Maintaining the Momentum: Supporting Madrid’s Black-Owned Eateries

Where do we go from here? It’s been a month since the tragic death of George Floyd rocked the world — and what a month it’s been. We’ve seen century-old statues topple, anti-racism uprisings fill iconic streets across the world, and big-name companies adopt more inclusive recruitment policies.

So could this really be a turning point and if so, how can we continue to play our part? There are heaps of ways to support the Black members of our Madrid community, but at Naked Madrid we’re big fans of letting the food do the talking. And who says food can’t help heal social divides, right?

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the Black-owned restaurants our readers are supporting (and loving!) right now. Cue scramble for tables.

1. El Mandela

If you’re hoping to spice up your summer staycation in the city, then why not treat yourself to some ostrich carpaccio? Yes, you heard right. This one-of-a-kind eatery also serves as a training and employment platform for young Africans migrants. Did we mention their desserts are out-of-this-world delicious?

  • Facebook & Instagram: @elmandela
  • Address: Calle Independencia 1
  • Metro: Opera
  • Phone: 911429800

2. Bar Colores

Had enough of the age-old tortilla and caña combo? Head to Calle del Mesón de Paredes to experience the sensory delights of Senegalese cuisine. This vibrant Lavapiés hideaway serves up some of the tastiest rice dishes in the city (Thiebou Yapp is our favorite!). Not sure what to wash it down with? Their natural and refreshing beverages from across the African continent are guaranteed to quench your summer thirst.

  • Facebook
  • Address: Calle del Mesón de Paredes, 43
  • Metro: Lavapiés
  • Phone: 632987474

3. Restaurante Etíope Nuria

From delectable vegan tasting platters to celiac-friendly dishes, this traditional Ethopian restaurant really does cater for all tastes. The best bit: there’s no need for cutlery since almost all of their dishes are served and eaten with injera (Ethiopian flatbread). If you fancy sampling what’s said to be the first alcoholic beverage consumed by humans, then order yourself a glass of tej —  you won’t be sorry!

  • Facebook
  • Address: Calle Manuela Malasaña, 6
  • Metro: Bilbao
  • Phone: 915 91 63 27

4. Africa Fusión

Too much eating out starting to pull on the purse strings? Then this no-frills Lavapiés restaurant is right up your alley. They have a great selection of authentic African dishes, including Maffe (a West African nut-based stew) and Thieboudienne (Senegal’s national dish). If they’re fully booked, then why not grab something tasty to go? Because stifling summer heat and cooking aren’t an ideal mix.

  • Facebook 
  • Address: Calle Argumosa, 15
  • Metro: Lavapiés
  • Phone: 632714743

5. Restaurante Etíope Gonder

Yes, you read right. Not one but two Ethiopian restaurants have made it onto our list. Located in La Latina, this rustic eatery offers full-on flavor at reasonable prices. If you’re a self-confessed caffeine addict, you’ll fall head over heels in love with their traditional freshly-ground coffee varieties too.

  • Facebook & Website
  • Address: Calle Grafal, 8
  • Metro: Tirso de Molina or La latina
  • Phone: 917047250

For a longer list of Black-owned restaurants in Madrid, check out the Facebook group Eat Out Madrid where there’s a thread with many comments and recs.

By Helen Hadley (LinkedIn)

*All photos are from each restaurant’s social media accounts and websites

Also read Helen’s recent articles:




5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout in Madrid

If you cast your mind back to pre-lockdown Madrid, pollution alerts on public transport, the brown cloud, and fiery political debates on the future of Madrid Central were as much part of everyday life as la hora del vermut. Let’s be honest though: a lot’s changed since then.

It’s hard (sometimes impossible) to find positives in this “new normal.” But aside from the politicians and medical staff, there’s someone else who’s pretty grateful we’re all staying safe at home – Mother Nature. The city’s air is the cleanest it’s been in decades and as a result, life’s returning to our green areas. If that sounds like something worth celebrating, then why not hang up your apron for the evening and order some takeout?

