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Recommended Reviews - La Campana
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I got what the hype was about once I tried it after about a 30 minute wait for a table. It's in Playa Mayor with great prices and a fantastic calamari sandwich. I liked it so much I plan to go back. Things I wish I knew before going. 1. They take card, but cash is preferred and faster. My Calamari sandwich & tinto de verano was 7€. 2. Order at the counter, get your food and then go to your seat if you're solo. If you're in a group 1 can order while the rest does to sit. 3. Didn't see a drink menu, but they serve local favorites, including beer. 4. Most importantly ask for sauce or it can be dry. They don't automatically add it.
When I think of Madrid sitting in this plazita is exactly what i imagine. Its around 6pm and it is no where near dinner time but its pre-dinner wine or sangria time. You are outside at a little table with friends or with your spouse. The waiter brings out your Tinto de Verano, some tapas and you are just enjoying life. We ordered and Entrecote to share. The steak was very flavorful and juicy. It was a perfect pairing with our drinks. The Tinto De Verano is like a Wine spritz and is super refreshing in the summer time. I will never forget the experience's like these that help me to appreciate Spain and the beautiful culture that comes with it.
Located step away from Plaza Mayor in Madrid this place is supposed to have the best calamari sandwich in Madrid. There are other places in the area that serve the exact same thing but this place is the cheapest at 4.50 (Euros). We stopped here around lunch and there was a short wait, which is rare from what we understand. There are 2 lines, 1 for takeout and 1 for sit in. If you get takeout and then want to sit in you have to join the line. Once a table frees up you are allowed in and then have to order at the counter and wait for your food. There is no table service. Tables are small and round seating 3 comfortably or 4 with a little crowding. While in line you will be asked how many people. Menu focuses on sandwiches with various meat or seafood fillings. Everything is a la carte so if you want fries or olives they are extra. You can ask for mayonnaise or aioli to go with your sandwich. We went with the calamari sandwich and a pancetta sandwich and 2 coffees. They also have pop and beer. Generous portions of fresh calamari in the sandwich made the bun warm. Portion of pancetta was less generous. Spruce up your Spanish (or Google Translate) because the menu is only in Spanish. Service can be brusque. When you are done someone will clear your table. Not really accessible as the restrooms are downstairs. Not sure it really warrants a 4, maybe 3.5?
I walked there and the pick up window is faster. I asked for mayo and the guy didn't include it so if u do ask for it or the aoili check to make sure. He be so distracted and I also got the bacon and it was good I wish I had scrambled eggs in it too w some cheese but the bread was delicious and warm. The calamari was salted just fine to my liking so I'm going back
After all the hype and seeing the line on 03.01.24, we decided to get the much lauded calamari sandwich to have in Plaza Mayor. This is a ritual for newly arrived visitors to this site. The line was long but moved rather quickly - the staff was making and bagging the sandwiches in anticipation of the orders. We unwrapped our sandwiches in the plaza and after a few pics, dove right in. Whomp whomp. The sandwich wasn't bad, but I would just leave it at that. It was stuffed to the max and the calamari texture was good, but it wasn't seasoned at all and the aioli it came with was just okay. The bread did hold up nicely, and it all stayed together. Maybe we caught them on a heavy rush, but we didn't get the fanaticism surrounding this sandwich - everywhere we looked people were having them. All in all, not bad, but there is so much better food to be had in the area.
Touristy area right by Plaza Mayor, known for their calamari sandwiches. At rush hour there is usually a long line, but we came around 9pm and there wasn't much of a wait. It was only 4 euros, and comes with garlic aioli/salsa (but we did have to ask for it). Loaded with plenty of calamari, and tastes great with the aioli sauce. (only comes with one packet, any more costs additional) I like the calamari here because it was crispy and more salted with fresh calamari. The bread was also good, not dry and the crust isn't too hard or flakey. This is a perfect grab and go kind of food, and we took it home to eat for a quick meal. Would come again!
