As a madrileño myself, I couldn't agree more with this video's tips. I wish every tourist would watch this video and enjoy Madrid at its fullest. Great job guys, this work is much more beneficial for Spain's tourism than all the official government promotions
So agree on the feeling safe walking through Madrid at night. People are everywhere. Families are out late, kids are playing 3 or 4 hours later than they would be at home.
I had the same feeling when I visited Madrid 😅 I was there with my parents when I was 13 and everyone was going out 10pm in summer when we were going back to the hotel! Btw if you’re interested I also a channel with content from London, Greece and Italy ☺️
I was in Madrid with my father and brother. Loved the city and the food was perfect! This was pre-covid, and the atmosphere was awesome. So many people out enjoying the city. Watching your videos takes me back, it really makes me want to visit again!
I loved the vignettes! Also, we need to have worldwide restaurant reform where all items used must reveal the source and whether it is fresh, frozen, dried, etc. 🍽 If I want to reheat Cisco food, I’ll do it at home.
I had the same feeling when I went to certain restaurants. Now it all makes sense! the waiters are efficient, they care without needing to pamper the customers.
These two are RUclips's best. If you care to watch half a dozen of their vids you'll enjoy the visit twice as much. & U won't get ripped off. Greetings from Madrid
Pretty good advice. I try to avoid restaurants near any popular tourist attraction. The best findings have been very modest looking places populated with lots of locals.
Exactly!! I think in big tourist places like Madrid, it’s always good to do a little research before! I actually just posted a video on my channel I give advice on how to avoid tourist scams in Italy if you want to check it out ☺️
I' m a "Madrileña" and all I can say is that your tips are truly genuine and well advised. People that come to Madrid should follow these tips and you'll get a 100% of good time, good cuisine and beautiful sights. Your channel is great!👍
You’re the one of the best resources for Spain on RUclips. Thanks for all your hard work in educating us travelers. ¡Gracias! By the way, have you ever considered doing a podcast?
Thank you for continuing to produce new videos under the challenging circumstances. We were on two tours with Spain Revealed in September 2019 (Madrid and Sevilla) and have been itching to go back. Stay strong and we'll see you guys soon!
I´m an expat who´s lived on and off in Madrid for the past 16 yrs and I must say that you´re spot on with all of these recommendations and insights. Your knowledge of the city cannot be questioned. I´d STRONGLY suggest that anyone visiting Madrid who is not familiar with the city heed this video´s advice. Bravo!
I’m heading to Madrid in a few months and your videos and guides have been incredible. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into every single one!
I Love Madrid...I Miss Madrid - I've had a hell of a time in the late 80's and memories that live with me forever. I also recommend to be a discreet tourist particularly in places like Plaza del Sol where pickpockets seem to be everywhere at busy times. That said every corner of this beautiful city has a special memory to me. Thanks for sharing.
never experienced “surely service”, lived here for a while and everyone is super nice. I always hear please and thank you’s from everyone even if I don’t say it first
A taxi driver saved me in Madrid when I immediately needed medical attention in the evening and drove me to a good hospital with open emergency admission. I agree that everybody should walk in Madrid. But if you need help, ask them and pay what they deserve.
@@juanasenjo8515 Might be the wrong term, English is not my primary language. They were open and took immediately care of me. The department of the hospital that takes care if you have an emergency.
@@GerdCastan Sorry it's just that it stroke me a little odd as all major hospitals have emergency services and are never "closed". Just being a little anal, never mind.
In León they have this concept of "corto" (half of a "caña"; aka: around 15 CL of beer), and the tapa they give you with a corto is decent. The way you go out in León is by getting 5-6 cortos (essentially, 3 beers split into 6), and eat your 6 free tapas. So you have the full package on a budget, and because this isn't Madrid, but a smaller province, the food is good. Each bar has their own tapa, too (usually, their "single/trademark" tapa that kind of defines that bar), so the whole experience is awesome and varied. Totally recommend León!
We never get tired of seeing your videos about Madrid and España. Even though we somewhat consider ourselves as our own experts, we always seem to pick up a tip or two from your videos. We hope to see you both in Madrid again some day. Gracias de nuevo James y Yoly. ¡sed seguro y saluable!
I think this was one of your best episodes! My husband is from New York, I am from Callosa de Segura near Alicante. We'll be coming to Spain when and if this COVID ever goes away, and using your tips for good out of the way tapas bars, etc. We are completely like that - finding the hidden gems just like you two! ¡Bravo!, ¡Olé! Maybe we'll run into you if the timing is right.
Very entertaining and informative video. Love your channel. Had no inclination whatsoever to visit Madrid until watching your channel. Your insight has turned my viewpoint upside down. Thank you so much for sharing your insider view to a wonderful city.
Everything discussed is exactly my own experience and observation of Madrid (mainly, eating below-par paella, which was utterly disappointing). I will especially highlight what Yoly said, which is to walk to places, rather than to take a taxi or an Uber. That’s what I did when I was there and it really felt like I was immersed in the environment. The night strolls are extra beautiful. I sure miss being there.
Paella is an issue here in Spain. Somehow, all tourists want to eat it, but only visit Madrid or Barcelona. So tourist restaurants will offer this meal without any knowledge of how important Paella is to Valencian people. So they will serve what tourists aim, even if it is not eatable. I fill frustrated when restaurants in Madrid or Barcelona mix meat and fish with pees or any other strange combination, but then I remember that most of the tourists are searching for that and end up thinkng "It's the free market my friend". I recomend you to visit Valencia (Castellón, Valencia or Alicante) and enjoy the difference. Surely you'll understand why such a traditional dish has such an international interest.
