Lhardy

Step through the doors of Lhardy and you’re transported back to 1839, when this grand establishment first opened its doors to Madrid’s discerning diners. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living museum of Spanish culinary heritage, complete with stately chandeliers, heavy velvet drapes, stained glass windows, and enough gold and silver details to make royalty feel at home. The ornate two-story space feels like dining inside a palace, with twisting staircases connecting the various rooms and corners of this historic gem.

While the formal upstairs dining room serves Spanish-French cuisine including their legendary Madrileño stew and elegantly sauced fish and meat dishes, the real insider move is to head to the “tienda” on the ground floor. This more casual bar area and shop retains all the chandeliered glamour of its upstairs sibling but at a more accessible price point. Here you can throw back glasses of house wine, cava, or sherry served in fancy crystal glassware while soaking in the atmosphere.

The must-try items at the bar are their celebrated puff pastries—flaky, buttery parcels stuffed with your choice of sausage, veal, or cheese. These bite-sized treasures pair perfectly with whatever you’re sipping and give you a taste of Lhardy’s culinary heritage without the full dining room commitment. Before you leave, ask the staff for a quick peek at the showy upstairs rooms—they’re happy to show off the space, and it’s worth seeing even if you’re not dining there.

For those seeking an authentic slice of old Madrid, Lhardy delivers an experience that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere. Whether you’re popping in for a quick sherry and pastry at the bar or treating yourself to a special occasion dinner upstairs, this venerable institution offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Consider picking up a bottle of their house wine or sherry to take home as a souvenir of your visit to one of Europe’s most enduring dining destinations.