Welcome to the vibrant and lively city of Madrid, where food enthusiasts can indulge in a delightful culinary experience. One of the must-visit destinations for food lovers is the famous street of Cava Baja. Located in the heart of Madrid’s historic center, Cava Baja is home to some of the best tapas bars in the city. In this beginner’s guide, we will explore the top tapas bars on Cava Baja and help you make the most of your visit.
1. Taberna II Bacco
Our first stop on Cava Baja is Taberna II Bacco. This cozy bar offers a wide variety of traditional Spanish tapas. Be sure to try their mouthwatering jamón ibérico, which is a type of cured ham, or their perfectly grilled pulpo a la gallega, also known as Galician-style octopus.
Pro tip: Pair your tapas with a glass of cava, a sparkling Spanish wine, to elevate your dining experience.
2. Casa Lucas
Casa Lucas is a renowned tapas bar known for its innovative culinary creations. Here, you can enjoy a fusion of traditional and modern flavors. Don’t miss their signature dish, the tempura prawns with curry mayonnaise. It’s a true explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Pro tip: Casa Lucas tends to get crowded, so make sure to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. It’s definitely worth the wait!
3. Lamiak
If you’re a fan of seafood, Lamiak is the perfect place for you. This charming tapas bar specializes in Basque cuisine and offers a wide selection of pintxos, which are small snacks typically served on bread. Indulge in their delicious bacalao al pil-pil, a dish made with codfish, or their irresistible gamba roja, which are succulent red prawns.
Pro tip: To fully enjoy the flavors of the seafood, pair your tapas with a crisp glass of Albariño, a refreshing white wine from Galicia.
4. La Chilostra
La Chilostra is a traditional Spanish tavern that will transport you back in time. This cozy bar is famous for its hearty and flavorful tapas. Don’t miss their solomillo al whisky, a dish made with tender beef fillet cooked in whisky sauce. Another favorite is their patatas bravas, crispy potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and alioli.
Pro tip: Save some room for their decadent desserts, like their creamy flan or their indulgent chocolate cake.
5. El Sur
Our last recommendation on Cava Baja is El Sur, a tapas bar that combines traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. They offer a wide variety of tapas, from classic favorites to innovative creations. Try their croquetas de jamón, which are deep-fried ham croquettes, or their delicious grilled vegetables with goat cheese.
Pro tip: If you’re in the mood for something sweet, El Sur is known for their mouthwatering tarta de queso, a creamy cheesecake that will satisfy your dessert cravings.
Conclusion
Cava Baja in Madrid is a paradise for food lovers, with its wide variety of tapas bars offering an array of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a fan of traditional Spanish cuisine, or looking for innovative creations, you are sure to find something to suit your taste buds on Cava Baja. So, take a stroll along this vibrant street, hop from bar to bar, and savor the best tapas Madrid has to offer. ¡Buen provecho!
