Rating: (4/5)
After hours of walking around the Salamanca district, we were looking for a place to cool down and recharge, and El Escondite de Villanueva turned out to be a great stop.
The first thing that catches your eye is the space itself. The soaring ceilings make the restaurant feel bright and open, while the tropical-inspired ceiling panels, stylish lighting, and beautiful herringbone floors give it plenty of personality. The long central bar is definitely the focal point and creates a lively atmosphere whether you're stopping for drinks or a full meal.
We only had sodas and water since we needed a quick break from the Madrid heat, but I took a look through the menu and can see why it's a local favorite. Their Iberian ham, steak tartare, grilled octopus, red tuna tartare, Iberian pork cheeks, and truffled "false risotto" are among the standout dishes, and the kitchen serves food throughout the day.
Even without ordering food, this was a relaxing place to escape the afternoon sun. If you're exploring Salamanca and want a beautiful spot to unwind with a drink, or come back later for a proper meal, El Escondite de Villanueva is worth adding to your list. read more