We know, that doesn’t exactly sound like eco-friendly advice. However, as the city’s once burgeoning vegan and vegetarian restaurant scene fights for survival, with owners desperately clambering to adhere to new hygiene laws in order to keep their doors open, there’s no need to beat yourself up about (slightly) increasing your carbon footprint. 

After all, if we want these sustainable eateries to remain part of Madrid’s cosmopolitan culinary revolution, then they need our support now more than ever. So, if you’ve tried out enough new recipes to last a lifetime and you’re craving some fresh falafel, here’s a round-up of the best vegan and vegetarian eateries offering home delivery during lockdown (and beyond)!

1. Bunny’s Deli – the eco warrior’s paradise!

5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout during lockdown
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If saving the planet’s pretty high on your list of priorities (shouldn’t it be on everyone’s?), then order something tasty from Bunny’s Deli. Not only is all of their packaging completely compostable, this family-run business is fully powered by renewable energy. 

  • Instagram: @bunnys_deli
  • Address: Calle San Gregorio, 17, 28004, Madrid
  • Phone: 648 73 27 83
  • Delivery: Uber Eats

2. The Vegan Burger – who needs meat?

5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout during lockdown

The Vegan Burger is one of the Salamanca barrio’s up-and-coming haunts. Though it may not be quite as “trendy” as some of its neighbors, it’s certainly popular with young madrileños eager to jump on the vegan bandwagon. And with burgers this good, who can blame them? 

3. La Huerta de Almería – bringing the coast a little closer

5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout during lockdown
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For all of us in Madrid right now, the delights of the coast seem far from reach. But don’t despair – there’s a glimmer of hope in sight! This rustic corner of Malasaña is offering nutritious, coastal-inspired menus del día straight to your door from Monday to Friday. It’s the perfect midday pick-me-up when you’re working from home.

4. Rajasthan – spice up your lockdown life!

5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout during lockdown
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Had your summer backpacking adventure put on hold? With food this good delivered to your doorstep, you’ll (almost) feel like you’re there. They have a wide range of spice levels to suit all tastes and their peshwari naan bread always hits the spot.

5. Plantarse – a helping hand for local farmers

5 best places to order vegan and vegetarian takeout during lockdown
Source (feature image too)

If you’ve overdone it on the junk food and you’re feeling a little “out of whack,” Plantarse will help get your body back on track. Its plant-based delights are designed to offer inner peace through healthy living – and we all need some of that right now. The best bit: the majority of this delivery-only kitchen’s ingredients are locally sourced. 

Article by Helen Hadley

Also check out:

Where are you ordering takeout during lockdown? Let us know!




PinsaPizza: Authentic Italian pizza with a twist in barrio Salamanca

Madrid is known for many things. Pizza is not one of them. 

While Rome, Chicago, or New York have their signature styles of homemade ‘za, the Spanish capital hasn’t carved out a legacy in this realm. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find a pie with much flavor at all, with late-night, budget chains such as Papizza and Telepizza reigning supreme over its sad, sad kingdoms.

But in recent years, things have been changing in Madrid. With globalization has come picky eaters with refined palates demanding all the hipster delicacies: specialty coffee, craft beer, artisan gelato, and now, pizza that makes your eyes triple in size.

This small “movement” has gained traction in the past year or so with players like Picsa (Argentine-style pies) and Massa (doughy, personal pan pizzas). But I’m tempted to give the top vote to PinsaPizza, an authentic Italian pizzeria with some very surprising twists.

We went on a freezing November evening to their Salamanca location near Gregorio Marañón (they have another shop up north in La Paz). We were immediately warmed up by the cozy dim lights and the smell of cheese being baked…

We started off with the burrata pesto salad, which, if you aren’t very hungry, is a meal in itself.

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For the main course, my date went for the mushroom truffle pizza. Note: even the personal pan pizzas are enough to fill you up if you’ve had a starter, so be prepared to ask for a to-go box.

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I went for the weirdest thing on the menu (¿qué quieres? I’m an Aquarius): the chicken masala pizza, hold the chicken. The sauce was very flavorful and the cheese fresh, but I recommend adding some veggies to it, as it was pretty basic without.

