes are creative, and overall presentation—including ice work—is strong. Service: 9.5/10
Water on arrival, plus complimentary snacks. Team is friendly, professional, and highly attentive. No reservations needed. Prices are average.

Angelita was such a pleasant surprise — delicious in the most impressively simple way. Every dish we had was fresh, honest, and full of flavor without trying too hard. We started with what might be the craziest tomato salad I’ve ever had — incredibly fresh, beautifully balanced, and prepared in the simplest way possible. Then came the ratatouille, which completely changed my mind about the dish. I was never a fan before, but Angelita’s version truly blew me away — full of depth and flavor. We finished off with the steak tartare, which was absolutely spot-on — perfectly seasoned and so satisfying. Among the three of us, we shared a bottle of white wine that paired beautifully with everything. People were also raving about their cocktails, which we didn’t get to try this time — but it gives me the perfect excuse to come back. Next time, I’ll definitely be sitting at the bar to explore their cocktail menu

This place was delicious in impressively simple ways. Don’t miss out on the wontons (I ate mine too quickly and forgot to take a pic). We also got their pisto, tuna tartar, and an off-menu strawberry dessert. Highly recommend getting whatever wine they recommend to you since their wine list is fabulous.

Blown away with our experience here. Firstly, Victor was genuinely so lovely to meet and helped us choose so many amazing cocktails. I love that they use all their own herbs and alcohol. We must have tried 3 different ones each. The food was absolutely exceptional. Get the tuna tostadas and the cheese/charcuterie. Can’t wait to come back

Loved the salmorejo here! Croquettes and beer were good too. A cool small bar space with mostly standing tables. Was busy but not loud to the point where you couldn’t hear each other. Great service.

Ignore every street sign. Every shop on gran via. Every other restaurant. Leave behind the tides of tourists and make a beeline to Bodega De La Ardosa. I would recommend dishes, but you can go alphabetically through the menu and return to go through it backwards the next day. Hell, you could just move in and do all your meals here. You can afford it too. Pro tip: get a vermouth. It comes with anchovies.

Bodega de la Ardosa is less about going for tapas and more about stepping into Madrid’s heart and letting it feed you. Established in 1892, it still wears its age proudly with wood-panelled walls, red tiles and vintage signs. The best way to eat here is to hand yourself over to the staff. Ask them to surprise you and dishes arrive that make you wonder why you would ever order for yourself again. The tortilla is legendary, the croquetas melt and the salmorejo carries the sun of Andalusia in every spoonful. The vermouth on tap is a ritual in a glass, sweet and bitter in perfect balance, while the wine list is quietly stupendous. Staff are guides as much as servers and the atmosphere hums with locals, travellers and a back room only found by ducking under the bar. Why not come here always?

Such a cool little bodega! Was happy to find this open on a Sunday evening, and even happier with the very friendly service despite my total deficiency of Spanish. Great tapas and nice house white wine.

Anchovies were not that great, but the grilled artichokes and the tortillas were extremely good! The staff can’t speak English but please ask for an english menu at the bar and point out what you’d like from there. Interior design was also super authentic and amazing!

This spot is a classic, old-school Madrid bar. The atmosphere is amazing, the venue’s vibes and decoration are outstanding (take into account that you probably will have to eat standing up) and the staff is super efficient and friendly. However, I found it extremely expensive and the food was quite average. The food is good (not more than that) and the portions are really small for such a high price, which is why I don’t think it deserves more than 3 stars. I had the braised ox cheek “Carrillera de Buey Estofada” (14 EUR), a slice of potato tortilla “Pincho de Tortilla” (4 EUR) and a beer (5 EUR). They only have one beer type, which was ok for me. Also, the tortilla was far from the best ones I have had in other places. It was really good, don’t get me wrong, but not more than that. And the meat was SUPER GOOD, extremely tender and tasty... but the portion was just too small to be 14 EUR. I spent 23 EUR for a dinner and I left the place quite hungry. Additionally, if you want a bit of bread you have to pay an additional 1.50 EUR…

The place is very authentic, the experience is so good, you get to another standing area by sliding under the bar !! The food is good and their tomato sauce is so delicious!

