Casa Labra

Food was excellent. Grandfather worked there 80 or so years ago so wanted to experience with the family. The pepito de ternera was tender and delicious, so much so that my son went from a no thank you to eating half of mine and ordering his. The fried bacalao - we order another round. Tried the croqueta de bacalao and was pleasantly surprised as well. Very busy place but the food was worth the wait.

Good food! Its very fresh and definitely worth the hype. My recommendation - take 2 pieces of bacalao and 1 croqueta (per person) with a cold caña. Some days it might be busy and their might be a queue. Just have a stroll through the city and come back later in the afternoon, there should be almost no queue.

You have to come here if you are visiting Madrid, the food “ the croquettes” were so delicious we ate a lot. Also if you are lucky you can get a table, if I were you I would get a table first and order a drink and then if you get the person who is responsible in the kitchen, you don’t have to wait the line, they take you first, you have to go there and order but when everyone was waiting in the line, you have the priority, which was amazing in that hot weather. Also the prices were so good like you are not going to believe it can be so cheap, one of the MUST in the Madrid

Stepping into Casa Labra is like stepping back in time—a place where history lingers in the air, where the walls whisper stories of Madrid’s past, and where tradition is not just preserved but revered. This centenary tavern remains a beacon of authenticity, offering a glimpse into an era when craftsmanship, honor, and a commitment to doing things right were paramount. The star of the menu is, without question, the bacalao in its two legendary forms: the fried cod—golden, flaky, and infused with a delicate brininess that speaks of the sea—and the bacalao croquettes, which are nothing short of exquisite. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast between the crisp exterior and the creamy, flavorful interior, a testament to generations of perfected technique. To accompany these delicacies, a vermouth de grifo is the only logical choice. Served just as it should be—cold, aromatic, and with just the right balance of bitterness—it heightens the experience, making each sip feel like a small celebration of Madrid’s culinary heritage. If there’s one drawback, it’s the payment system, which remains oddly disjointed. Having to place an order at a separate register before collecting it at the bar adds an unnecessary layer of complexity, disrupting the otherwise seamless experience. Yet, this is a small inconvenience in a place that embodies the soul of Madrid. The timeless décor, untouched by fleeting trends, transports you to a more dignified era—one where refinement and tradition reigned supreme. Casa Labra is not just a meal; it is an experience, a pilgrimage to the very essence of Madrid’s culinary legacy.

I love places that specialize in one or two dishes and perfect them. The fried Bacala was perfect. Better than any fish at any fish & chip shop anywhere. The croquetas were fantastic, crunchy on the outside and mushy on the inside. Take those, with a cerveza or a vermut and you’re set!

We ordered the tajada de bacalao, the croquetas and also the banderilla the atum. The tajadas definitely a must try, it tasted amazing, so crunchy, the salted cod was delicious and not too salty. The portion size is not the biggest, definitely 2 pieces per person. Don't bother with the banderilla de atum, literally just a piece of tinned tuna with a slice of tomato.

Middle of Spain and some of the best fried cod you can get. Una Caña 🍺 y un bacalao frito es perfecto! Necesita probar! If you are in Madrid you have to try it. It’s in the touristy area of Sol but it’s appreciated by tourists and locals alike it’s just that good! It has been a go to spot t of mine here in Madrid

One crochet, one fish (maybe two, because it was two slices) and one a small glass of beer is €5.55. I think it's cheap. They are mostly busy and there are not just tourists here. It's an old iconic restaurant. However, the atmosphere is not my type, so very loud and uncomfortable.

Casa Labra came up on many of my lists for a must try tapas spot. Clearly, I wasn't the only one who saw these lists, since the place was swarmed with locals, but mostly tourists alike. They have indoor seating and outdoor tables. The outdoor tables are just up for grabs, while there's a separate line for indoor seating. If you just want to grab a bite outside, you get in the line and pick up your food at the counter to the right. There were servers around taking drink orders if you wanted to add something from the bar (a must). We had the croquetas and fried fish with two tintos. I like that each of the items is available by the piece so you can order as many or as little as you want. Prices are definitely reasonable and I thought everything was delicious! The fish does have some bones in it, so be careful!

One of my favorite tapas stop in Madrid. Popular place for a quick grab of cod fish fritters, croquetas and to accompany with a beer. The vermouth is my favorite, so I stuck to the vermouth. Place is behind an old building few steps away from the puerta del sol. This place is popular for the locals and it right across the entrance to the basement grocery department or el Corte inglés. This is a must stop every time we are in Madrid. Check it out!!

