Situated just outside one of the arched entrances of the Plaza Mayor, you’ll find Taberna Corrientes. Located on a pedestrian-friendly passageway, the tall buildings that flank the taberna (complete with intricate wrought-iron balconies) will stop you in your tracks. The location is picture-perfect. This is one of Madrid’s oldest areas and Spain at its best.
The row of tables shaded by white umbrellas signal your arrival at Taberna Corrientes.
Location: 4 Calle Toledo, Madrid, [amazon_textlink asin=’1631216708′ text=’Spain’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’theyums-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’df9fcdc9-8614-11e8-8323-0d55c618f6ae’]
Menu: From a traditional cheese omelet or scrambled eggs to exotic fried squid rings or spicy octopus, the menu is diverse. Its offerings will take you from brunch to late night tapas and drinks. A variety of steaks, hamburgers, pasta, and salads are available. There’s always a menu del dia which can be a great value and usually includes a beverage.
Some of the more interesting items on the tapas and small portion menu include: minced meat filled empanadas with straw chips, homemade cheese croquettes, and fried peppers with garlic mayonnaise.
A well-rounded selection of Spanish and Argentinian wines, cocktails, and a variety of beer by the bottle or on tap are offered. This wouldn’t be Spain without large pitchers of Sangria available from open to close.
Thoughts: We stopped in for a late breakfast. Instead of sitting outside we chose a table inside, a good decision. The decor is eclectic, and you’ll be tempted to walk through the restaurant as I did. Dance steps are painted on the planked floor, vintage photographs, posters, and interesting artwork cover the walls. There’s a lot to take in.
The Tavern is larger than it appears. There’s a separate dining area away from the bar if you are looking for something more intimate.
We opted for the classic breakfast, a steal at €6.50 per person. Included in the price: two fried eggs, bacon, bread, fries, and coffee. Not the healthiest option but absolutely delicious. Our waiter felt Sangria was the ideal companion to our meal, we passed on that.
Tip: Portions are large in Spain. If ordering a meal, always arrive with an appetite.
Although the location might seem touristy, this is a restaurant frequented by locals. While eating breakfast, quite a few patrons stopped in for a drink and to chat with the waitstaff. To me, that’s always a good sign. Even though it was early, the music was cranked up. We agreed this would be a fun spot in the evening.
The kitchen never closes which is unusual in Spain. You can grab a snack or a full meal at any time.
Price Range: Food and drink are reasonable, especially when you factor in the quantity of food on your platter. Tapas and mixed portions (for sharing) are €3.50 to €20, the average is around €9. Pastas are €8.50 – €9. €7.50 for a cheeseburger, €19 for a grilled sirloin. In the seafood category, the most expensive item is the spicy octopus with potatoes at €17. A bottle of wine will set you back €12 to €31. The average glass is €3.50.
Tip: Most items on the menu can be ordered as a half portion. If in doubt, ask your waiter.
As hopeless Francophiles, she and her husband are planning to move to France; spring 2019.
Barb's articles have appeared in a variety of publications including The Good Life France Magazine, International Living, Fund Your Life Overseas, and more.
She's a member of The International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA).
Visit her blog at; Chasingthenextchapter.com
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