Casa Labra
A historic tavern from 1860 near Puerta del Sol, where standing at the bar to eat fried cod chunks and cod croquettes is a Madrid tradition.
Opened in 1860, this historic tavern is located right next to Puerta del Sol, retaining its curved wooden storefront, zinc bar, and marble tables. The Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) was founded here in 1879. The signatures are freshly fried cod chunks (tajadas de bacalao) and cod cream croquettes, alongside meat empanadas, potato omelets, and cheese and ham platters. The classic way to experience it is to order a small beer (caña) with a couple of pieces of cod at the bar, and leave after eating them standing up or at the entrance. No reservations are needed, but queues can be long during peak dining hours and around Christmas. The average cost is about €16-30 per person, and even cheaper if you only eat tapas at the bar. It is a few minutes' walk from Sol Metro Station.
Opening hours
Daily 11:30-15:30, 18:30-22:30 (may extend to 23:30 from Thursday to Sunday evening), closed on January 1
Nearby sights
- Puerta del Sol
- Monastery of Las Descalzas Reales
- Chocolatería San Ginés
- Gran Vía
- Plaza Mayor
- Mercado de San Miguel
- Chueca
- El Rastro Flea Market