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Aaand saving the best for last, as always: dessert. I ordered one of my favorite foods in the whole universe (and I would never exaggerate in a million years [yes, that’s 110% a dad joke]): tiramisu. And they don’t skimp here. The photo does it no justice—creamy, flavorful, and a portion big enough for two. Bliss.

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All in all, the experience was fantastic, and the menu definitely had some options to come back for: diavola, tartufo di parma, flor de quesos, a veggie number with grilled asparagus on top, even a Nutella dessert pizza…

And if you’re a serial killer and don’t like pizza, there are also calzones and enormous Italian-style salads.

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Next time I’m craving real, authentic Italian pizza, I’ll be back…

PinsaPizza




Bar Toboggan – best new terrace in Madrid’s Arganzuela district

Bar Toboggan is one of the best new additions to the area of Arganzuela, located just around the corner from El Matadero. This lovely little restaurant is nestled between a courtyard and playground, so it’s away from the cars and you feel like you’ve left the city – almost as if you were at the beach!

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

The outdoor seating area is spacious, and family- and pet-friendly. The restaurant itself is also very open, with high windows, and modern, colorful decor. The servers are young and friendly. As for the menu, you’ll find a great selection of options from small dishes to mains.

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

The last time we went, our drinks arrived with an extremely fresh and gooey tortilla de patata – a nice change from the potato chips and industrial olives that we’re so used to these days.

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

We decided to order an array of small dishes to share: patatas bravas Toboggan, croquetas de jamón, salmorejo, and a pepito palentino – a filet of meat, a slice of brie cheese and sautéed green bell pepper on a baguette.

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

We were completely full by the end of the meal. In total, we had ordered four small dishes along with two drinks each, and our bill came out to less than 30€. A bargain in this city nowadays! 

Bar Toboggan by Naked Madrid

The first time we went, we ordered the Toboggan-style burger with brie, caramelized onions, bacon and mustard; and the tuna tartar with shrimp and avocado. But we didn’t take pictures that day. Sorry! I definitely recommend them though. 

Food aside, what stands out most about Bar Toboggan is the welcoming atmosphere and unbeatable terrace. Seriously, it might just be my favorite terraza in Madrid.

Bar Toboggan

 

 




El Camoatí – an incredibly romantic Argentinian bistro bar in La Latina

As soon as I walked into Camoatí for the first time a few years ago, it was love at first sight. My friend was holding her birthday party there and I couldn’t believe I’d never heard about it before. This charming Argentinean bistro is located on a side street off of La Latina’s most popular plaza, Plaza de la Paja. The facade is unassuming so you’re likely to walk right past it. But don’t! 

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As you step in, you’ll find the cozy bar area, and instantly feel the warm vibe that I’ll try to express in this article. But you’ll really have to experience it for yourself. 

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Both the decor and ambience at Camoatí are truly special. You’ll find funky furniture, quirky trinkets and mismatched table settings all around. It’s fun to just let your eyes wander and imagine where all the items came from – whoever decorated this place definitely had a unique sense of style.

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The main dining area has two separate levels, plus a few tables squeezed into cute little nooks for extra romantic dining. At the tables you’ll also find paper and crayons for colorful drawing, like in the good-old days of going to restaurants as kids (they’ve also got board games).

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Dining at Camoatí is always a treat and the food is simply outstanding – the menu features a wonderful selection of dishes inspired by Argentinian, French and Italian cuisine. You’ll find hearty meat dishes, fresh fish, homemade pasta, tasty desserts, cocktails, wine, coffee, and more. Not to mention the service is very much up to par.

Also note that Camoatí is a great place to go even if you’re just in the mood for a drink or a coffee with friends.

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So without further ado, here’s what we ordered the last time we went to Camoatí:

We started out with a glass of Malbec and an Albariño, both recommended by the server.

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As an appetizer we ordered the tuna tartar, served with avocado and dressed with soy sauce, ginger and sesame oil. It was incredibly fresh and delicious. I order this almost every time I go.

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And for the mains, James got the traditional milanesa napolitana – a generous-sized filet of veal that’s breaded and covered in tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s served with a heaping portion of homemade fries and salad. The photo says it all.