@@mortadelovlc I did not conduct previous research about paella before visiting Madrid and learned more after the fact. I had the pleasure of having a very good paella at a Spanish restaurant in Miami so I knew what it is supposed to taste like, therefore, quite stunned by the poor level of taste that was served in the city. I do plan to be in Valencia this year and I have every intention of enjoying an authentic paella experience.
@@mortadelovlc Catalonia has a large tradition of rice dishes with rice production since ages in some of its wetlands. I prefer a good Arroz over an authentic paella. But any place selling an Arroz as a Paella is a tourist trap.
I actually liked "El Tigre" for what it is! I went in because it was full with locals and didn't know what to expect. I ordered a beer for 5€ and was surprised to get a plate with it that was a full meal. As I was more hungry than thirsty, I finished the plate way before the beer and they offered me a second one (I was a bit embarrassed and refused because I couldn't eat more). Yes, the food is nothing special, but still a way better option than some other fast food places, tapas chains or tourist traps at the hot spots. It's not a culinary highlight, but you get stuffed with a good amount of decent food for a very good price. I definitely didn't regret going there and I guess no one will knowing what to expect.
Gracias por vuestros videos. Soy una española en California que añora su tierra y vuestro canal me recuerda tradiciones y comidas que deje hace mucho años. Os encontre hace poco y pienso seguiros. Keep up the good work!
This was lots of fun and I'll agree with what everyone has said about the transit in the comments too. I think a lot of Americans are shy about navigating by metro since very few cities here have good metro systems. It's unfamiliar. It's really awesome in Madrid, though, so it's definitely worth a go and it's not as hard to navigate as it may seem. Metro and walking are my preferred way to move about the city too. So much gorgeous architecture to appreciate along the journey and always something new to see.
Actually, theres some quite affordable places (with terrace) in Plaza Mayor. You just have to look for places where there's mostly old spanish people and less travalers :)
We hired a private guide to tour the Prado & Reina-Sofia. It’s not inexpensive but WOW do you understand the art and the history which inspired it. We did one museum per day. After 4-5 hours of art touring we were fried. I cannot imagine trying to do more than 1 each day.
That black-and-white Grapes of Wrath crying scene is just completely freaking hysterically funny - so good. And the info & tips were great prep for a future visit. Make room on the shelf for your Oscar...
The over-the-thumb rule would be, never eat at a restaurant that has pictures of the dishes hanging. By the way, James and Yoli, you’re some of the best damn food connoisseurs that I’ve seen on RUclips, your food videos are legendary. Keep it up! Un abrazo desde Barcelona.
I have never thought about visiting madrid in my life but thanks to your video i am at the moment in Madrid watching again your videos to visit the restaurants and the bars, i already went to the CHOCOLAT bar and i had the best churros and porras with the best chocolate ever this morning, tomorrow i'll visit a little bit of restaurants that you have mentioned in the videos to try! Thank you mate for all the advices and congrats for the princess! I'm so happy for the both of you!
I want to congrats you two for your channel, wich its wanderfull, And for giving all those nice tips and guides to the turist when they come so they have the best experience in our beautifull country thanks!
I had already been warned not to bother eating at Plaza Mayor due to potentially being ripped off so I was pleasantly surprised when we had a lovely family meal experience there last month. It was a real quick stop off between arriving in Madrid for Parque Warner and Parque de Atracciones and moving on to Alicante to family and, outside of the theme parks, was the ONLY place I knew I had to visit before I left as my last name is Mayor!
I've only been twice in Madrid and on my second visit noticed this kind of efficient but not too friendly service. It works for me. They do like to be efficient and always do the right thing even for non Spanish speakers . The €10 menu del dia is always a life saver for any visitor. Not sure if this is still the price now though.
I stumbled upon one of your videos in the youtube feed and just kept watching more and more videos together with my wife. You guys are amazing - I love your content.
Only visited Madrid a long time ago, so unable to offer recent and relevant experiences to compare. Visited other cities and regions like San Sebastian, Santiago de Compostela, Sevilla, Cadiz, Valencia, Ibiza, Granada, Malaga etc., which I liked a lot. My favourite is oddly enough, Fuerteventura las Canarias. Just have a love of that volcanic island and really nice people I met there. Great, great sea food too! I think I've been lucky, so I'll go back there again. Spain is wonderful and always surprising. Fell in live with the language and culture and a New Age is dawning.
This is a great vid 👏 One of my favourites ❤ A lot of good advice, and, as always, honest. It's a difficult time for a lot of people, but your videos allow us to travel (and escape) from our sofa's!
I'm in central madrid and this is sound advice since the mid 1990s ! Never enter a restaurant that shows photos of its food outside is the the golden rule !
The only exception to this MIGHT be a Japanese restaurant. I remember there used to be Samurai restaurant near Plaza de Santa Domingo. It had wax models of the food set in the windows. That's a Japanese custom. It's normal in a Japanese restaurant. It is not normal in Spain, though.
