At LOCK & enjoy!, through this article, we invite you to discover the oldest bars in Madrid. Prepare your route and enjoy the history of the capital with the places we describe in this post.
Tour of the Oldest Bars in Madrid
The city of Madrid has a broad gastronomic offering, and evidence of this are its numerous bars and restaurants, some of which carry a significant legacy. Choose the ones you like the most to taste Madrid’s cuisine and also to learn a bit more about their history.
Antonio Sánchez Tavern
Although the exact year it first opened its doors is not known, most historians place it around 1787 according to a cadastral survey carried out under the reign of King Philip II.
Throughout its history, this tavern was a meeting place for intellectuals, writers, and artists, such as Pío Baroja and Marañón. It owes its current name to Mr. Antonio Sánchez, who purchased it in 1884.
It has a broad menu highlighting Madrid stew, tripe, or oxtail. You can also enjoy a daily menu for €14.50.
Near this historic site, we have lockers in La Latina for you to leave your belongings before starting your tour of the oldest bars in Madrid.
Casa Alberto
Casa Alberto Restaurant is located in the heart of Madrid, specifically at 18 Huertas Street. It was founded in 1827, as indicated by a plaque placed by the Madrid City Council at the restaurant’s entrance.
The evolution of this business is a vivid example of the social changes that occurred in Madrid society. For instance, in the late 19th century, it was frequented by street musicians, ragmen, and florists. However, from 1924 onwards, the clientele became more select, hence its tapas became a benchmark in the city. It’s also worth mentioning that the arrival of the railway in Madrid allowed this restaurant to serve all types of seafood.
You can choose to sit down and taste one of their famous traditional dishes, such as snails Madrid style, beef meatballs, or stewed oxtail. Another option is to find a spot at the bar to try any of the homemade portions they offer.
Casa Labra
Casa Labra is a reference in the political history of Madrid, as it was here that one of the most important national political parties was founded in 1879.
What stands out is that there are almost no tables, so it is normal to eat standing up. It is worth noting that it maintains its structure and decoration as they were originally. One particularly eye-catching feature is a period mirror with the inscription: “He who drinks well, does what he should,” referring to the obligation to pay for what is consumed.
It offers unusual tapas compared to any other bar in Madrid, where the pickled tuna skewer or its creamy cod croquettes stand out.
At LOCK & enjoy! we recommend that you arrive early, as it is always full of people during peak hours.
Very close to Casa Labra, we also have lockers in Plaza Mayor, just a 5-minute walk away. With us, you can reserve a locker for the hours you need.
Bodegas Ricla
This is one of the oldest wine bars in Madrid, founded in 1867. The name refers to the town of Ricla (province of Zaragoza), where the founders originated. It is also important to note as a historical fact that it served as a refuge for the residents of Cuchilleros Street during the Civil War.
This venue maintains its full essence, and proof of this is that there is no TV or coffee machine. If you prefer a cozy and familiar atmosphere, this is your place, as its small size allows you to have a snack while quietly chatting with your partner or friends. The elements that bring this tavern to life are also very striking (brass taps, tiled skirting boards, jugs where they serve wine and sherry, etc.).
Although at first glance it seems a place to enjoy a good vermouth, they also prepare top-quality portions and tapas, including anchovies, cured meats, or cod in oil.
Botín Restaurant
You cannot leave Cuchilleros Street without visiting Botín Restaurant, considered the oldest in Madrid (1725); it holds a Guinness World Records certification to prove it.
This venue has a very important link with the world of literature. For instance, Ernest Hemingway frequently visited during his travels through Spain, so much so that he developed a friendship with the father of the current owners. Moreover, Benito Pérez Galdós was also a regular, as evidenced by his mention of this restaurant in one of his most famous works, Fortunata and Jacinta.
It offers quality products on its extensive gastronomic menu: baby eels, Burgos blood sausage, Madrid-style tripe, etc. However, it is a gastronomic reference for its roasts and grills of all kinds of meats (chicken, partridge, lamb, sirloin, etc.).
Get to know the oldest bars in the capital with our lockers in Madrid to move freely around the city. If you are on holiday in the city, take the opportunity to enjoy any of the tourist activities in Madrid. We await you!
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