Ernest Hemingway was a prolific American writer and journalist, known for his adventurous lifestyle and memorable literary works. He spent a considerable amount of time in Madrid, Spain, where he found inspiration for some of his most famous writings.
However, Hemingway’s love for Madrid was not just limited to its cultural and artistic offerings; he also had a deep appreciation for the city’s culinary scene. In this article, we’ll explore the places where Hemingway ate in Madrid and how they influenced his writing.
The Botin Restaurant
One of Hemingway’s favorite restaurants in Madrid was the Botin restaurant. This establishment has been around since 1725 and is known for its delicious roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado) and roasted lamb (cordero asado). In fact, Botin holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world.
Hemingway first visited Botin in the 1920s, and it quickly became one of his go-to spots whenever he was in town. He even mentioned it in his novel “The Sun Also Rises,” where he describes a meal of roast suckling pig at Botin that leaves his characters feeling satisfied and content.
The Casa Alberto
Another popular haunt of Hemingway’s was Casa Alberto, a tavern located in the historic Barrio de las Letras neighborhood. This establishment has been serving up traditional Spanish cuisine since 1827 and remains a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Hemingway frequented Casa Alberto during his time in Madrid, often stopping by for a plate of huevos rotos con jamón (broken eggs with ham) or some grilled sardines. The tavern’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it an ideal spot for Hemingway to relax after a long day of writing.
The Cocktails at Museo Chicote
While Hemingway was known for his love of food, he was also a fan of a good cocktail. One of his favorite places to grab a drink in Madrid was Museo Chicote, a historic bar that has been operating since 1931.
At Museo Chicote, Hemingway would often order his signature drink – a combination of gin and vermouth known as a “vermut de grifo.” He even mentioned the bar in his novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” where one of his characters orders a vermut de grifo while on leave from the Spanish Civil War.
Conclusion
Ernest Hemingway’s love for Madrid extended beyond its literary and artistic offerings, and he found great joy in exploring the city’s culinary scene. From traditional Spanish taverns to historic restaurants, Hemingway had an appreciation for the simple pleasures in life – good food and good company.
If you’re ever in Madrid, be sure to check out some of the places that Hemingway frequented. They offer not only delicious food but also a glimpse into the life and times of one of America’s greatest writers.