I miss the aloof coolness of Madrid's waiters and I much prefer it to the phoney Americanised friendliness of some restaurant staff in London. Generally speaking being a waiter in Spain is a job not something you do before you become a famous actor or pop star. They may not smile all the time but Spanish waiters get it right mostly and the whole system of ordering and getting your food works like clockwork. That's what I miss most, I don't remember or care who smiled at me or where that was. 😊
I think there is a middle ground between being nice and being rude that some people just don’t get. Just because they are not being overly pleasing, does not mean they are being rude. Of course if you come from somewhere like the US, it comes off as rude but it’s just less friendly and slower service. I only had two problems with this (both outside of Madrid), one was not just a rude waitress but the staff in general. I went out for lunch with some friends in Barcelona and everything was great until we got the bill. First there was a problem splitting the checks. This is unfortunately a problem in other parts of Spain as well and we were expecting it. I guess it is not a thing in Spain to split the checks 🤷🏻♀️. The bigger problem was that the bill was significantly higher than what we calculated. According to the waitress,, they had to factor in the IVA. We told her the price on the menu includes the IVA and not only did she deny it but she went to talk with her co workers about us rather than try to solve the problem. This part was hilarious to me because she assumed we were all American and Brits and that we only spoke English. Oh what a surprise to her that our group included - a Brazilian - a Mexican - a Peruvian - One British woman who just so happened to speak fluent Spanish. - me; a Dominican There was no need for her to insult us with her co workers. We spoke with her, told her we understood what she was saying and eventually she fixed the bill. Later on I found out legally they are required to include the IVA on their menu. There are rude waters all over the world and I could tell stories about US waiters as well. The reality is most waiters are not like that and if the only complaint is waiters didn’t smile or come running, people should really reconsider what they believe is good service. Good service fot me: my food is served and it is great quality. My waiter is polite (i.e does not yell at me, insult me or try to take advantage of me as a tourist) Bonus if I could get a recommendation but not necessary as I know it is controversial to recommend as a waiter.
We visited Sevilla years ago and asked someone where we should go to get good paella. He thought for a moment and said "Valencia". So a few years later we were in Valencia and went to a paella restaurant on the beach that was recommended. No one there spoke English, so I summoned my high school Spanish and placed an order. They told us to go for a walk on the beach and come back two hours later. We did, and the paella was amazing, flavourful and crusty and well worth the wait.
What kind of live tapa's and wine party are you having when you guys hit 100K subscribers? I'm in and would like to reserve my spot now. Cheers, another insightful look at Madrid!
We’ve just had a fantastic week in Madrid following a lot of help and advice from your vlogs. One piece of advice we might of missed is when travelling from madrid to sagovia by train we didn’t realise we needed passports to buy train tickets and we didn’t have them with us so couldn’t do the trip maybe it’s one thing to make clear to other travellers but on a brighter note it means we will be back to do the trip again another time 😎
A couple years ago, before I knew of you, we went on an Airbnb guided tapas tour our first night in Madrid. While there were some definite hits he introduced us to, but there were some misses too with regard to the churros y chocolate and paella. I sometimes think guides may think we want the tourist trap type of food. 🤷🏻♀️ We did have a very fun night regardless. I love that you keep is real 100%. Cant wait to go back and hopefully book something with your company.
I wish I had watched this video before I went to Mercado San Miguel haha definitely can’t wait to come visit again, people in Madrid are definitely more welcoming than many other places in Europe!
I just moved to Madrid and been mostly doing apartment hunting and walking around the city to get a feel of all the neighborhoods. I only walk and sometimes take the metro if I am in a hurry. Even out of the historic center, the city is very walkable, the distances are super short. Yesterday I walked from 4caminos all the way to Lavapiés and along the river promenade. What a great way to feel the pulse of the city and get the daily steps in! Great tips by the way, very useful for a newcomer.
I lived in Madrid for 5 years as a student and just left this year and I agree wholly - I come back to this channel from time to time to get a little hit of nostalgia when I feel I'm missing the city. Love your work ! Thank you for the beautiful memories Madrid, can't wait to visit again some day soon. Edit - In fact lived on Lope de Vega in the video! And Calle Cuchilleros too, and I'm guilty of a relaxing Cafe con Leche at Eboli in the Plaza 🤣
I loveeeeeeee Madrid, I went in March of 2015 for a concert with one my sisters and we had a blast. We stayed in Paseo Recoleto in a hotel beside La Biblioteca Nacional. My sister and I walked everywhere (la Gran Via, Parque El Retiro, Plaza Mayor, Cibeles, etc) and we had so much fun exploring Madrid on foot. At that time I was watching Sin Tetas no hay Paraiso (the Spanish version, of course) and I was in love with Miguel Angel Silvestre lol, even I sent him a DM in tweeter, that I was going to Madrid. We went to eat paella en Calle de la Reina, I believe the restaurant was La Casa de la Paella, we had two jarras de sangria too. It was such an amazing city to visit. At that time I hadn't seen my sister in a long, long time (she lives in Sweden and I live in Canada, we were born in Panama). My favourite city ever!
Amazing content as always. The production values are excellent. The Lena you are using now gives great bokeh and the cut away was ace... “they don’t love me” 🤣
I was feeling nervous at first because when I ate in the Plaza Mayor with my host brother we had bocadillos de camarones but then it was quickly alleviated when you said thats the good thing to do! As soon as borders open up I am rushing over there
Bocadillo de calamares is always a good idea! There are still a couple of places around Plaza Mayor with them that are not pure tourist ripoffs. By the way, camarones is another delicious food (shrimps in Latin America, mini shrimps in Spain) but usually not taken in bocadillo (at least in Spain). Glad you liked Madrid!
Love your channel! I was in Madrid, Toledo and Barcelona in 2017. But Madrid is special and I would love to come back. Greetings from Manila, Philippines.