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And I went with a lighter option: the salmon that’s grilled in teriyaki sauce and served over sautéed vegetables. So good.

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To top it all off we went with one of the homemade desserts, recommended by the server: volcán de dulce de leche con helado. Amazing.

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On other occasions I’ve also tried their homemade empanadas, the (wonderful) plate of grilled vegetables topped with goat cheese, and other meat dishes that are to die for. But I’m still working my way through the menu.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, an afternoon with friends, or simply a delicious meal in a charming setting, I promise you that Camoatí will not disappoint. You’ll want to come here again and again.

Camoatí




Atlast Alitas – a chef from Atlanta introduces Madrid to Chicken & Waffles, Wings, and more!

Atlanta native Tara Brown was teaching English in Madrid for three years and noticed an essential piece of American culture was missing from the rapidly globalizing Spanish capital: the classic Southern-style brunch. And that’s why she created Atlast Alitas, her very own pop-up feasts in the heart of Madrid.

Recognizing this vacuum prompted Tara to give notice and resign from the school where she was teaching in order to pursue her passion: cooking and creating a community around food. Tara used the popular hospitality platform Workaway to volunteer and train in the culinary arts in Haifa, Israel and brought the knowledge gained during this stay back to Madrid.

In collaboration with La Pasa Gin Bar, Tara hosts pop-up “Wing & Beats Nights” that are DJ’d by local artist Profesoul on Friday nights. On select weekend days you can come to her pop-up all-you can eat “Chicken & Waffles Brunch.” 

Atlas Alitas – a chef from Atlanta introduces Madrid to Chicken & Waffles, Wings, and more!

This mouth-watering feast is the real deal, and can offer the American abroad a taste of home. Alternatively, to people from outside of the United States who have never before experienced the blend of sweet and savory that is chicken and waffles, Tara offers a heartfelt window into the gastronomy of the southern United States. Tara creates her own sauces from scratch: Lemon Pepper, Jack Daniels BBQ, Honey Sriracha and Buffalo Hot.

Tara’s culinary ambitions do not end there as she seeks to expand to catering events and to eventually open her own restaurant in Madrid. The pursuit of an international experience in the culinary world was what brought Tara to Haifa, Israel. There she studied under the chef Koby Carolla, co-founder of the social vegan restaurant Robin Food, whose team rescues discarded fruit and vegetables from Haifa’s central market every day at 6am. The rescued produce are adapted into various dishes in an ever-changing daily menu. Patrons here pay as they please, deciding for themselves the value of their meal.

Chef Carolla taught Tara how to lead by example in the kitchen and how to be spontaneous and innovative with whatever ingredients are available. After three months of cooking with and living alongside an international team of Workaway volunteers, Tara returned to Madrid from Israel, empowered to begin her project.

Atlas Alitas – a chef from Atlanta introduces Madrid to Chicken & Waffles, Wings, and more!

The owner of La Pasa Gin Bar,  Adolfo Lorenzo, agreed to collaborate with Tara without much convincing. In addition to granting her access to the kitchen and space of their two locations on Calle San Bernardo and Calle Huertas, he has been sponsoring the costs of the events, which has allowed Tara to reduce risk as she grows her brand.

Tara was the first to introduce the combination of fried Chicken and Waffles to some of her international patrons in Madrid and Haifa, who had never before fathomed such a combination. Tara’s expert opinion on the best way to actually eat this meal is to use your hands to make sure both the sweet and savory flavors are equally represented in each bite.

Atlas Alitas – a chef from Atlanta introduces Madrid to Chicken & Waffles, Wings, and more!

Atlast Alitas

You can stay up-to-date via her Facebook page at Tara Brown and her instagram: @brownskin_mochadiva and be sure to come to her next pop-up brunch party at La Pasa Gin Bar!

If you would like Tara to cater your next party she can be contacted at Tara.brown93@yahoo.com. 

Photography by Joel Potter




10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

So, if you’re a long-time Madrid dweller, you’ll remember the harsh days of the financial crisis which are now (thankfully) a sort of blip on the landscape of Madrid’s movida. Business is booming and as a result, the culinary scene in the city now packs more than just a punch. It positively sizzles with the best of Spanish produce and rustic neighbourhood joints that can’t be missed.

