Playing Solo

Imagine stepping into someone’s cozy living room, except there are only eight seats and you’re about to embark on a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. That’s the essence of Playing Solo, a hidden gem tucked away in Madrid’s trendy Malasaña neighborhood. This intimate restaurant flips the script on traditional fine dining, trading stuffy formality for an experience that feels refreshingly personal and unguarded.

The heart of Playing Solo is its seasonal 10-course tasting menu, a thoughtfully crafted journey through flavors that draw inspiration from Spanish ingredients, Japanese fermentation techniques, and French cooking methods. The chef works in plain view, creating each dish with precision while explaining the story behind every plate. One visit might showcase an entire progression of tomato-inspired creations, while another could feature tender Galician octopus available only during certain weeks of the year. For those who prefer plant-based fare, a dedicated vegetarian tasting menu offers equally inventive options.

What makes dining here truly special is the sense of connection. With just eight seats facing the open kitchen, you’ll watch as ingredients are sliced, whisked, and delicately plated right before your eyes. The wine pairing complements the experience beautifully, though the extensive 22-page wine list offers plenty of opportunity to curate your own selections. For carnivores, the butter-soft wagyu remains a year-round add-on that’s absolutely worth considering.

Playing Solo is perfect for those seeking something beyond the ordinary—a date night that demands conversation, a celebration that calls for intimacy, or simply an evening where great food takes center stage without pretension. Just be sure to book ahead; with only eight seats, this is one table that fills up fast.