#من_هو_محمد Quien es Muhammad? Muhammad nació en La Meca en el año 570 dc, cuando el Cristianismo todavia no estaba completamente establecido en Europa, debido a que su padre falleció antes de su nacimiento y su madre murió poco tiempo despues, se hizo cargo de el uno después, sus tios, miembros de la respetada tribu de los Quraysh, A medida que iba creciendo iba siendo conocido por su veracidad, generosidad y sinceridad, y debido a ello se le buscaba como arbitro de las disputas. Los historiadores le describen como una persona serena y propensa a la meditacion. Muhammad tenia una profunda naturaleza religiosa y detestaba la decadencia de la sociedad en la que vivia. Tenia por costumbre meditar de vez en cuando en la Cueva de Hira, cerca de la cima de Yabal al Nur, la Montaña de la Luz, en las proximidades de La Meca. islamicbulletin.org/?page_id=401&lang=es
"Don't do all the wrong things and do all the right things"....I'm up for it! Gracias - good to see you guys and I look forward to the trip to Madrid when we can. Tony
OMG!! Where the hell were you two when my friend and I stumbled our way around Madrid and Southern Spain.???? We could have seen more, enjoyed it more, eaten better and come home friends.
Haha, the Paella,good tip! Reminds me of the movie " European Vacation" where Chevy Chase was telling his family about awesome French cuisine while they were in a restaurant in Paris, back in the kitchen,the "chefs" were microwaving frozen tv dinners!! Only the best for American tourists!
It also seems true around Madrid that every time I go to a restaurant where the decor inside is really cool, the food is always really average!! This has happened to me a lot of times now
We travel a lot, watch a lot of You Tube videos before visiting. Yours is much better than most, well done! Will be in Madrid next week, sure this will help. Looking forward to that calamari sandwich
La Campana, una de las mejores recomendaciones. Respecto a la paella, después de 11 años viviendo en Sueca (Valencia) donde se celebra el concurso internacional de paellas, te puedo decir que en Madrid (y otros sitios de España) son tan buenas y tan malas como en Valencia. El problema no es el lugar, a día de hoy con los medios de transporte de mercancías no hay distancias, el problema es el local y el reclamo turístico, se debe huir de todo local que parezca mínimamente orientado al turista. Los mejores sitios para comer paella (Madrid, Valencia, o cualquier otro lugar de España) es en arrocerías o locales que no viven del turismo y tienen costumbre de hacer paella (la mayoría de las veces por encargo). Pero si te las hacen al momento (menos de 30min) y están en una zona turística, da igual que estés en Valencia, te servirán porquería. Resumiendo, vayas donde vayas, come donde veas comiendo a la gente que vive en ese lugar.
Regarding service and waiters. There isn't a tipping culture in Spain so the waiters don't sell themselves trying to maximise tips. I find they are often professional waiters , so its not a temporary job like it is in many other countries. So they work fast, and efficiently because they are being paid by the business or its their own business and spending more time with you will not make them anymore money. Unlike the US where the business often doesn't pay servers or pays very little and servers live off tips.
This is a great channel, always interesting and you can see the professional quality content and editing. Great couple who work so well together. I think they could make a video on a empty plate and it would still be interesting.
A friendly note: There´s something you´re not getting exactly right about the "tapas culture", and that is confusing "tapas" with "raciones". Traditionally, in Madrid and some other places, tapas are small portions that the bars give you for free when you order drinks (aperitivos), but if you order 'tapas' (and therefore you pay for them), then you get larger portions that are (or were) called "raciones". Hence, when you order "una de bravas (or whatever)", you don´t mean "tapa de bravas" but "ración de bravas" (in fact, you shouldn´t ask for a "carta de tapas", but one of "raciones"). That said, there is a good number of bars in Madrid where you can have your "meal" just from the tapas you get by ordering a few drinks, but maybe you just have to find them outside of the most popular areas (and still search a little). Saludos.
As a madrileño myself, I couldn't agree more with this video's tips.
I wish every tourist would watch this video and enjoy Madrid at its fullest.
Great job guys, this work is much more beneficial for Spain's tourism than all the official government promotions
I was in Madrid nearly half a century ago. I wish I had never left.
Thanks for that Alejandro!
❤️
That is true of 80% of the squares in the world..
Get out my mind. :D
I was about to write very much the same.
Absolutely agree about waking everywhere. Everytime we are in Spain we always walk everywhere. This way we get to see more of the cities and eat more.
I think that’s a great tip for whole Europe actually! Btw if you’re interested I also a channel with content from London, Greece and Italy ☺️
So agree on the feeling safe walking through Madrid at night. People are everywhere. Families are out late, kids are playing 3 or 4 hours later than they would be at home.
I had the same feeling when I visited Madrid 😅 I was there with my parents when I was 13 and everyone was going out 10pm in summer when we were going back to the hotel!
Btw if you’re interested I also a channel with content from London, Greece and Italy ☺️
I was in Madrid with my father and brother. Loved the city and the food was perfect! This was pre-covid, and the atmosphere was awesome. So many people out enjoying the city. Watching your videos takes me back, it really makes me want to visit again!
Oh that was hilarious clip of James crying because the topas guys don't love him...you guys are the best.
I loved the vignettes!
Also, we need to have worldwide restaurant reform where all items used must reveal the source and whether it is fresh, frozen, dried, etc. 🍽 If I want to reheat Cisco food, I’ll do it at home.
That was the BEST! I laughed so hard.
