La Cava Baja: Madrid's Best Tapas Street

Calle de la Cava Baja, in the heart of the historic barrio La Latina, is one of the oldest streets in Madrid and is well known as an excellent place to tapear––that is, go out for tapas. This traditional way of eating is a must while in Madrid, and there is no better place in the city to hop between bars sampling different small plates than this street.

Read on for a guide to some of the best bars and restaurants of La Cava Baja.

Casa Lucio

This restaurant is one of the most famous in the city and is frequented by Spanish celebrities and public figures. Opened by the prominent restaurateur Lucio Blázquez, whose culinary career started at the age of 12 working in this same space when it was the centuries-old Mesón del Segoviano, the interior is evocative of a traditional taberna of the 18th century, right down to the always lively atmosphere. The menu includes a number of classic Castilian dishes both large and small, but a particular standout is the famous huevos estrellados, a simple yet mouthwatering plate of perfectly fried eggs over crispy potatoes and topped with jamón serrano. Don’t leave without trying these.

Casa Lucas

This small, intimate restaurant is famous for its tostas, small toasts topped with all manner of combinations. The menu here is traditional yet innovative, and it is a great place to pair some small plates with wine, beer, or vermouth.

La Perejila

This bustling bar is always alive with energy and is an obligatory stop on your tapas route. Here you will find a variety of dishes from Andalucía in southern Spain; a particular standout are the succulent albóndigas en salsa (meatballs). Pair your tapas here with a glass from their wide selection of wines or a crisp vermouth on tap.

Posada de la Villa

Housed in an original 17th-century posada (inn), this traditional asador is famous for its suckling lamb prepared in a wood-burning oven. The interior of the three-story restaurant is simply stunning, and a dinner here is surely among the most memorable dining experiences in Madrid.

Taberna La Concha

Another great stop for tapas, but you must try the house-made vermouth. It is simply spectacular.