This place was on a bunch of lists, but sounded like it could have been over-touristy, given its locations and being on so many touristy "must see" lists - it is absolutely not, it is extremely legit, I'd come here all the time if I lived in Madrid. The calamari you're probably here for, isn't literally the best calamari on the planet, it's just fried calamari that you'd get anywhere, but it is absolutely great calamari, perfectly fried and seasoned, and you get a *lot* of it. Since everything was so affordable and I'd heard such great things about the calamari, I ended up ordering (for me and my wife) both a calamari sandwich and a cup of calamari, also a sausage sandwich and a cup of patatas bravas. From this, I learned, if I were ever back in Madrid, I'd definitely go back here and get three of those things again, by which I mean, yes, they stuff the sandwich full of calamari, but that's still nowhere near as much as the absolutely absurd amount of calamari they stuff the *"raciones" (i.e. just a cup of calamari) with, so that ended up being way too much food. The calamari was obviously the star, but the sausage was also pretty tasty, and that sandwich didn't fall apart nearly as much as the calamari sandwich did... I ended up stuffing the sausage sandwich with some additional calamari from the overflowing calamari sandwich, and that is absolutely the way to do it: get a sausage sandwich, a cup of calamari, and stuff your own combo sandwich. Or just skip the bread entirely, honestly. The potatoes were also fantastic, and you also get an equally absurd amount in a "ration". One note, though, the potatoes come pre-sauced in a portion - the calamari, by default, do not, so you absolutely do want to pay the .40 euro extra for the sauce and some extra lemons, as it absolutley does need both for the full effect. Another note - as I expected from other reviews, yes, there was a huge line when we got there. This line is, notably, *only* to wait for a table, which makes sense, as the restaurant itself isn't very large. There was a separate line for to-go orders, which had exactly one person waiting when we got there, so there was about a 30 second wait to order to-go. So if you're staying nearby, that is definitely the way to go. They also don't have a lot of drink choices, so I would strongly recommend what we did, bought a couple bottled ciders from a grocery store on the way and had them with our food back at our hotel. read more
La Campana absolutely lives up to the hype. I tried both the bocadillo de chorizo and the bocadillo de calamares, and at only 4.50€ each, you really cannot beat the value. The chorizo was solid, but the bocadillo de calamares was on another level. Fried to perfection, served on soft bread, and the lemon aioli really set it off. We kept hearing from people all over Madrid that La Campana was the place to go, and I even overheard multiple walking tours throughout the week calling this THE spot for a bocadillo de calamares. After going myself, I completely get it. It is conveniently located right in Plaza Mayor where there are several bocadillo shops, but this is THE one you want. They move fast too. I was in and out of line and already eating in less than 5 minutes. Perfect spot if you want a quick but filling Spanish classic. Next time I am definitely sitting inside and trying more off the menu. read more
La Campana is a great spot in Madrid and absolutely worth visiting if you are in the area. The calamari is fresh with a lightly fried, crispy exterior and comes with lemon. You also have the option to purchase aioli which pairs really well with it. The bread was warm and fresh and everything together makes it clear why this is their most popular item. At under 5 euros, it is an incredible value. The service is straightforward. The employees do not really speak much English, but they are nice and get you taken care of quickly. The shop is located right next to another nearly identical spot that sells the same thing, but La Campana is definitely the more popular one. It gets crowded very fast so it helps to arrive early or be ready to squeeze in. The interior is pretty bare bones with small tables and chairs that fit about 25 people, but it serves its purpose and keeps the focus on the food. read more
For 4,50 Euro u get a sandwich loaded with fried calamari. Total deal. I got there when they were closing so I dunno if they have toppings bc I wished I had some sauce to throw on top and a squeeze of lemon. They have other options like chorizo, lomo, morcilla, etc. read more
I got what the hype was about once I tried it after about a 30 minute wait for a table. It's in Playa Mayor with great prices and a fantastic calamari sandwich. I liked it so much I plan to go back. Things I wish I knew before going. 1. They take card, but cash is preferred and faster. My Calamari sandwich & tinto de verano was 7€. 2. Order at the counter, get your food and then go to your seat if you're solo. If you're in a group 1 can order while the rest does to sit. 3. Didn't see a drink menu, but they serve local favorites, including beer. 4. Most importantly ask for sauce or it can be dry. They don't automatically add it. read more
12 days ago
10 months ago