I had the same feeling when I went to certain restaurants. Now it all makes sense! the waiters are efficient, they care without needing to pamper the customers.
I know, right?? I was just going to comment the same thing. :-D
Very funny clip!! But it's the norm in the US not just in the food service....
"Relaxing cup" 😂😂 iconic!
These two are RUclips's best. If you care to watch half a dozen of their vids you'll enjoy the visit twice as much. & U won't get ripped off.
Greetings from Madrid
Pretty good advice. I try to avoid restaurants near any popular tourist attraction. The best findings have been very modest looking places populated with lots of locals.
Exactly!! I think in big tourist places like Madrid, it’s always good to do a little research before! I actually just posted a video on my channel I give advice on how to avoid tourist scams in Italy if you want to check it out ☺️
I' m a "Madrileña" and all I can say is that your tips are truly genuine and well advised. People that come to Madrid should follow these tips and you'll get a 100% of good time, good cuisine and beautiful sights. Your channel is great!👍
You’re the one of the best resources for Spain on RUclips. Thanks for all your hard work in educating us travelers. ¡Gracias! By the way, have you ever considered doing a podcast?
@Bob el Silencioso Good point.
Thank you for continuing to produce new videos under the challenging circumstances. We were on two tours with Spain Revealed in September 2019 (Madrid and Sevilla) and have been itching to go back. Stay strong and we'll see you guys soon!
I´m an expat who´s lived on and off in Madrid for the past 16 yrs and I must say that you´re spot on with all of these recommendations and insights. Your knowledge of the city cannot be questioned. I´d STRONGLY suggest that anyone visiting Madrid who is not familiar with the city heed this video´s advice. Bravo!
The crying scene was SO Fellini. It moved me.
I’m heading to Madrid in a few months and your videos and guides have been incredible. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into every single one!
I Love Madrid...I Miss Madrid - I've had a hell of a time in the late 80's and memories that live with me forever. I also recommend to be a discreet tourist particularly in places like Plaza del Sol where pickpockets seem to be everywhere at busy times. That said every corner of this beautiful city has a special memory to me. Thanks for sharing.
never experienced “surely service”, lived here for a while and everyone is super nice. I always hear please and thank you’s from everyone even if I don’t say it first
Love your Madrid videos, tested out your bravas recipe too! Love the city of Madrid, makes my heart happy to see someone love the city and share it.
A taxi driver saved me in Madrid when I immediately needed medical attention in the evening and drove me to a good hospital with open emergency admission.
I agree that everybody should walk in Madrid. But if you need help, ask them and pay what they deserve.
Excuse me, but, what is "open" emergency admission.? Just wondering.
@@juanasenjo8515 Might be the wrong term, English is not my primary language. They were open and took immediately care of me. The department of the hospital that takes care if you have an emergency.
I think he talks about 'urgencias'
@@GerdCastan Sorry it's just that it stroke me a little odd as all major hospitals have emergency services and are never "closed". Just being a little anal, never mind.
True!
In León they have this concept of "corto" (half of a "caña"; aka: around 15 CL of beer), and the tapa they give you with a corto is decent.
The way you go out in León is by getting 5-6 cortos (essentially, 3 beers split into 6), and eat your 6 free tapas. So you have the full package on a budget, and because this isn't Madrid, but a smaller province, the food is good. Each bar has their own tapa, too (usually, their "single/trademark" tapa that kind of defines that bar), so the whole experience is awesome and varied. Totally recommend León!
Hace años que dejé Madrid y tu canal es el mejor para recordarlo. Perfecto conocimiento de la ciudad y sus gastronomía, felicidades :-)
Honestly guys you ve helped to improve my Madrid experience and you continue doing so. Thanks Yoli and James
We never get tired of seeing your videos about Madrid and España. Even though we somewhat consider ourselves as our own experts, we always seem to pick up a tip or two from your videos. We hope to see you both in Madrid again some day.
Gracias de nuevo James y Yoly. ¡sed seguro y saluable!
Glad you're still finding tips Robert :)
@@spainrevealed g69s2huduj
I think this was one of your best episodes! My husband is from New York, I am from Callosa de Segura near Alicante. We'll be coming to Spain when and if this COVID ever goes away, and using your tips for good out of the way tapas bars, etc. We are completely like that - finding the hidden gems just like you two! ¡Bravo!, ¡Olé! Maybe we'll run into you if the timing is right.
Very entertaining and informative video. Love your channel. Had no inclination whatsoever to visit Madrid until watching your channel. Your insight has turned my viewpoint upside down. Thank you so much for sharing your insider view to a wonderful city.
Good video. I can’t remember how many times I’ve been to La Campaña and said “uno de calamar y una caña”
9:50 - Wow, Academy Award! Wow, this episode was worth it for acting alone!
Everything discussed is exactly my own experience and observation of Madrid (mainly, eating below-par paella, which was utterly disappointing). I will especially highlight what Yoly said, which is to walk to places, rather than to take a taxi or an Uber. That’s what I did when I was there and it really felt like I was immersed in the environment. The night strolls are extra beautiful. I sure miss being there.
Paella is an issue here in Spain.
Somehow, all tourists want to eat it, but only visit Madrid or Barcelona. So tourist restaurants will offer this meal without any knowledge of how important Paella is to Valencian people.
So they will serve what tourists aim, even if it is not eatable.
I fill frustrated when restaurants in Madrid or Barcelona mix meat and fish with pees or any other strange combination, but then I remember that most of the tourists are searching for that and end up thinkng "It's the free market my friend".