What an extraordinary dining experience. We loved it. From sitting at the counter with witty banter and cooking tips from the chefs. To exchanging tips with other diners. Sone amazingly inventive and yummy food. I’ve certainly got new ideas for my cooking blowtorch at home

The best meal I’ve had so far in Madrid. Every single dish is spectacular and unique in taste and presentation. As soon as you walk into the restaurant, it seems like you enter a laboratory 🥼🔬, and every dish is a well-thought experiment presented by the chef team. Although the seats are not as comfortable, the plates won’t disappoint you. My 🔝 favorites: Rolex (foie gras & egg yolk & truffle combo), Molleja (crunchy & tender), anguila melena leon (flavor bomb!) Second favs: alcachofa, beef tartar, chuletón cenital, mejillones roca (with profound wine aroma), and cigala - highly recommend these dishes as well, also PEAK! “Also okay, but wouldn’t recommend” plates: arenque ahumado with eggplant, bacalao tempura — didn’t stand out as much compared to other dishes. Overall, well done Sala de Despiece 2!! Will def try Sala Despiece 1 if I have the chance.

Our second time to their establishment. First time was at their other branch but food and service is exactly the same. Their artichoke is a MUST (see first photo). There’s a certain level of performance when they plate their food so be ready with ur camera. And the thing is, food taste as good as it looks. Do order their “Rolex” too as well as their prawns. Recommended their restaurant to a friend who travelled after us and he enjoyed it too!

Great restaurant with some very delicious food, quite creative dishes as well. Good wine, service was very nice and the style of the location is also super different. It is on the higher price level but worth for what you get. We did not reserve but arrived as soon as it opens, it was full so would recommend reservation.

Sala de Despiece ( we happened to be at location ending in 2) is a trendy and lively spot in Madrid, known for its industrial decor and unique dining concept where dishes are often finished right in front of you. The focus is on high quality ingredients and creative presentations, with standout starters and impressive flavors. It’s a good attempt at replicating the omakase style without an actual chef cooking/serving it right for you. We were the second group to checkin and were seated right away. Our server walked us through the menu and well the chef recommended options given the season and variety that they cater to.The service is generally friendly but can be inconsistent at times, with occasional delays between dishes. While the food was generally good, we didn’t really like the eel being served on the lion maine paste. Also the peppers were not as spicy as they were advertised by the staff and were an easy meal to finish on its own ( though it can be a varying experience from one person to another so watch out for that ). The atmosphere was energetic, but the noise and music might not be ideal for those looking for a quiet meal.Not too bad as you can still talk. Obviously intimacy is not something that is clearly possible is such a setup as well. Prices are on the higher side, but if you're after a fun, experiential dining experience with great products and a bit of theater, it’s worth a visit. Just be selective with your order to ensure the best experience.

Such a unique experience. Staff were friendly and some speak English. So much creativity in their dishes. Standouts include: the Rolex (if you get one for two they will cut it in half - the bite is so so rich), the super underrated tomato with basil, potato and mussels.

Interesting gastronomic proposition where you eat at a bar table and most of your selections are assembled and nice presented. Unusual flavor combinations are mixed to produce different textures and sensations. The artichokes, the grilled octopus and the “setas” were my favorites. Service was friendly and welcoming. Recommended!

I LOVE this market! It’s a bit touristy, but I love that you can find everything here. The seafood spot and the tapas place are definitely the most popular in my opinion. There’s so much to see and eat, I even got percebes here! Definitely a place worth coming back to.

What's the point t of all that lovely fresh food if you can barely squeeze through anywhere let alone eat your food comfortably? I tried twice in two days. Finally on day 2 I grabbed a fresh kiwi drink and got the hell out of there. Visited these places in other cities, great, here, ridiculously too small.