When I think of Madrid sitting in this plazita is exactly what i imagine. Its around 6pm and it is no where near dinner time but its pre-dinner wine or sangria time. You are outside at a little table with friends or with your spouse. The waiter brings out your Tinto de Verano, some tapas and you are just enjoying life. We ordered and Entrecote to share. The steak was very flavorful and juicy. It was a perfect pairing with our drinks. The Tinto De Verano is like a Wine spritz and is super refreshing in the summer time. I will never forget the experience's like these that help me to appreciate Spain and the beautiful culture that comes with it. read more
Located step away from Plaza Mayor in Madrid this place is supposed to have the best calamari sandwich in Madrid. There are other places in the area that serve the exact same thing but this place is the cheapest at 4.50 (Euros). We stopped here around lunch and there was a short wait, which is rare from what we understand. There are 2 lines, 1 for takeout and 1 for sit in. If you get takeout and then want to sit in you have to join the line. Once a table frees up you are allowed in and then have to order at the counter and wait for your food. There is no table service. Tables are small and round seating 3 comfortably or 4 with a little crowding. While in line you will be asked how many people. Menu focuses on sandwiches with various meat or seafood fillings. Everything is a la carte so if you want fries or olives they are extra. You can ask for mayonnaise or aioli to go with your sandwich. We went with the calamari sandwich and a pancetta sandwich and 2 coffees. They also have pop and beer. Generous portions of fresh calamari in the sandwich made the bun warm. Portion of pancetta was less generous. Spruce up your Spanish (or Google Translate) because the menu is only in Spanish. Service can be brusque. When you are done someone will clear your table. Not really accessible as the restrooms are downstairs. Not sure it really warrants a 4, maybe 3.5? read more
I walked there and the pick up window is faster. I asked for mayo and the guy didn't include it so if u do ask for it or the aoili check to make sure. He be so distracted and I also got the bacon and it was good I wish I had scrambled eggs in it too w some cheese but the bread was delicious and warm. The calamari was salted just fine to my liking so I'm going back read more
Damn good calamari sandwich. Not greasy at all on a very nice hoagie roll. Get the picante hot sauce, sprinkle with lemon wedge and garlic aioli. This place is so popular that the shop next door selling the same thing was empty while Campana was bursting with calamari lovers. read more
8 months ago
I always stop by here whenever I'm in Madrid. Cheap eats for a good price . Calamari sandwich and bacon sandwich for €9. I got it to go this time around read more
2 years ago
After all the hype and seeing the line on 03.01.24, we decided to get the much lauded calamari sandwich to have in Plaza Mayor. This is a ritual for newly arrived visitors to this site. The line was long but moved rather quickly - the staff was making and bagging the sandwiches in anticipation of the orders. We unwrapped our sandwiches in the plaza and after a few pics, dove right in. Whomp whomp. The sandwich wasn't bad, but I would just leave it at that. It was stuffed to the max and the calamari texture was good, but it wasn't seasoned at all and the aioli it came with was just okay. The bread did hold up nicely, and it all stayed together. Maybe we caught them on a heavy rush, but we didn't get the fanaticism surrounding this sandwich - everywhere we looked people were having them. All in all, not bad, but there is so much better food to be had in the area. read more
2 years ago
Touristy area right by Plaza Mayor, known for their calamari sandwiches. At rush hour there is usually a long line, but we came around 9pm and there wasn't much of a wait. It was only 4 euros, and comes with garlic aioli/salsa (but we did have to ask for it). Loaded with plenty of calamari, and tastes great with the aioli sauce. (only comes with one packet, any more costs additional) I like the calamari here because it was crispy and more salted with fresh calamari. The bread was also good, not dry and the crust isn't too hard or flakey. This is a perfect grab and go kind of food, and we took it home to eat for a quick meal. Would come again! read more
11 months ago
Quick service and great food at a good price. The chorizo sandwich was very good and a little spicy. A great spot to try authentic Spanish food right off of Plaza Mayor! read more
Amazing and cheap local eatery. If seating is sparse you can get quick takeaway and eat in the plaza nearby. The calamari was to die for - super crispy and flavorful, pairs great with mayo. Loved the olives which come with each drink. read more
2 years ago
I thought this 4 euro calamari sandwich was going to be a tourist trap but surprisingly it was so delicious. I saw calamari sandwiches at the nearby market that was priced at 8+ euros. THAT would have been a tourist trap. This sandwich was remarkably simple but remarkably delicious. Who knew fried calamari would go so well with bread. It's like a match made in heaven. The calamari comes piping hot (be careful not to burn yourself) and the crispiness pairs so well. I would get this over and over again if I could read more