I recomend you to visit Valencia (Castellón, Valencia or Alicante) and enjoy the difference. Surely you'll understand why such a traditional dish has such an international interest.
@@mortadelovlc I did not conduct previous research about paella before visiting Madrid and learned more after the fact. I had the pleasure of having a very good paella at a Spanish restaurant in Miami so I knew what it is supposed to taste like, therefore, quite stunned by the poor level of taste that was served in the city. I do plan to be in Valencia this year and I have every intention of enjoying an authentic paella experience.
Very beautiful on a warm summer evening!
Casa Carmela is apparently good in Valencia (I haven't eaten there myself)
@@mortadelovlc Catalonia has a large tradition of rice dishes with rice production since ages in some of its wetlands. I prefer a good Arroz over an authentic paella. But any place selling an Arroz as a Paella is a tourist trap.
I actually liked "El Tigre" for what it is! I went in because it was full with locals and didn't know what to expect. I ordered a beer for 5€ and was surprised to get a plate with it that was a full meal. As I was more hungry than thirsty, I finished the plate way before the beer and they offered me a second one (I was a bit embarrassed and refused because I couldn't eat more). Yes, the food is nothing special, but still a way better option than some other fast food places, tapas chains or tourist traps at the hot spots. It's not a culinary highlight, but you get stuffed with a good amount of decent food for a very good price. I definitely didn't regret going there and I guess no one will knowing what to expect.
Gracias por vuestros videos. Soy una española en California que añora su tierra y vuestro canal me recuerda tradiciones y comidas que deje hace mucho años. Os encontre hace poco y pienso seguiros. Keep up the good work!
I did eat in the plaza mayor and it was very expensive,
I will learn next time...Beautiful city..
This was lots of fun and I'll agree with what everyone has said about the transit in the comments too. I think a lot of Americans are shy about navigating by metro since very few cities here have good metro systems. It's unfamiliar. It's really awesome in Madrid, though, so it's definitely worth a go and it's not as hard to navigate as it may seem. Metro and walking are my preferred way to move about the city too. So much gorgeous architecture to appreciate along the journey and always something new to see.
Actually, theres some quite affordable places (with terrace) in Plaza Mayor.
You just have to look for places where there's mostly old spanish people and less travalers :)
One of the best videos about Madrid! Thank you for the great content.
We hired a private guide to tour the Prado & Reina-Sofia. It’s not inexpensive but WOW do you understand the art and the history which inspired it. We did one museum per day. After 4-5 hours of art touring we were fried. I cannot imagine trying to do more than 1 each day.
That black-and-white Grapes of Wrath crying scene is just completely freaking hysterically funny - so good. And the info & tips were great prep for a future visit. Make room on the shelf for your Oscar...
Had me laughing when El Tigre was brought-up. As a poor study-abroad student in 2014 & 2015, my classmates and I frequented it on multiple occasions.
The over-the-thumb rule would be, never eat at a restaurant that has pictures of the dishes hanging. By the way, James and Yoli, you’re some of the best damn food connoisseurs that I’ve seen on RUclips, your food videos are legendary. Keep it up! Un abrazo desde Barcelona.
Thanks James I'm thrilled to see my wise instructions are still remembered by you. Loved the B&W crying scene. John Blick (Dad)
John Blick you are the envy of fathers everywhere-to have your child quote your advice and call it sage and well founded is amazing!
I’ll intentionally break rule #2. Unapologetically too. Once Spain opens her borders, I’m gonna be all up in there, chillin in the cut!
Go for it!!
I will, too (in my dreams)! I live in Los Angeles, so I’m accustomed to frozen food being served in restaurants.😼
Yeah, it's kind of cool. I just make sure I pick what I eat there carefully
I love the coffee in Spain, and the best I ever had was on the island of Tenerife. The wine was always good as well. I never had a bad glass.
I don’t like Spanish coffee, myself. It tastes very strange! Except over ice....
@@aislingsibeallyons3416 You don't know what coffee is!
Cafe Varela at Hotel Preciados serves one of the best paellas I've ever had! And I've had it twice now.
I have never thought about visiting madrid in my life but thanks to your video i am at the moment in Madrid watching again your videos to visit the restaurants and the bars, i already went to the CHOCOLAT bar and i had the best churros and porras with the best chocolate ever this morning, tomorrow i'll visit a little bit of restaurants that you have mentioned in the videos to try! Thank you mate for all the advices and congrats for the princess! I'm so happy for the both of you!
You can be quick and kind with a smile.
The smiles in America cost an extra 20%.
I want to congrats you two for your channel, wich its wanderfull, And for giving all those nice tips and guides to the turist when they come so they have the best experience in our beautifull country thanks!
I am living in Madrid and all you said is on point.
I had already been warned not to bother eating at Plaza Mayor due to potentially being ripped off so I was pleasantly surprised when we had a lovely family meal experience there last month. It was a real quick stop off between arriving in Madrid for Parque Warner and Parque de Atracciones and moving on to Alicante to family and, outside of the theme parks, was the ONLY place I knew I had to visit before I left as my last name is Mayor!
I've only been twice in Madrid and on my second visit noticed this kind of efficient but not too friendly service. It works for me. They do like to be efficient and always do the right thing even for non Spanish speakers . The €10 menu del dia is always a life saver for any visitor. Not sure if this is still the price now though.
I stumbled upon one of your videos in the youtube feed and just kept watching more and more videos together with my wife. You guys are amazing - I love your content.
Only visited Madrid a long time ago, so unable to offer recent and relevant experiences to compare.
