A trip to Spain wouldn't be complete without testing the local fare. So, what is tapas and where can you get it?

What is Tapas?

In a word, people from the Americas would likely use the term "appetizers", but tapas isn't meant just to be eaten with your fingers while standing around a buffet table at a wedding or party ... the experience is key.
Tapas is a means of tasting many flavours at one sitting, rather than your typical "meat and potatoes" kind of dinner, which is limited to 3 or 4 options. Not only do you get to savour a variety of foods, but the smaller portions help to promote conversation, as you are not so busy filling your mouth with food. The breaks between servings are prime time for connecting with the other people at your table.
This is not to say that you can't serve tapas from a buffet table - many chefs employ the power of tapas regularly for buffets.

Here are some restaurants in Madrid where you can enjoy tapas:

Casa Alberto

Don't be afraid to try some of the more unusual items on the menu. While you can still order classics like meatballs and dumplings, you should try to extend your experience by tasting other menu items like ear stew and lamb trotters.

Casa Alberto can be found at:

C / de las Huertas, 18
28012 Madrid
+34 914 29 93 56

Hours:

Tavern: 12:00 to 1:30 pm
Restaurant: 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm to midnight
Closed Sunday night and Monday

Viva Madrid

Viva Madrid's pride comes from the fact that they use only the freshest ingredients and food is prepared that day. Nothing is frozen at Viva Madrid. Try the shrimp croquettes or skewered chicken curry.

Viva Madrid can be found at:

Calle de Manuel, Fernández y González, 7
Madrid
+34 914 20 35 96

Hours:

Open all day

La Ardosa

La Ardosa is more akin to a bar/lounge with it's vintage style seating area and a well-stocked bar that serves as a focal point for this restaurant. The food is traditional, and the service is exceptional.

La Ardosa can be found at:

Calle de Colón, 13
Madrid
+34 915 21 49 79

Hours:

Sunday to Friday: 8:30 am to 2:00 pm
Saturday: 11:45 am to 2:30 pm

La Musa Latina

La Musa Latina is a trendy little place that combines traditional Latino with multicultural tones. With a relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy inspirational dishes from common to edgy ... calamari in cane syrup anyone?

La Ardosa can be found at:

Costanilla de San Andrés, 12
Madrid
+34 913 54 02 55

Hours:

Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 am to midnight
Thursday: 9:00 am to 1:30 am
Friday: 9:00 am to 2:00 am
Saturday: 1:00 pm tp 2:00 am
Sunday: 1:00 pm to midnight

Book your trip to Madrid today!