2 years ago
Wowowow calamari so fresh so good! But get there early or prepare for a long line. This is right outside Plaza Mayor, and I recommend just getting a racione, I like to call it a bucket ... but it's easier to eat from a bucket instead of the sandwich. And also easier to share. Mmmm I would go back!!! read more
Calamari was fantastic, maybe just grab the bucket to go. We got there to see a huge line at which point we considered turning around but fortunately that was the dine-in line. The to-go line was much shorter (maybe 3 parties) and we got our sandwhich within 10 minutes. I've had plenty of calamari in the states and the majority I hadn't thought to be rubbery/tough but the calamari throughout Spain, and especially here, was springy yet incredibly tender. The texture was amazing, perfectly fried and salted - it set the new standard for what fried calamari should be in my opinion. The bread was okay and the sandwich form factor really didn't add to the experience, perhaps even detracted (?). Would recommend giving the calamari a try. read more
Looking for authentic bocadillo de calamares while in Madrid? Then head over to Bar La Campana near Plaza Mayor. Each bite of the tender calamari was balanced well with the slightly crisp coating. Fast, simple, and tasty sandwich. This bustling restaurant operates like a well oiled machine. There are two queues, one for takeaway and one for dining in. I recommend dining in, and pairing your bocadillo with a cold beer. read more
Food was quite salty, and honestly nothing special. It's just salty calamari in a bread. The tortilla was on the colder side, temp wise. We came in the morning and there was no line at all (it's quite a popular place I think). read more
I stopped by La Campana in Madrid recently and tried their Calamari Sandwich. The restaurant is in a great location as it's just seconds away from Plaza Mayor. The sandwich was loaded with calamari and it was overall a good combination. The calamari was fresh and tender with great flavour and thin but crispy breading. Also, it cost just a few euros. I highly recommend trying this high quality and excellent value item (especially considering the location) and I'd rate my experience 8.8/10 read more
11 months ago
2 years ago
We leaned from our tour guide that this shop has the best Bocsdillo in Madrid. There were two queues in the restaurant, one for takeout and one for dine in. We got a takeout within a few minutes wait. The Bocadillo was 4 Euro and tasted great. read more
Would rate it a 3.5. The line was long but the service was fairly fast and the employee was patient in explaining the dishes to us. -calamari sandwich (bocadillo de calamares): good. Simple flavors, very oily. Given with aioli packets on the side making for an extra sinful sandwich. -pork sandwich (bocadillo de lomo): good, thick and lean pork pieces. -chorizo: very good but quite oily and very salt. Would go better in a sandwich to cut the saltiness. Overall, pretty basic street food. Accepts credit cards. read more
Delicious for a quick pit stop for a calamari sandwich, olives and quick beer. Definitely grab a table if you can, more enjoyable to sit down and enjoy then taking it out. Service is super fast and friendly! Ambiance is retro counter style and fun! Sometimes there's quite a line out the door but worth it! read more
3 years ago
1 year ago
I liked this little restaurant. They put a generous amount of calamari rings inside a sandwich loaf ( I just ate the rings, though ) and give you a plate of olives too. Price is very reasonable. read more
1 year ago
As the locals say, at visit to Madrid is not complete without a Bocadillo de Calamares from La Campana. Worth the wait in line in my opinion. read more
3 years ago
Saw this as a place to get the best bocadillo de calamares. This was my first time having one of these and I don't know if any could top it now. The calamari was so moist and tender and the breading was nice and light. I thought fried calamari in a sandwich would be too heavy, but it was actually really balanced. The sandwich bread was crunchy, but not dry at all. The place is really cute aesthetically too. When you order at the bar, you just have to get a staff member's attention, otherwise, super quick service, even when it's bustling. Quick, cheap eats that you need to try! read more
11 months ago
I did some research on Madrid food and it led me here, fast service and ordering for take away. Asked for a lemon (thanks to Yelp for the tips!), and ate it at Plaza Mayor while people watching. The calamari is incredibly tender, not chewy at all. Breading is light, and it balances so well with the fresh bread. Can't beat lunch for four euro! I shared the photos with my friends, and those who have been to Madrid confirmed this was the best place for a bocadillo calamares. read more
2 years ago
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More info about La Campana
Calle de las Botoneras, 6
28012 Madrid
Spain
Sol
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913 642 984
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http://www.calamareslacampana.com
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