I’ve never seen such constant and simultaneous talking, smoking, drinking and eating as in Madrid.
(click restaurant name or point of interest)
Since the last update I have eaten much too much. In December I had a wonderful trip to Madrid (via London). The paintings in the Prado were the main “feast” of each day, usually followed by a meal at a Cervezeria nearby. I’ve never seen such constant and simultaneous talking, smoking, drinking and eating as in Madrid. The most memorable food was jamon Iberico, with pellets of dry crackers, olives, a fresh salad and a glass of young wine. I also discovered a Basque apertif called “Patzaran”. The hotel was the Suecia — a joy at 70 euros per night.
In the short visit to London, it was Rasa and the River Cafe. But having bought the Casa Moro cookbook, I regret not having eaten there. Next time.
January was Mexico. A week at the Twin Dolphin in Cabo San Lucas (our favorite, the Hotel Cabo San Lucas has closed). The TD is wonderful — delicious food, though we most often had a couple of tacos in a dive for dinner, and avocado sandwiches for lunch.
Mexico City was a revelation. Delicious food at Aguila y Sol. Very chic, hip and also tasty. I loved eating potato chips and chicharron on the street with lime and salt.
Then to San Francisco. Dinner at Piperade was a reminder of Spain. It is a great way to eat off many plates which we all ordered en-masse. The best old treat was an oyster medley, a salted cod casserole and an espresso granita at Zuni (along with a dry muscat from Navarro). Also a fine bread pudding with fruit for breakfasat at Bar Tartine. Shopping at the farmer’s market is the best (missed my favorite which is Alemany Blvd., but got to the Ferry Building and bought 3 jars of burnt caramel sauce from Recchiuti (still unopened). Fresh crab, bread and salad at Fifi’s was delicious.
I had better get on the treadmill now.