This is a high demand restaurant off of Puerta Del Sol that has been in business since 1860. The building is very old. Despite how busy they were, the line moved quickly. The waiter yells the orders so it gets loud. The fried cod, croquettes, and salmon flag are sold by the piece. They are famous for their cod. The cod tasted so fresh that it tasted like the sea. You must get it. We didn't get lemon with our fish. The locals come in and take out for dinner. Some locals eat their fried cod on the front counter or on a thin ledge on the wall. If you get the Veal sandwich, there isn't much meat. It's mostly bread.

Fry cod is good but the service is not friendly. Very rush. That day outside is windy, we seat inside. We only try fish with beer and wine.

The perfect greasy snack or compliment to a drink. The atmosphere is informal, the food is fast and the drinks are plentiful. If the weather holds out, grab a drink from the bar and your fishy snack from the other bar and park yourself at the many silver tables outside. If not, you will have to wait for a table in the back. The fried cod and croquettes go quick, so they are always fresh when you pick them up. Downside is that you have to wait for the next batch if they all get snapped up by the guy ahead of you. I just pointed and paid, seemed to get by on sign language alone.

There was a small wait, and we were seated in a packed room. "Packed" is a good sign. The elegantly dressed waiter showed up as we were settling in with a pad of paper, ready to write down our order. Except...we had no idea what was on the menu. He quickly figured out we didn't know the game here, so he grabbed a menu. He hurried us through the order, which should have bothered me, but somehow it didn't. I took that as more the personality of the restaurant than an insulting interaction. The fried cod and cod croquettes arrived a minute after we ordered. Seriously. The cod croquettes were a silky dream inside, and crispy outside. The fried cod was perfectly sweet, and nicely crispy. How do they do this when the food Is clearly pre made? Shortly after that, the Spanish omelet arrived. I've been used to the American Spanish omelette, with cheese, chopped green peppers , and tomatoes. The traditional Spanish omelette is loaded with potatoes and onions, and no cheese, tomato, or pepper. Salt would have helped, but it was still hearty. The waiter missed our meat pie order, but he brought it out immediately (and I do mean immediately) when we reminded him. The pies were crispy and a bit lacking in depth, but still hearty. The "large" beer was 340 ml (less than 12 oz)...it's in the spirit of tapas that way, since it was cheap (2.6€). Wine was similarly small and cheap. The objective seems to be hurrying customers through so the next customers can get a seat. And, it felt more like I was in a situation comedy than having rude service at a restaurant. We ordered another round of the fish, and eventually we were defeated by the sheer volume of food. Everything is cheap here, with most of what we ordered under 2€. The whole bill for 3 of us, with some to take back to the hotel, was under 50€. Come here for a quick (and I do mean *quick*) meal, stay for the personality of the waitstaff.

Fantastic bacalao! Make sure you don't wait in the queue on the right. Jump to the one on the left, order your food at the station and get your drinks at the bar. So damn tasty!

First food stop on my tapas tour, this place was super busy at 7pm on a weeknight. There is no seating, only a few hightop tables outside and some low shelves where you can balance your beverage while you eat your tapas, or where you balance your tapas while you enjoy your beverage. Absolutely a cool vibe here, but definitely crowded. Founded in 1879 which is amazingly awesome. Get a croquetta and a glass of their Spanish red wine. It was fabulous! [Review 12520 overall, 2310 of 2019.]

This is an "ancient" Madrid eatery, with a small, but specialized menu. But the Food and service was Excellent! We even had an issue and our waiter corrected it instantly without question! The ambiance and decor is antique and yet a favorite place of Locals for its great food and service! Authentic Madrid!

Casa Labra was a historic place located close to Puerta del Sol and you won't miss it since there is always a line there since they open everyday. The wait wasn't bad but watch out there were 2 different lines for dine in with service and dine outside of their restaurant with cheaper price. We ordered their top 3 sellers from the menu which were Tajada de bacalao (fried cod), Croquetas de bacalao (cod croquette) and Atun con Tomate (Tuna steak with tomato). The Fried cod was our favorite and it was juicy inside, the fried layer wasn't crispy but not bad. The cod croquette was creamy like clam chowdor. We didn't like the tuna steak which we thought was not really fresh and hard. All of these you could order by piece and tried the variety. People also recommended their beer which was super cheap.

Learnt about this place through a Travel Show.. and loved the fritters and the croquettes! The cod fritters...were the best. We also tried the Vermouth martini.. (red) Went twice in our stay.. so yes it's worth a visit!