Visited other cities and regions like San Sebastian, Santiago de Compostela, Sevilla, Cadiz, Valencia, Ibiza, Granada, Malaga etc., which I liked a lot.
My favourite is oddly enough, Fuerteventura las Canarias. Just have a love of that volcanic island and really nice people I met there. Great, great sea food too!
I think I've been lucky, so I'll go back there again. Spain is wonderful and always surprising. Fell in live with the language and culture and a New Age is dawning.
This is a great vid 👏 One of my favourites ❤ A lot of good advice, and, as always, honest. It's a difficult time for a lot of people, but your videos allow us to travel (and escape) from our sofa's!
Cheers David!
I'm in central madrid and this is sound advice since the mid 1990s ! Never enter a restaurant that shows photos of its food outside is the the golden rule !
The only exception to this MIGHT be a Japanese restaurant. I remember there used to be Samurai restaurant near Plaza de Santa Domingo. It had wax models of the food set in the windows. That's a Japanese custom. It's normal in a Japanese restaurant. It is not normal in Spain, though.
Looking forward to seeing/receiving your latest update on Madrid. Many thanks.
I miss the aloof coolness of Madrid's waiters and I much prefer it to the phoney Americanised friendliness of some restaurant staff in London. Generally speaking being a waiter in Spain is a job not something you do before you become a famous actor or pop star. They may not smile all the time but Spanish waiters get it right mostly and the whole system of ordering and getting your food works like clockwork. That's what I miss most, I don't remember or care who smiled at me or where that was. 😊
I think there is a middle ground between being nice and being rude that some people just don’t get. Just because they are not being overly pleasing, does not mean they are being rude. Of course if you come from somewhere like the US, it comes off as rude but it’s just less friendly and slower service.
I only had two problems with this (both outside of Madrid), one was not just a rude waitress but the staff in general. I went out for lunch with some friends in Barcelona and everything was great until we got the bill. First there was a problem splitting the checks. This is unfortunately a problem in other parts of Spain as well and we were expecting it. I guess it is not a thing in Spain to split the checks 🤷🏻♀️.
The bigger problem was that the bill was significantly higher than what we calculated. According to the waitress,, they had to factor in the IVA. We told her the price on the menu includes the IVA and not only did she deny it but she went to talk with her co workers about us rather than try to solve the problem. This part was hilarious to me because she assumed we were all American and Brits and that we only spoke English. Oh what a surprise to her that our group included
- a Brazilian
- a Mexican
- a Peruvian
- One British woman who just so happened to speak fluent Spanish.
- me; a Dominican
There was no need for her to insult us with her co workers. We spoke with her, told her we understood what she was saying and eventually she fixed the bill. Later on I found out legally they are required to include the IVA on their menu.
There are rude waters all over the world and I could tell stories about US waiters as well. The reality is most waiters are not like that and if the only complaint is waiters didn’t smile or come running, people should really reconsider what they believe is good service.
Good service fot me: my food is served and it is great quality. My waiter is polite (i.e does not yell at me, insult me or try to take advantage of me as a tourist)
Bonus if I could get a recommendation but not necessary as I know it is controversial to recommend as a waiter.
@@Laflakitah809tl:dr Spanish waiters over North American
We visited Sevilla years ago and asked someone where we should go to get good paella. He thought for a moment and said "Valencia".
So a few years later we were in Valencia and went to a paella restaurant on the beach that was recommended. No one there spoke English, so I summoned my high school Spanish and placed an order. They told us to go for a walk on the beach and come back two hours later. We did, and the paella was amazing, flavourful and crusty and well worth the wait.
What kind of live tapa's and wine party are you having when you guys hit 100K subscribers? I'm in and would like to reserve my spot now. Cheers, another insightful look at Madrid!
Hmmmm not sure but we certainly should celebrate somehow! 🤩 it’s exciting!
I can’t wait to be able to travel! And your on the Top of our List! Last Spanish trip was Oct. 2019 to Seville.
We’ve just had a fantastic week in Madrid following a lot of help and advice from your vlogs. One piece of advice we might of missed is when travelling from madrid to sagovia by train we didn’t realise we needed passports to buy train tickets and we didn’t have them with us so couldn’t do the trip maybe it’s one thing to make clear to other travellers but on a brighter note it means we will be back to do the trip again another time 😎
A couple years ago, before I knew of you, we went on an Airbnb guided tapas tour our first night in Madrid. While there were some definite hits he introduced us to, but there were some misses too with regard to the churros y chocolate and paella. I sometimes think guides may think we want the tourist trap type of food. 🤷🏻♀️ We did have a very fun night regardless.
I love that you keep is real 100%. Cant wait to go back and hopefully book something with your company.
I wish I had watched this video before I went to Mercado San Miguel haha definitely can’t wait to come visit again, people in Madrid are definitely more welcoming than many other places in Europe!
I just moved to Madrid and been mostly doing apartment hunting and walking around the city to get a feel of all the neighborhoods. I only walk and sometimes take the metro if I am in a hurry. Even out of the historic center, the city is very walkable, the distances are super short. Yesterday I walked from 4caminos all the way to Lavapiés and along the river promenade. What a great way to feel the pulse of the city and get the daily steps in!
Great tips by the way, very useful for a newcomer.
I lived in Madrid for 5 years as a student and just left this year and I agree wholly - I come back to this channel from time to time to get a little hit of nostalgia when I feel I'm missing the city. Love your work ! Thank you for the beautiful memories Madrid, can't wait to visit again some day soon.
