La Mina opened in Madrid in 1949, and some years ago the first owner's grandson took it over and renovated it while remaining true to the original spirit of the place. It was looking a little tired; now it’s stunning! Shiny black and white tiles and bare brick walls, vermouth barrels and retro touches, as well as a beautiful terraza on the tree-lined street in front.
The very first word I learned in Madrid was "caña", which is a small glass of tap beer. I was so shy speaking Spanish when I first got here, but I managed that word - can-ya! It's such a good word to know in Madrid, especially in the summer, when what you really want is a nice cold beer! They have excellent cañas in La Mina, wine by the glass from a good selection, as well as the ubiquitous vermut.
Back in 1990 I used to come to La Mina for their speciality - grilled prawns. I was delighted to see after the re-opening that prawns are still on the menu, as well as pincho morunos (grilled marinated pork on a skewer), tostas and conserved seafood. So make sure you don’t miss this Madrid old-school classic!
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
VETA is the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track?
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Don’t worry about collecting and counting plates - there’s an “all you can eat” lunchtime menu, you can fill your boots for a very reasonable fixed price.
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His favourite time seemed to be that magic hour when the sun is sinking low in the West and turns everything a golden pinky hue.
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Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
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"Konnichiwa" is a Japanese street food restaurant in Madrid. Their specialty is the ramen with the egg, which they cook with a blowtorch at your table!
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"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
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"Harvey's Cocktail Bar" in Madrid makes me feel as if I've entered an American vintage speakeasy. Unlike new hip retro chains, this one feels authentic...
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"La Hummuseria" is a vegetarian restaurant in Madrid made for hummus fans like me! My favourite's the one with mushrooms. Protip: say yes to the egg...
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"Quesería Cultivo" is a cheese shop in Madrid where you can find a wide artisanal selection. My protip: do get some bread from two numbers down the street.
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"Sala de Despiece" Madrid defines itself as "a bar with a kitchen and a great tasting of raw materials". Once I was there I understood.
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"Bodega de la Ardosa" in Madrid is 'castizo' -- pure, genuine. This kind of bar is in danger of extinction, so enjoy it while it's still alive!
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"Bosco de Lobos" in Madrid is 'a bar that serves Italian food in a garden. It's a brunch and meeting place...' My favorite though, is their 'library'...
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243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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