I went here every single night when I was in Madrid. It's tucked down a side street with high top, standing room only tables and a line that moves quickly. Service with a smile and as a solo, American traveler with blonde (albeit fake) hair, I received the biggest of smiles from the workers. Beer, vermut, wine, bacala. The fish is PERFECT and needs nothing but a drink to wash it down with. There is nothing I can say that someone has not already said. I went around 6 every night and was in and out and ready to hit the town! GO! EVERY DAY!

Casa Labra, since 1860, has been famous with locals long before the touristas invaded...so be prepared for a line even on a Monday night. The bar and outside areas: Only €1.50 for their famous deep fried cod tapas, and they are tasty indeed! Only €1 for a small beer or wine to wash it down. Win and win! Except for that wait... Or just get lucky and waltz in like my wife and I did at 9:40pm and score a table at small fancy restaurant area where prices are a bit higher, but you get full sit down service with a friendly waiter, and air conditioning. Casa Labra's menu has a good variety of dinners, but they specialize in hearty Cod entrees: Bacalao a la vizcaína: Cod cooked in a sauce made to the traditional recipe: Serrano ham, onion, paprika, olive oil and garlic (17,50 €)...GOOD! Bacalao con setas y alcaparras: A large piece of cod served in a sauce made of olive oil, leeks, wild mushrooms, capers, tomato purée and orange juice (17,50 €)...GOOD! Gazpacho was light and tasty too, but a bit pricey for 6,50 €. Bottles wine start at only €7 for the house wine...why can't we have nice things like this in America?

One if the best tapas spots in Madrid. Just off Calle Mayor don't let the long lines and large crowds scare you. It moves quickly and once you get to the counter it's fairly easy to order. Get the potato croquettes and cod fritters with a small light beer una caña. Absolutely delicious and plenty of standing height tables inside and outside for a delicious snack before you move on to the next stop.

Food is very good! That's why I went a second time. They let people order food and drinks one hour before closing, than 15 minutes later, they decided it was time to close, and went as far as turning the lights off while we were still eating. This is not how you treat customers. We would have taken the food to go if they told us before we ordered that they were closing at 10:15 instead of 11:00.

Casa Labra is hidden inside a small alley way near El Cortes Ingles department store. Must visit when you are in Madrid. There is often a long line but the line moves fast. They accept credit card as well but it is easier to pay cash. They have a short menu, but would suggest to go with their ham croquettes and definitely their bacalao. Their bacalao are freshly made and steaming hot still when you eat it. Best balacao I've had on my trip so far. They also have cheap alcoholic beverages as well. There is a dine in area behind the counter but separate line.

We found this place on google as it was on the same street as our hotel. It was covered in scaffolding and hardly noticeable but once inside it is bustling with locals and shoppers from nearby places del sol. Staff were so welcoming and very historic interior. We tried all the special appetizers and the Fresh cod and cod fitters were top notch. Try the sherry as an after-dinner drink.

Casa Labra is a 150 yr old restaurant and bar near Puerta del Sol and the birthplace of the Spanish Socialist party. Up front is a small bar area with outside seating (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/_LGLUZQBxB9GT1CNUn2bBg?select=YMiCvz-gnba-Pm7-yZR-yA) and table seating in back. In the bar they have a short list of food items (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/_LGLUZQBxB9GT1CNUn2bBg?select=7F0TBZroNaBv6hzS5CDGew) and are famous for their cod dishes. They have fancier dishes in the restaurant and in the bar serve fried cod (1.25 Euros) and cod croquettes (0.80 Euros), the first two items listed on the chalkboard. Order drinks from the bar and tapas from the counter to the right and pay for each separately. Their reputation is well deserved with both fried cod items perfectly seasoned and cooked (not my pic http://simplespanishfood.typepad.com/.a/6a013487d45991970c0154328889c2970c-800wi). I did prefer the sliced and fried piece over the croquette. I thought this place would be more touristy being just off Puerta del Sol, but appeared to be mostly locals enjoying the fried treasures.

My friend has been promising to take me here for ages and we finally made it, with a friendly welcome from a waiter who has apparently been there since she was a child. Having heard much tell of the salt cod croquetas I actually enjoyed the deep fried cod pieces more. Also I enjoyed telling my friend it reminded me of fish and chips, as she is very proud of what her Madrid specialities. Seriously though, if you like fish and chips you will enjoy it! Wash it all down with some claras and eat it standing up outside for the full messy experience. Fun fact: the Spanish socialist party was founded here.