Mercado de San Miguel is an absolute food lover’s paradise and one of Madrid’s most vibrant culinary landmarks. Housed in a beautifully restored iron structure, the market combines traditional Spanish charm with a modern, bustling atmosphere. Every stall offers something tempting — from fresh oysters and Iberian ham to gourmet tapas, cheeses, pastries, and wines. It’s the perfect place to wander, taste, and share small bites while soaking in the energy of the crowd. The quality of the food is consistently excellent, and the variety makes it easy to build your own tapas adventure. Whether you’re stopping for a quick snack or spending a leisurely afternoon trying everything, Mercado de San Miguel delivers a full sensory experience — delicious flavors, lively ambiance, and a touch of history. A must-visit in Madrid for anyone who loves authentic, elevated Spanish cuisine.

Nice modern high end Mercado to get tapas. You can find things in here that are non-traditional. Lots of fresh flavours but there are also some places where the food looks a bit tired. It’s not a large Mercado so counter space is at a premium. The counters on the inside are packed and you will get jostled. It may be better to get some of the space on the outer window area. One other downside is the prices are more expensive than other mercados or tapas bars. But you are paying for the all in one convenience.

Tons of food options, impossible to find a seat. Was cool to try some Spanish crackers with random fish things on them. They were good…. The crackers were whatever but I guess that’s not the point. I sat outside on the ground. Don’t get why this place is on everyone’s rec list, go to a less known mercado!

They say this is a tourist trap but honestly, I don’t care. It’s a great market with everything. The food is beautifully laid out and they taste good. My favorites are definitely rhe anchovy and sardine tapas from the same shop. 2.50 EUR for each, cheapest in the market AND most delicious!

Amazing choice of food. A little expansive so check prices before buying your food. Very busy so difficult to get seating but well worth the experience and will definitely go back. The steak was amazing and the Jamon was really good although the portion was really big.

Enjoyed it, but felt a bit formal. We spent around €140 including a decent bottle of red. We prefer the more relaxed vibe. The Iberian meat starter was lovely.

We tried this famed Madrid restaurant while we were there last week. We could see them shaving jamon (Spanish Ham) through the window and it did not disappoint. Our favorite was the Gambas Al Ajillo. The waiter called them prawns so I was expecting large shrimp. While these were just tiny shrimp they were delicious! They arrived sizzling in a small crock of oil and garlic. We also dipped our bread in this which you get a large portion of. The suckling pig was also great. The skin was crispy and the meat was perfectly tender. Skip the Huevos estrellados. It's one of their signature dishes but it's basically just runny eggs and fries and you can get that elsewhere in the city. The service was not good. I think they forgot about us as we were at a small table in the entryway. We had to keep moving our chairs so they could get bottles of wine. I'm guessing this is not the norm but that was our experience. Food was great though!

It is a highly praised restaurant in Spain, located in Latina in a street that is full of restaurants. We had a shrimps-on-heated -olive-oil-plate, as spectacular as it was delicious, an oxtail stew and a suckling pig, both succulent and melting on tongue. The list of desserts was unimpressive, we had a pain perdu which was the best that I’ve ever had. We had a glass of wine, terrific too.

Traditional, delicious Spanish food! 💛 If you’re looking for proper traditional dishes in a cozy, authentic atmosphere, this is a great spot. The huevos con chistorra were amazing, and they even had gambas al ajillo off the menu, which were also delicious. I’ll definitely be coming back.

Get ready to order, the Spaniards are very fast speakers. If you asked the right questions, they’re more accommodating. The food was good , los Pepinos Salos was excellent.

Came here just for the garlic soup (sopa castellana) because I was feeling a bit sick. It was very delicious. Didn’t realize this is a fancy restaurant but they luckily seated me without reservation around 10 PM on a Thursday night. Service was exceptionally attentive and respectful despite the fact I didn’t fit in—wearing a sleeveless bro tank top, grooving to music on my headphones, and drinking from my water bottle. Would return (properly dressed!) and order more!