It’s a tough one to call, but I’m not sure what I’ve done more of since having moved to the land of jamón – eat out, or treat myself at the Zara sale. Either way, I’ve had a lot of hot dinners and have whittled down my favourites for you to work your way through. A sort of foodie bucket list as it were.

If traditional cuisine is your thing, hopefully I’ve got you covered. However, as the city lets go of its slightly conservative culinary roots, the patrons of the plazas and the tourists on the terrazas now greedily gobble ramen, cervices and bao buns with as much gusto as the locals love their pinchos. Many to-do lists are a chore, make this one a pleasure.

Here’s a round-up of the 10 best restaurants in Madrid. You’ll also find my full restaurant review of each one if you click on the link in the titles!

1. Lady Madonna – take a day off the diet

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

If you’re in the mood for a great bit of grub without breaking the bank (and aren’t we all?) head to Lady Madonna. Definitely the kind of place where you can dress up for dinner, it’s just a stone’s throw from Alonso Martínez and a little oasis in the heart of the city. Its charming little terrace is the perfect place to people watch, and the Sunday brunch is pretty damn delish.

2. Bosco de Lobos – a casual-chic restaurant in Chueca

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Oh how I love this place. Let me count the ways… It’s a favourite in the same way as a beloved leather jacket is. Bosco de Lobos is the perfect place for a casual yet chic dining experience. The menu covers every foodie fad but is complete with classics such as arroz and steak tartare. The desserts are to die for, as are the interior vibes – all dim lighting and shelves groaning with books. A must visit.

3. Ana la Santa – baby it’s cold outside

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Situated on one of the most beautiful plazas in the city, Ana La Santa is housed in the ground floor of the Hotel Me. Beyond cosy in the winter and perennially popular, Ana La Santa always delivers on excellent service and an awesome ambiance.

4. Bar Tomate – modern minimalism at its best

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Somewhat off the typical tourist trial, this is a great neighborhood spot. Chamberí is somewhat of a foodie mecca and Bar Tomate combines minimalist decor at its best and delicious cuisine. The vibe is rustic and the food is fresh. A winning combo if I ever I saw one.

5. Luzi Bombon – get ready to luck out

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Situated on the swish and swanky Paseo de la Castella, Luzi Bombon is a stylish restaurant offering flawless service and utterly divine food. It’s part of Grupo Tragaluz, meaning you’re in safe hands when it comes to enjoying some marvelous munchies.

  • Facebook & Instagram: @luzibombon
  • Address: Paseo de la Castellana 35
  • Phone: 917 02 27 36
  • Metro: Rubén Darío

6. Somos Restaurant – the jewel in Barceló Torres’s crown

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Located in what’s become the iconic Torre de Barcelona, Somos Restaurant and Garra Bar have become the type of places to splash your hard earned cash. In an undeniably stunning setting overlooking Gran Vía, the outstanding cuisine is not too be missed and neither is the sunset as the sunshine bids the city goodnight.

7. Picsa – got a ‘pizza’ my heart

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

On one of the hippest streets in Madrid (ok I’m biased, I live here) Picsa serves up delicious Argentinian pizzas that rival any that BA has to offer. The flavour combos are to die for – I never resist the lure of the chorizo criollo with provolone and hey Heber should you.

8. Gracias Padre – you’ll be thankful for this Mexican restaurant

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

In the barrio of Salamanca, Gracias Padre is hands down one of Madrid’s best Mexican restaurants. Here’ll you’ll find treats as tasty as tacos hailing from Tulum. Their frozen margs always hit the spot and the rainbow-esque surroundings are a riot of crayola colour.

9. Nubel – the Reina Sofia Museum’s stunning restaurant

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Nubel is the beautiful restaurant housed in the world-famous Reina Sofía museum. It’s a hybrid that feels like part restaurant/part nightclub as there’s often a DJ playing a delectable mix of club classics that adds to the buzzy energy that envelops you on arrival.