Long lines but worth the wait for the bacalao and croquetas. Plus a small red wine (that equals about 4-5 sips) is only 1.5€

This place is right there at Plaza del Sol and easy to get to from the metro. When you approach it, don't get scared as I did - you'll soon realize all those people outside are standing around with their food they already ordered. It does look like a haphazard line from afar but it's an organized chaos as they say. There are two lines. One to sit inside and another for carry out / to get your food and then stand at a table outside. The takeaway line moves quickly and they do take credit cards! I made the mistake of not paying attention and pointed to what I thought was the fried cod - I actually got the cod croquette. Of course, I polished off the croquette (ok, not out of this world) and got right back on line for the fried cod. Lucky me, b/c I was the first to get some from a fresh batch and they were quite good! Reviews are on point - pretty good! After the first one, I started to pull the fried batter off and just ate the cod - I probably wouldn't have except I already polished off the croquettes. A must visit when in Sol!

This place is ridiculously good. It's not far off from the busy plaza area, so at first I was cautious it could be a tourist trap, but no, the prices are extremely reasonable and the food, namely the fried cod pieces, are exceptional. My hard-to-please father was also impressed by the freshness of the fish. Not too much seating area in the back, but most people seem to enjoy standing at the bar or the outdoor standing tables to have a quick bite and drink.

I love Cod and this is one of the best! They serve it in two forms; Meaty-flaky and fry breaded. And then puréed and fry breaded. Both are great tasting. It all depends are your texture preference. Check for times because they do close for "siesta" and it is busy when it's is on. One line is for the food and the other for the drinks at the bar. It is great to stand outside at their high tables (no chairs) because you get to share tables with other customers, which many are locals. I'll be back for sure!!!

This is my third trip to Europe (France, Austria and now Madrid). Of the three, my Spanish is the strongest, but I'd still give it a 3/10. Everyone I've met along he way has been lovely and patient with me as I muddled my way through. Not here. Knowing there's usually a wait, I called from my hotel to make a reservation (they take them for after 8:15pm and there's no email address listed). The person on the other end didn't speak English, but I was able to make and confirm the reservation ( I was SOOO proud of myself...lol). When I arrived at the time of my reservation (after a long day of site-seeing), I spoke my carefully rehearsed statement that I had a reservation (and I could see that a table had been reserved for one person, in a corner...super excited). The waiter told me he had nothing for me. When I fumbled in my broken Spanish to explain, he lost his patience with me and made it very clear I should leave. So I did. I really wanted to try their famous cod, so I waited on the Tapas line, got my cod, croquettes and some wine and stood at the bar. The food was fine, but I'd had better.

You'll need to know what you're doing. It would be nice if you could speak Spanish. It's nothing fancy but the food is amazing so try to go if you can! Cod croquettes were so hot and delicious.

First off this place is a total tourist trap.... but so worth it! It's one of those quintessential places you have to visit when in Madrid. The skill in which they get people through the lines is impressive. The fish is so amazing flaky and moist the beer batter used very light. Did I mention the croquettes amazing. The prices were very affordable. My recommendation get a couple beers a few pieces of fish some cheese croquette, and some manchego cheese!

As our first dining experience in Madrid, we stopped here for a snack and tried the infamous Cod Croquettes as well as the Chorizo Bocadillos. The croquettes were really good and for someone like me to say that (who isn't a seafood fan), that speaks loads. The bocadillo was a little less impressive b/c of the hardness of the bread. It was really hard to eat and enjoy.

Very nice Madrilenian place. I had a vermú and some food (Bacalao, Croquetas and Empanadillas) in the small Taberna and it was enjoyable. Service is good and prices are also rather low considering the central location.

If you're strolling around Puerta del Sol, you should make an effort to stop by! Grab some beer and cod tapas, and you've got yourself a very satisfying and delicious meal or snack (depending on how many pieces you get). The cod croquettes and fried cod are so good. The cod croquettes were my favorite. They were perfectly crispy on the outside and very creamy with the bechamel and cod on the inside. The fried cod was pretty salty, but I have to admit I still loved that fried, salty goodness. Both of these options are super inexpensive. The bar area is very small, but there's more seating in the back if you prefer to sit down. Overall, a great spot for tasty and reasonable food.

