When it comes to Spanish cuisine, paella is one of the most popular and well-known dishes. Many people assume that the best paella can be found in coastal cities like Barcelona or Valencia, but what about Madrid? Is there good paella to be had in the Spanish capital?
The short answer is yes, there is definitely good paella in Madrid. However, it’s important to know where to look and what to expect.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that Madrid is not traditionally known for its paella. The dish has its roots in Valencia, and while it has certainly become a mainstay of Spanish cuisine as a whole, different regions of Spain have their own unique takes on the dish.
That being said, there are still plenty of places in Madrid where you can find a delicious plate of paella. One option is Casa de Valencia, a restaurant located in the heart of the city that specializes in Valencian cuisine. Their paella is made with traditional ingredients like saffron and rabbit (although they also offer seafood and vegetarian options), and it’s considered by many to be some of the best in town.
Another popular spot for paella in Madrid is La Barraca, which has been serving up rice dishes since 1935. Their menu features a variety of options including classic Valencian-style paella as well as more modern interpretations like black rice with squid ink.
Of course, these are just two examples out of many. There are countless restaurants throughout Madrid that serve up their own take on this iconic dish.
When searching for good paella in Madrid (or anywhere else), it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, look for restaurants that specialize in Spanish cuisine or specifically mention their paella on the menu – this will give you an idea of how seriously they take this particular dish.
It’s also important to remember that paella is typically served as a communal dish meant to be shared among several people. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to order a minimum of two portions or more depending on the restaurant.
In terms of price, paella can range from relatively affordable to quite pricey depending on the ingredients and the location of the restaurant. Expect to pay anywhere from €15-€30 per person for a plate of paella.
In conclusion, while Madrid may not be as famous for its paella as some other Spanish cities, there are still plenty of places where you can find a delicious plate of this iconic dish. Just do your research, keep an open mind, and be prepared to share!