Where To Eat When You’re Visiting Madrid
"Lhardy is the gaudiest, most regal luxury restaurant in town and one the city's oldest—it dates back to 1839. You’ll find stately chandeliers, heavy velvet drapes, stained glass, twisting staircases, and endless gold and silver throughout the two-story space. The Spanish-French food, which includes their hearty Madrileño stew and sauced up fishes and meats, doesn't quite live up to the grandiose upstairs dining, especially for the grandiose prices. The move is to stick to their more casual “tienda” (don’t worry, the old-school glamor carries over to this chandeliered bar area and shop) to throw back the house wine, cava, or sherry served in fancy crystal glasses, and buy some of it to take home. Pair your bubbles with their famed puff pastries stuffed with sausage, veal, or cheese before asking staff for a quick view of the showy upstairs." - lori zaino