From the moment you enter you understand the other reviews and you’re like OMG I fell for it it’s a tourist trap. Use to be amazing but not anymore. Just go anywhere you can get similar food for cheaper… not bad but avoid

*A Frustrating Hour of Waiting for an Unseeable Show* My wife and I booked the 9:30 PM show at Corral De La Moreria, expecting, reasonably, a show that started around 9:30 PM. Instead, we were forced to sit there for an entire hour while the staff served dinner and drinks to other guests. The show didn't actually begin until 10:30 PM. Nowhere during the booking process did it state that the first hour is just a dinner service. We had already eaten, so we just sat there, completely bypassed, while the entire venue slowly received their meals. It's an incredibly deceptive practice. If you are going to force people who only booked the show to sit through an hour-long dinner service for others, you must state that clearly upfront. People who just want to see the show and have already made other dinner plans get completely screwed over by this model. To add insult to injury, the venue itself is terribly organized. The seating is a joke. We were crammed into a spot with an atrocious view of the stage. After waiting an hour for a show we didn't even want to eat at, we could barely see the performers. Save your money and your time. This was a poorly managed, frustrating experience from start to finish. We came for a 9:30 show and got a 10:30 show we couldn't even see.

we loved or time here. we didn't book dinne, but had a lovely glass of wine, a plate of delicious jamon and desert. the service was outstanding, and the show.... oh my how, Wonderfull. first time for us was the cello player in flamenco . dancers and guitarist were brilliant and the singers fantastic. all in all highly recommended. don't think twice . just go

THIS PLACE IS A GIANT RIPOFF. We booked dinner + show and the only options were 7pm or 10:55 on the website. We arrived promptly at 7pm to find a packed restaurant with our reserved table in the furthest corner from the stage (about 50+ feet), with no space to get into or out of the chair once seated. A GIANT FIRE HAZARD. The dinner option (which was listed at 49 euros on the website), sounded too good to be true, and it certainly was. I had chicken breast, which was of the quality you'd find in the prepared food aisle of a supermarket NOT a Michelin starred restaurant. I've eaten in a few Michelin 1 and.2 star restaurants so I'm speaking from experience.The wine book, had basic wines that cost 60 euros plus. In Spain, this is a travesty. In fact, I've eaten at Michelin 1-star restaurants in Spain where excellent wines can be had for under 50euros. I live in Spain and have been to numerous flamenco shows in small venues and large and this WAS NOT flamenco, with the limited exception of the guitarist and the singers. Two female dancers, danced something, but it wasn't flamenco, and their singing resembled Enya more than flamenco. There were no dancing pairs, rather one gent, followed by the Enya singers, then another gent, and that was the show all in under an hour. DO NOT GO HERE

As other reviews mention, the show was excellent but the dinner and logistics are a trap. Everything is completely overpriced and the service wasn’t bad but they continued to treat as tourists even though we’re actually from Madrid, even with some superiority when explaining the menu and wines like if I hadn’t seen a wine in my life. I was sad to see this is the most recommended place to see a flamenco show. The food and drinks are absolutely not worth the price, and the show is good but still expensive. Try to go somewhere else. Now, the

The show was absolutely beautiful and full of emotion — truly an unforgettable experience! Our waiter, Steven, was amazing — attentive, friendly, and made the night even better. The only downside was the food, which could definitely be improved. Overall, a wonderful evening that I’d still highly recommend for the flamenco performance alone!

***** THIS IS A TOURIST TRAP!******** The flamenco show was great! All the dancers, singers and musicians preformed beautifully and it was nice to see a part of Spain’s culture. However on the website they did not state you needed to make a minimum purchase of 49.95 € for dinner ( it was easy to make the minimum because it was very overpriced and we even got charged separately for butter and olive oil to accompany the bread). The website only stated that the dinner cost would be in addition to ticket price, but no minimum spend was listed. The seating was horrible as well with barely enough room for you get out of your chair. They try and squeeze as many tables in there as they can. A lady next to me dropped her napkin and when she tried to get it, her head was basically in my lap because of how tight the seating was. It was even difficult for the servers to get by, they constantly were bumping the back of my chair. The main course was very bland. Just a simple chicken breast and gravy with polenta. Definitely had better and very disappointing for a Michelin star restaurant. I would not recommend this place when visiting Madrid, I’m sure you can find an equally as good show with a better dinner and at more affordable price.