Casa Labra is a must visit when in Madrid. After walking around plaza Del sol area there is nothing better than having some of the extremely tasty fried cod washed down with a cold beer. Each order comes with 3 strips of perfectly fried cod. The breading still has a crunch and the fish remains flaky and juicy all at the same time. When you get there I suggest walking in and grabbing a beer to have while you wait for your fish. Although it's usually busy the line moves fast but I prefer to wait with a beer in my hand! Enjoy this gem!

Skip-less taberna in the heart of Madrid. This place is a classical opened since 1860 and packed every single day. Their speciality is the Croquetas de Bacalao for an Euro, having it with a glass of Bermú is a must. Highly recommended!

Place is NO frills. Line up near the door for your food orders, obviously get the deliciously salty and hot salt code fritter (watch out for bones). The croquettes were not bad either and the beef empanadas are second favorite. Drinks are decent and service is fast. Also, throw your napkins on the ground!

Very good option for Tapas in Madrid steps from Puerta del Sol. Prices were excellent! The service was good. If I make it back to Madrid, I will visit again.

Great cod croquetas! Cod fried "tajadas", manchego and chorizo tapas! Wonderful place to have a drink and tapas! (Did not have dinner, we were not to hungry). Fresh & affordable!

Was very highly recommend so we tried it. It was good not spectacular. The line you see is for ordering & eating outside. There are about 10 tables inside where you will be served by a waiter. We ordered the standard; fried bacalao & croquettes. The croquettes were very rich and cheesy. Tasty. The fried Bacalao was very fresh & flaky. Basic cod fish flavor & batter. No special flavor. My reason for 3 stars..very very oily. A nice cold beer helps cut the grease, but still. Go for the curiosity, experience & form your own opinion.

Good food and very affordable prices for a tourist location. Highly recommended, its always very crowded and very popular.

Great place for a quick bite. It seems there is always a queue there to grab a bit of delicious cod and a drink. Will have to go back and sample some more. Standing room only - both inside and out.

Cod was pretty good but this place is not a lunch or dinner stop. Okay to grab a quick tapa and beer but you'll want to move onward for anything more substantial.

This place is amazing for first timers in Madrid! Be sure to order the Vermut and the croquettes! Amazing history and beauty within this place. Obsessed. Will be sure to come back!

Increible comida!!! Las croquetas estan que te mueres, los camareros son super amables. Lo recomiendo a todos!

They specialize in their fried cod tapa, and they do it well, Go in anytime, order a piece of cod for 1.3 euro, and get recently fried and piping hot piece of fish with a flaky crust that will have you coming back. Don't know anything else about the place. Don't need to know anything else about the place. If you're in the area and you want some fried cod, whether to eat while relaxing at the bar or whether to snack on while exploring Madrid, Casa Labra has got your ticket.

A unique establishment that not only provides excellent fish, but the opportunity to take 5 star tinder photos. Came here with 8 friends (my girlfriend couldn't come but I have one) and we'll all come again.

After a disappointing snack, we ventured to the nearby Casa Labra for dinner. The food here was outstanding! We got the salt cod fritters, ham croquettes, chorizo and some manchego to go with our red wine. All of it was top notch and I would highly recommend any of them. Scoring a place to stand and dine was a bit tough since it was so crowded, but with some patience and luck, we were on our way. This place is highly rated for a reason, you should definitely check it out if you're near Puerta del Sol.

It's an old, but classic bar that specializes in cod (bacalao). The fried cod and the croquettas were super delicious. :)

While vacationing in Madrid we felt the need to try every highly rated tapas joint in town and this one was by far our favorite! I love the casual feel of this place, you walk in - stand in one line to grab your tapas and then in another to grab your drinks, find a place to stand yourself and get to business! The cod croquettes we're my favorite - oozed of delicious bechamel sauce. The very best part is that you can stuff yourself sick and still only pay under 10 euros. Amazing!

Tis true. All of their bar food was excellent. House beer was great too.

This charming classic is a nice spot for some tapas and a beer or wine on the sidewalk in Puerta del Sol. We enjoyed the specialty of the house, the fried cod, and the cheese croquettes. The manchego cheese is served on a sandwich roll or queso style, and I definitely recommend the queso as the sandwich was a bit boring and too much bread for the small slices. The service was friendly but Spanish only.

Oh those tapas. The Bacalao Croquettes are to die for, as well as the fried shrimp. It get so busy on weekends (especially just before lunch) that the queues sometimes go as far as the street just above. It is on a little street behind Sol, next to El Corte Ingles, very handy if you've been shopping and are in dire need of a cold beer or vermouth and something tasty to bite into.

eat the beef empanadas or the and the croquettes good casual place for a beer and some tapas