In Bilbao there are not residents, there are txikiteros. Txikiteros are names given to those who drink txikitos, small glasses of wine served in the bars.
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You can't survive on monuments, routes and museum visits alone. At some point you have to stop and recharge your batteries, and that time is now.
The time has come to talk about other types of monuments, about aspects of everyday life in Madrid that you should get to know before you leave: its gastronomy. By now you've probably already tried the calamari or squid sandwich, either at the exit of Atocha station or in Plaza Mayor. Fantastic.
On this occasion, however, it is time to take a leap further and delve into an institution within Madrid's gastronomy and culture: the cocido madrileño (Madrid stew).
There are many elements that make this dish an unparalleled culinary experience. The quality of its components, the cooking time, the clay of its containers, the years of experience of those who cook it, everything adds up and everything is important to be able to enjoy this morsel of Madrid's history.
Carrera de San Jerónimo, 8
Credits: ELLE
Let's start with a real heavyweight in Madrid's cuisine: Lhardy. It opened its doors in 1839 and since then it has not stopped serving food to everyone who has wanted to enjoy an authentic flavour. This establishment is the living history of Madrid, and we are not the only ones to say so.
Its name has appeared in works by such literary greats as Benito Pérez Galdós and Azorín. That history, of course, does not come cheap. In fact, it is the most expensive restaurant where you can enjoy this dish, at around 65€.
The elements in their cocido are typical, not so much the way it is served; in two vuelcos. This means in two parts. First, the soup is served with the chicken. Then, the second vuelco consists of the vegetables, the delicious chickpeas and the rest of the meat. It is always accompanied by tomato sauce.
Calle de la Ruda, 5
Credits: restaurantescentenarios
We continue with the great legends of stews; Malacatín. It has been in operation since 1895 and its fame as an essential in Madrid has not been given away. Its small interior size only adds to its legend. Here, whoever is not quick, does not eat.
It is served in the most traditional way, in three vuelcos. Although each and every one of them is marvellous, its tasty soup stands out above the rest of the elements. Although if you are one of those who can't wait and don't enjoy eating each vuelco separately, which we recommend, you can ask for it all to be brought together.
Their portions are generous, perhaps as a nod to the days when their motto was "whoever finishes it doesn't pay". Although it is one of the restaurants that has been serving stews for the longest time and has kept its traditions the most, this has not prevented it from evolving, as they have a delivery service.
Calle Padilla, 54
Credits: plateselector
One of the most loved restaurants by customers, it is impossible to see anyone leave Casa Carola with a bad face. They follow the tradition since 1998 and serve, with three vuelcos, a cocido madrileño that could well be listed as an obligatory stop for anyone visiting Madrid.
They have a special menu in which they serve the much-prized cocido madrileño, with its three vuelcos, as well as dessert, coffee and a shot of liquor to round off a lunch you won't forget so easily. Their dishes are a real pleasure for the senses.
Calle de la Bola, 5
Credits: revistagq
From the aforementioned Malacatín, one of the most prestigious and well-known places to enjoy cocido madrileño. To the traditional list of ingredients: bacon, potatoes, chorizo and chickpeas, they add a new and completely different element: charcoal.
It is cooked over holm oak charcoal for more than four hours in a clay pot. And from there, directly to the diner's table, who will only have to let themselves be carried away by one of the best tasting stews in the whole country.
Plaza de España, 6, 2º planta
Credits: descarorestaurante
Three courses that, as long as you can control your stomach, you can repeat without any problem. El Descaro stands out for the flavour and affection of its dishes as well as the friendliness and professionalism of its service.
Its location is almost unbeatable; magnificent views of Plaza España. They have a stew menu that includes dessert - don't hesitate to order the cheesecake as long as it's still available - for around 25€. Quantity, quality, great service, good views and good price, can anyone give more?
Calle Santa Engracia, 161
Credits: eldebate
The atmosphere and the bullfighting décor are perfect, because it takes a lot of courage to stand in front of the cocido madrileño at La Gran Tasca, with the intention of leaving the plate empty.
Since 1942 they have been serving an impressive soup and large quantities of chickpeas, meat and vegetables in two bowls. In fact, being aware of their large portions, they let you take what's left over with you. And don't forget dessert, their leche frita, fried milk, is on a par with the best of their vuelcos.
Calle Velarde, 24
Créditos: tripadvisor
By saying that it is located in the Malasaña neighbourhood, we think it will give you an idea of how unique the cocido madrileño you are about to taste is going to be. Within the walls of the Verbena Bar, the avant-garde is mixed with the traditional, without losing any of its traditional touch.
Good price, good quality and a lot of love, you can see it in the more than four hours of simmering that they are creating this unique delicacy. You have the option of having it by the side or all together and, to top it all off, being vegetarian is no reason not to try a good cocido. 100% Malasaña.
Plaza del General Vara de Rey, 11
Credits: tripadvisor
We end our list with the most familiar option. A neighbourhood restaurant, with simple décor and small dimensions that make it the cosiest corner of all our options.
The warmth in the treatment and preparation of their dishes, especially the cocido, which is what brought us here, will make you believe that your grandmother is the cook and in charge of the place. Serving quality dishes since 1920 at more than reasonable prices. You can enjoy a complete cocido madrileño for 15 euros. Bueno, bonito y barato, good, nice and cheap.