My first Flamenco experience so it’s the best I’ve have ever seen!! I thought the staff was marvelous, the food was a bit of an adventure but main course chicken was delicious. Great wine selection. Seating is ok to good, Dancing was fabulous, do some homework on the history of Flamenco and what to watch for, it makes it a little more interesting. Music was fun all in all it was a great experience and I’d go there again

Waiter's attitude was terribly not nice, they did not offer wine menu at all. One of the waiter, tall and without glasses was having an attitude problem with several tables. When other table said no need wine, he was laughing out loud and making fun of what the customer said. Food was not okay, we barely finish half. We would rather spend the money at other restaurants with better service and food quality.

We have seen a TV programme recommending this place. We booked the table on Google, when we arrived at the restaurant, the waiters gave us a blank face and later got annoyed when the reservation was not on their book. I can relate this to other one star comments on Google review as the whole unpleasant experience was about the waiters. I appreciate it is a busy restaurant and waiters do not speak fluent English. However, the waiters did not smile, showed an impatient attitude, or said thank you when we paid the bill, which I found very odd when other restaurants in Spain can do that at minimum, in both touristy and local areas. No complaints on the chef as the food was great, and I believe the chef values quality of food over food presentation. I will not return to this restaurant or recommend this to other people.

The staff was truly shocking, not only rude but also unprofessional, they had always had a bad attitude when taking the order, they were always on top of your had to check if you have finished the plate (which is understandable at some point knowing the place is busy) but one of the waitress took our bottle of water and the glasses without even finishing and after he took them and put his hand all inside the glass, he asked if we were finished, which is not okay. The food in general was nothing special (although it may depend on the taste). Definitely wouldn’t recommend booking a place to eat here as you would want a place to relax and enjoy not just a table to eat as quick as possible as this is not a fast food place!! We were surprised by the place as lots of people on the internet suggested it, but definitely a pass…

The food was acceptable, but the service was disappointing. The side dishes were placed on the table without any explanation of what they were for or how they should be enjoyed. When I asked, the server appeared irritated. After I paid the bill, there was no “thank you” or any gesture of appreciation. Overall, the attitude towards Spanish-speaking customers seemed noticeably better than towards English speakers. I would not return, nor would I recommend this restaurant, especially for non-Spanish speakers like myself.

This review is long overdue and I apologize to the staff for my tardiness. My wife and I celebrated our 43rd wedding anniversary while in Madrid and had the unique opportunity and honor of dining at this restaurant which specializes in Cocido Madrileno since 1870. They make each portion in clay pots and cook it on a wood burning stove to give it a wonderful smokey enhancement to the stew. The ingredients are simple yet combine to make a great meal. The staff explains the process and recommends the wines and deserts that enhance your dining experience Wilmer recommended their apple fritter and it was the perfect desert after having the cocido. The way that the staff treated us was nothing short of perfection and they paid attention to each detail of the experience. I'd like to recognize Wilmer, Kamal and Diana for their service and we are hoping to enjoy another Cocido Madrileno in the near future. There was however one disappointment though (but to no fault of the staff)... They had clay pots with the restaurant's name (logo) at the check out register and wanted to purchase one as a pleasant memory but weren't for sale. We recommended that they strongly consider selling them but for now, the great dining experience and full tummy upon leaving the restaurant will be treasured for years to come. Thank you, Taverna La Bola for making our dining experience there so memorable while in Madrid.

Charming dining room. Stew is delicious and so is the apple fritter/ice cream dessert. Incredible service.

Went there today with my sister and our night was ruined. The food was average which at this point was not the main problem. The problem was our waiter who was super rude, zero smile zero professionalism. I cannot even understand how such person can work there. I was a bit hesitant to go la Bola because I read the previous comments who complained a about the service but wanted to give a chance. But honestly such a disappointment. Our waiter smiled only when we asked the check. We had one wish was to leave as soon as possible. I complained in the end on our way out and hopefully our complaint will be taken into consideration but such people ruin the restaurant's reputation. I will never recommend this place unfortunately.

