Taberna Los Castizos: A Madrid Gem You Won’t Want to Miss
Right then, fellow food fanatics, let me tell you about a little gem I stumbled upon in Madrid. Now, I know Casa Lucio is all the rage, with its huevos rotos and celebrity clientele. But sometimes, you’ve got to venture off the well-trodden path, right? That’s how I found myself across the street at Taberna Los Castizos, and let me tell you, it was a bloody brilliant decision.
First impressions? This place has got that modern-rustic vibe down pat. Think exposed timber beams, rough-hewn stone walls, and these massive copper vats above the bar, practically overflowing with golden beer. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to settle in for a good long session, with no rush to be anywhere else.
The Food
We were seated at a table near the window, perfect for people-watching and soaking up the lively atmosphere of Cava Baja. The lunchtime crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, all drawn in by the promise of authentic Spanish cuisine.
We kicked things off with some classic tapas: croquetas, golden and crispy on the outside, with a bechamel filling that was creamy, cheesy, and utterly moreish. And of course, no Spanish feast is complete without patatas bravas. These chunky potatoes, drizzled with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli, were the perfect balance of crispy and fluffy, with a fiery kick that woke up the taste buds.
Now, for the main event. We were feeling peckish, so we opted for the mixed paella to share. And boy, oh boy, did it deliver. This wasn’t your touristy, overcooked paella, mind you. This was the real deal, with perfectly cooked rice, each grain separate and infused with flavour. The seafood was succulent, with plump prawns, tender mussels, and chunks of fresh fish. And that smoky flavour? Ah, that’s the magic of a proper paella pan, cooked over an open fire.
The Wine
The waiter, a top bloke with a twinkle in his eye and a genuine passion for his craft, recommended a Rioja Crianza to accompany our feast. And let me tell you, it was worth every extra euro. Smooth, fruity, with a hint of oak and a long finish, it paired perfectly with the paella, enhancing the flavours of the seafood and the smoky rice.
The atmosphere in Taberna Los Castizos was buzzing. We were surrounded by locals, enjoying their mid-week lunches, chatting away in Spanish, and generally having a good time. It was the kind of authentic experience you just can’t get in those tourist traps crammed with selfie sticks and overpriced sangria.
Here, it was all about the food, the wine, and the company. The clatter of cutlery, the laughter of friends, the clinking of glasses – it was a symphony of Spanish life, and we were right in the middle of it.
CASA LUCIO? BEEN THERE, DONE THAT. FOR A TRUE TASTE OF MADRID, HEAD TO TABERNA LOS CASTIZOS. TRUST ME, YOUR TASTE BUDS WILL THANK YOU.
And to top it all off, at the end of our meal, the waiter brought us a couple of glasses of Licor 43 on the house. This sweet, vanilla-infused liqueur is a Spanish classic, and it was the perfect way to end our meal. Imagine a warm hug in a glass, with hints of citrus, spice, and a touch of caramel. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to say “olé!” and do a little flamenco dance (which, thankfully, I refrained from doing, much to Louise’s relief).
Now, let me tell you a bit more about this Cava Baja street where Taberna Los Castizos resides. This historic street, dating back to the Middle Ages, is a haven for traditional taverns and restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you can wander for hours, popping into different establishments, sampling tapas, and soaking up the local atmosphere.
Forget the Gran Vía with its chain stores and tourist hordes. Cava Baja is where the real Madrid comes alive, where you can rub shoulders with locals, experience authentic Spanish cuisine, and feel the pulse of the city.
Highly Recommend
All in all, Taberna Los Castizos was a winner. Great food, friendly service, and a proper Spanish atmosphere. If you’re looking for an authentic dining experience in Madrid, this is the place to be.
Top Tip: Take the metro to the La Latina station and wander down Cava Baja. This street is lined with traditional Spanish restaurants, and Taberna Los Castizos is right in the heart of it, ready to welcome you with open arms and a delicious plate of paella.
So, there you have it, another culinary adventure ticked off the list. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off for a siesta. All this talk of food and wine has made me rather sleepy.
Have you stumbled upon any hidden culinary gems in Madrid? Share your discoveries in the comments below!
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