Sala Canal Isabel II by Rios Rosas metro in Madrid is a great example of an imaginatively re-purposed space. This beautiful tower was originally built to deal with the poor water pressure in this neighbourhood. Made redundant by improvements in engineering and plumbing, it was eventually transformed into an uber-cool gallery space in 1986, destined specifically for contemporary photography and audio-visual exhibitions, although occasionally other arts are featured.
For example, on show currently is a highly popular exhibition of gowns from the studio of Spanish couture designer Lorenzo Caprile. The walls have been painted black, and spotlights on the opulent gowns make a dramatic display. Opened mid-October 2024, you can catch it up to March 30 2025. For the first time, you can reserve tickets online, which I recommend. It’s very easy — just search for “exposición Caprile Lorenzo” and reserve your free tickets for up to 5 people.
It really is a truly unique gallery where you can see a beautifully curated exhibition in under an hour — perfect for days when you fancy a small dose of culture!
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Although it’s a Galician restaurant, they do an excellent paella mixta (chicken and seafood) and arroz negro, flavoured and coloured with squid ink.
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The apartment block this cafe sits under is an ugly beauty and I love it, not least for the exuberant planters that are an integral part of the building.
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I didn’t think Madrid was lacking anything but now I’ve found "Mazál Bagels and Café" I’m wondering how I survived without its bagels all these years!
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What sets this bar apart is its exceptional handling of ingredients, creating dishes that sing with Andalusian flair—a nod to Manu's roots.
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They have a wide selection of wines to suit all pockets, and you can also discover some weirder flavours if your tastes run to the unique...
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"Mo de Movimiento" in Madrid offers a new take on the restaurant business - sustainable organic ingredients, recycled materials and second opportunities!
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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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243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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