An Airport with several terminals but Terminal 4 is linked by shuttle train. I recently arrived at this airport on my short trip to Madrid - July 2025. Toilets are clean and I was able to walk through Passport Control straight away - No queue, very quick and speedy service. There are ample clear signs to guide you where you need to go as well as when you exit. I had no trouble finding the Metro system which was straight-forward. Leaving I found a bit tricker, as I had already checked in online, it wasn't completely obvious where to go to so I went to my airline check-in desks and then followed the signs for security/check in, once I found the way and got the escalators down to the shuttle link, everything was straight forward. The shuttle link propels you from Terminals 1,2 and 3 to Terminal 4. Once there it's quiet, there's a variety of food places/shops to eat. Once I was there, it was easy to find toilets and my gate for my flight. Overall I would say a decent airport to navigate and can't fault Passport Control - No queue coming in and out - Seen to straight away with issue. Thank you.

Enough big airport. I was departing from T4 for domestic flight also lading to T1 for international flight. Arrival was good also shuttle between terminals was easy to find. T4 departure was a-little bit mess. For this kind of big airport needs better accessibility. The signs must be more clear and easy findable even i wish to see following signs on the floor . Fast track was not working. I could not find anyone to ask about it. Even though i have fast track access i had to stay at normal line.

Madrid Barajas is a huge airport serving Spain’s capital, which naturally means there are a lot of people passing through at any given time. It has four terminals, but they are not directly connected to each other. Terminal 4 is modern, spacious, and clearly designed for full-service carriers, offering a pleasant travel experience. Terminals 1 and 2, which are mainly used by low-cost airlines and Star Alliance carriers, are noticeably older and more worn down. I did not see Terminal 3, but the difference between T1 & T2 and T4 feels like stepping into two completely different airports. That said, even in the older terminals there are plenty of amenities, including restaurants, duty-free shops, and lounges, which makes waiting more comfortable. Security was surprisingly quick and efficient during my visit, which was a big plus. The airport is located a bit outside the city, but it can be reached in about 45 minutes by metro, rideshare, or taxi, so getting to and from the center is fairly straightforward. Overall, Madrid Barajas is a solid airport with a good range of facilities and smooth operations, though the gap in quality between the terminals is hard to miss. Four stars feels like a fair rating.

Modern and clean airport with plenty of duty-free shops 🛍️, including great wine selections 🍷 and a Hard Rock Cafe store. Clear signage in English and Spanish makes navigation easy, though there’s a fair bit of walking between gates. 🚶‍♂️ Security can get busy at peak times, but staff are helpful and efficient. Overall, a smooth travel experience and good spot to shop or grab a quick bite before your flight. ✈️

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is a large and modern hub that makes traveling in and out of Spain smooth and easy. The terminals are spacious, clean, and filled with plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants to enjoy while waiting for your flight. Signs are clear, and moving between gates is simple with good transport links inside the airport. The atmosphere is lively but well-organized, with helpful staff and solid amenities like lounges, charging stations, and fast connections to the city center.

Madrid Barajas Airport, officially Adolfo Suárez Madrid, Barajas, is a glittering Spanish labyrinth where planes, people, and patience all orbit in organized chaos. The terminals stretch so far you start considering a gym membership just to reach your gate. The architecture is gorgeous though, golden ceilings and sweeping lines that make you feel like you’re walking through a designer cathedral dedicated to delayed flights. Didn’t think an airport could be stylish and slightly sadistic at the same time, but here we are. The shops gleam, the coffee costs a small inheritance, and the announcements echo like divine judgment. Still, everything somehow works. It’s efficient, confusing, elegant, and mildly exhausting, just like Spain itself in airport form.

First Impressions here in Madrid are very good! The airport is modern bright with high ceilings. Everything is very clean and well marked. The staff are all friendly ! Just a fabulous experience. No complaints!