How to recognise a good one
The squid is floured and fried to order, served in a baguette roll with no sauce: ask for a wedge of lemon or mayonnaise if you like, but regulars eat it plain. It is good when the bread stays crisp and the squid is not greasy.
Where to eat it
| Place | Area | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| La Campana (calle de Botoneras) | Plaza Mayor | The classic, steps from the square; queues at peak times |
| Casa Rúa | Near the Plaza Mayor | Quick counter and a local atmosphere |
| El Brillante | Atocha | A sandwich before or after the train or the Reina Sofía |
Avoid terraces directly on the Plaza Mayor: the same plate is often dearer there. Counter places fill up between 1 and 3 pm, and after 8 pm.
Our advice
To compare several Madrid specialities in one outing, a walking food tour is more complete than a single sandwich. See also our guide where to eat near the Plaza Mayor.
Going further
Complete with where to eat in Madrid, the Plaza Mayor and meal times.
