"Cilindro is the only place in Madrid where can you feel the peppery punch of Peruvian coconut chicken with aji, drink a glass of wine for less than €3, and experience the warmth of a Spanish tavern, all in one place. This two-story former bar-turned-Spanish/Peruvian-restaurant in Salamanca is all about value—elevated food and good wine at prices straight out of 2019. The ceviche and tiradito are a triumph thanks to their freshness and spice. Fusion plates, like that coconut chicken with aji, combine sweet and savory flavors in a way that just feels natural. And their signature passion fruit cream that drips out of a chunk of coconut, topped with a dollop of mint ice cream, is refreshing on hot days. Their ground-level bar looks just as it probably did decades ago and is where to pop in for a quick ceviche and vino. Or, reserve the chicer downstairs sala, with hanging plants and warm mood lighting, for dinner. " - lori zaino