  • FacebookWebsite & Instagram: @nubelmadrid
  • Address: Museo Reina Sofía, Calle de Argumosa, 43
  • Metro: Atocha
  • Phone: 915 30 17 61

10. Picalagartos – dine sky high on a gorgeous rooftop bar overlooking Gran Vía

10 Best restaurants in Madrid, according to Little Miss Madrid

Picalagartos is quite literally (in the words of the song) up on the roof. Towering above Gran Vía, it’s perched atop the NH hotel. It boasts 360-degree views of our beloved city and combines great cocktails with great cuisine.

All photos from each restaurant’s respective social media accounts

By Cat Powell, aka @littlemissmadrid

Have any favourites that we should include in a second “best restaurants in Madrid” list? Let us know in the comments!




The Lobstar – bringing authentic New England comfort food to Madrid

We can now savor authentic lobster rolls in Madrid thanks to The Lobstar. Situated near Bilbao, this newly opened restaurant is bringing the best of New England comfort food to the city, with hearty dishes like clam chowder, lobster bisque and shrimp rolls.

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The decor is inspired by restaurants you’ll find along Maine’s quaint coastal fishing towns. It mixes industrial touches with a casual vibe. Lots of light streams in through the tall storefront windows, and the brick and metal walls contrast with the wooden floor.

There are just a few tables and booths, and an open kitchen where you can see the chefs preparing casual American seafood dishes following traditional recipes. As for the music, classic hits are played back to back, so you’ll probably know all the lyrics. Feel free to sing (or hum) along.

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In true “lobster bar” fashion, we first ordered beer – a trusted Sam Adams and an excellent pilsner from Marbella. As for the menu, our servers were very helpful and recommended we start with the buffalo shrimp tacos.

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We also asked for a bowl of rich clam chowder, for nostalgia’s sake. Both were delicious and filling enough to be a complete meal on their own.

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Next up, our main dishes. Of course we ordered the star of the show – “the lobstar roll” – and it was the real deal. The lobsters arrive alive from Canada, boiled up and served on a toasted and buttered homemade brioche bun, with lots of flavorful mayonnaise. Absolutely perfect.

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We also ordered the swordfish burger which was gigantic. It had several generous-sized pieces of grilled fish along with the works: lettuce, tomato, onion and mayo, also on a sweet bun. Both were served with a heaping portion of the best sweet potato fries I’ve tried in the city so far.

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And the most surprising part for me? The side of coleslaw. It was real coleslaw! The kind you find at New York City delis. We also couldn’t help but take a peek at the delicious-looking mac and cheese dishes that kept coming out of the kitchen. We’ll definitely be going back for those next time.

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We needed to take a short pause before we could even consider having dessert. After two slowly sipped cups of espresso (each served with a cute “Lobstar” marshmallow), we decided to go for it. The first items to catch our eyes were the cider donut and the butterscotch with honeycomb milkshake…

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They sounded amazing, but given the meal of champions that we’d just devoured, we asked for a lighter option. The server recommended the key lime pie, one of my favorite desserts and the perfect finishing touch for an incredibly satisfying meal. Let’s just say we walked all the way home, happy.

The Lobstar

  • Website: www.thelobstar.es
  • Instagram: @thelobstarbar
  • Address: Calle Carranza, 4 (Madrid)
  • Metro: Bilbao



Picalagartos, dine sky high on a stunning rooftop overlooking Gran Vía

This year myself and one of my best friends have been on pretty different trajectories. Whilst she’s been globe trotting galore having taken a sabbatical, I’ve never felt more aware of putting down “roots” – having finally become a home owner, cue quite the case of FOMO.
After 11 months of not being able to enjoy so much as a glass of fizz together in person, last weekend we were finally reunited for the puente in my adopted city of Madrid. This called for a special venue for a special lunch.

Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

Now I love a rooftop. I’m not sure if it’s something to do with being a city dweller who’s constantly on the search for cleaner air, but I feel it’s probably more to do with the “grammable” views that are pretty much guaranteed when you head sky high.

