A small casa on Calle de Leon somewhat away from the Puerta del Sol. The street is filled with…read morelocals going about their day or transiting by foot towards city center so it is not heavily overrun by tour groups. Plus, this shopfront is small and not particularly descript so you might walk right by it if you were not searching for it. However, if you know better, you will find a reason to pause, duck in, and take a break!
There are small tables within to eat there but there is only 1 at the shop front window alcove. If you time it right, you can grab this table and stuff your pie hole with local sausages, cured meats, and Spanish wine, beer or Vermouth while watching Madridian life pass you by. There may not be a better way to ruin what could have been an otherwise productive day!
The menu is substantial but is largely made up of combinations of the various cured meats and cheeses that the shop is known for. Unlike spots that promote only Iberian ham and Manchego cheese, Casa González has all manner of meats and cheeses so it is a fantastic spot to go to for variety within this genre. I think that only strict vegans will be angered by what is on offer here.
I recommend Casa Gonzalez for a meat and cheese orgy if you are in the area. They have been doing this since 1931 so you know that they have a winning formula.