Having done my research, Picalagartos was booked, the restaurant perched atop the NH Hotel on Gran Vía, boasts 360 views of the city. Not too shabby, eh? Now most hotel restaurants have a bad rep, often found to be overpriced and underwhelming, but not the case here. The standard of food matched the view, to be summed up in a word, it was stunning.

Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

Feeling the kind of giddy high that I can only imagine toddlers feel at soft play, we started with a cocktail to toast our reunion. This was the start of a true Spanish sobremesa, with neither of us keen to leave until the sun had well and truly set over Gran Vía.

My friend’s a veggie (no I don’t know how we dine out together either, being a self-confessed carnivore Queen) but it was pleasing to find that this wasn’t an issue – the menu offering a variety of veggie options, all of which were more tempting than the standard offering of tortilla.
Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

We split a mille feuille of patatas bravas that is in the running for being the best carb that’s ever passed my lips. Layers of buttery potatoes formed into giant “chips” were served with a piquant bravas sauce and a mouth-wateringly good aioli. They were so downright divine, case in point, we ordered a second portion and not one part of me regrets having to work them off the following Monday at spin.

Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

I plumped for a steak (cooked perfectly), while my amiga sampled the delights of a vegetable garden – which looked so temptingly tasty that it could almost have lured me away from my meaty marvel, but not quite.

Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

A couple of chocolate soufflés later, gin and tonics sunk – our vows of friendship reaffirmed, there was nothing left to do but harass the waiter to take (multiple) pics of us with Madrid in all her dusky delight in the background – luckily he obliged, I have a feeling we weren’t the only ones bowled over by the vista.

Picalagartos rooftop restaurant Madrid

Picalagartos is the kind of “oooh and aaah” inducing spot that will have you falling in love with Madrid all over again (in case your affections have ever waned). The food, and in my case, the friendship, were faultless and it was the perfect place to spend a free Friday afternoon that combined both gorgeous grub and plenty of glamour.

Picalagartos




Not much not to love at NuBel – The Reina Sofia’s stunning restaurant

We really are spoilt in Spain. From the glorious blue skies to the culture of napping not being frowned upon, we really do enjoy the good life. So when it rains, I have to admit that I’ve become one of those people who hunkers down and reaches for the remote and Netflix.

However, this last Saturday, in spite of the torrential rain and the fact that my hair was starting to look more and more like Rod Stewart’s (I’ll thank the humidity for that) I donned my gladrags and kept my dinner date at NuBel – the quite frankly stunning setting that’s part of the Reina Sofia museum on the south side of the city.
NuBel Restaurant inside Madrid's Reina Sofia Museum

So before a mere morsel had passed my lips, the first thing that floored me on arrival was the space. Lofty and chic, yet deceptively cosy, NuBel is kind of like entering a club, albeit, one without the sticky carpets and two for one drinks that littered my youth. There was a DJ playing dance classics that I remembered from the days where I didn’t turn into a pumpkin if I stayed out past midnight; and the whole ‘vibe’ was one of people ready to party (just not on an empty stomach).

So having taken our seats for dinner (pretty pink velvet ones in case you’re interested) we plumped for some cocktails, a pisco sour for me and a ‘hard drink’ for my pal – I can attest, it was indeed strong, absinthe will do that I guess.fullsizeoutput_4ddf

We perused the menu and our waiter, Angel, suggested that we try a range of the mini plates so that we could salivate over a spectrum of flavours. I think we ordered ten in total and each little bite was as delicious as the last. I loved the mange tout falafel with feta, while my amiga lapped to the snow crab cocktail. The mains were every bit as delectable as the desserts. I don’t have the sweetest tooth but my deconstructed lemon meringue pie was so good that I was not one for sharing.

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However, food aside, what I really loved about NuBel was the atmosphere. So often these days I go for dinner and feel ready to be rolled home, the lure of my pyjamas too great to resist. NuBel manages to straddle the line of being a restaurant/club perfectly – the music will have your toe tapping away and ready to ditch the dessert in favour of the dance floor.

NuBel Restaurant inside Madrid's Reina Sofia Museum

For art aficionados, the proximity to renowned works from the likes of Picasso, adds that little extra pizazz that a regular restaurant would find hard to rival.

All photos from NuBel

NuBel