Edit - In fact lived on Lope de Vega in the video! And Calle Cuchilleros too, and I'm guilty of a relaxing Cafe con Leche at Eboli in the Plaza 🤣
I loveeeeeeee Madrid, I went in March of 2015 for a concert with one my sisters and we had a blast. We stayed in Paseo Recoleto in a hotel beside La Biblioteca Nacional. My sister and I walked everywhere (la Gran Via, Parque El Retiro, Plaza Mayor, Cibeles, etc) and we had so much fun exploring Madrid on foot. At that time I was watching Sin Tetas no hay Paraiso (the Spanish version, of course) and I was in love with Miguel Angel Silvestre lol, even I sent him a DM in tweeter, that I was going to Madrid. We went to eat paella en Calle de la Reina, I believe the restaurant was La Casa de la Paella, we had two jarras de sangria too. It was such an amazing city to visit. At that time I hadn't seen my sister in a long, long time (she lives in Sweden and I live in Canada, we were born in Panama). My favourite city ever!
Amazing content as always. The production values are excellent. The Lena you are using now gives great bokeh and the cut away was ace... “they don’t love me” 🤣
I was feeling nervous at first because when I ate in the Plaza Mayor with my host brother we had bocadillos de camarones but then it was quickly alleviated when you said thats the good thing to do! As soon as borders open up I am rushing over there
Glad I have eased your mind!
Bocadillo de calamares is always a good idea! There are still a couple of places around Plaza Mayor with them that are not pure tourist ripoffs. By the way, camarones is another delicious food (shrimps in Latin America, mini shrimps in Spain) but usually not taken in bocadillo (at least in Spain). Glad you liked Madrid!
if you want to get full for free/next to nothing, go to Granada
Love your channel! I was in Madrid, Toledo and Barcelona in 2017. But Madrid is special and I would love to come back. Greetings from Manila, Philippines.
This may be your best video. Very helpful and the little skit was absolutely hilarious! :)
I love Madrid , can’t wait to start traveling again ,
Me ha emocionado ver a los dueños del Melo's en el 8:58. Una pena que haya tenido que cerrar.
#من_هو_محمد
Quien es Muhammad?
Muhammad nació en La Meca en el año 570 dc, cuando el Cristianismo todavia no estaba completamente establecido en Europa, debido a que su padre falleció antes de su nacimiento y su madre murió poco tiempo despues, se hizo cargo de el uno después, sus tios, miembros de la respetada tribu de los Quraysh, A medida que iba creciendo iba siendo conocido por su veracidad, generosidad y sinceridad, y debido a ello se le buscaba como arbitro de las disputas. Los historiadores le describen como una persona serena y propensa a la meditacion.
Muhammad tenia una profunda naturaleza religiosa y detestaba la decadencia de la sociedad en la que vivia. Tenia por costumbre meditar de vez en cuando en la Cueva de Hira, cerca de la cima de Yabal al Nur, la Montaña de la Luz, en las proximidades de La Meca.
islamicbulletin.org/?page_id=401&lang=es
"Don't do all the wrong things and do all the right things"....I'm up for it!
Gracias - good to see you guys and I look forward to the trip to Madrid when we can.
Tony
I really enjoy your videos. I’ve been following y’all for a while now. Keep it up! Always entertaining and informative.
Never eat in a place with laminated menus, in addition in the U.K. never drink in a pub with a flat roof
I like the flat roof rule!
Well, in the U.K. if there's a flat roof, it might lead to problems if it rains.
@@johnr9763 More to do with walking out alive
This video is great. James advice was in my head for my visit. Really good ideas.
Cheers Mike!
Thank you so much for your amazing videos. Tbf you're one of the main reasons I chose to do my Erasmus in Madrid! Can't wait for next year!!!
Oh my gosh! Had me laughing hard with the part about mean waiters and owners! Lol.....loved the new video! Thanks! 😂😍
haha yeah, it's true
Glad you recommended Los Galayos. Have eaten there several and not bad meal. Enjoy the Aguadiente after desert! Awesome drink!
OMG!! Where the hell were you two when my friend and I stumbled our way around Madrid and Southern Spain.???? We could have seen more, enjoyed it more, eaten better and come home friends.
Haha, the Paella,good tip! Reminds me of the movie " European Vacation" where Chevy Chase was telling his family about awesome French cuisine while they were in a restaurant in Paris, back in the kitchen,the "chefs" were microwaving frozen tv dinners!! Only the best for American tourists!
It also seems true around Madrid that every time I go to a restaurant where the decor inside is really cool, the food is always really average!! This has happened to me a lot of times now
I can’t wait!
We travel a lot, watch a lot of You Tube videos before visiting. Yours is much better than most, well done! Will be in Madrid next week, sure this will help. Looking forward to that calamari sandwich
Was on one of your tours in Seville in 2019. It was really good - entertaining facts and great tapas. Would recommend.
Great video. Heading to Madrid in April 2024 and your information will be most helpful. Thanks.
Wow, guys you're reaching 100K in subscribers. It'll be awesome when you get there!
He totally deserves that 😍 Btw if you’re interested I also a channel with content from London, Greece and Italy ☺️
La Campana, una de las mejores recomendaciones.
Respecto a la paella, después de 11 años viviendo en Sueca (Valencia) donde se celebra el concurso internacional de paellas, te puedo decir que en Madrid (y otros sitios de España) son tan buenas y tan malas como en Valencia. El problema no es el lugar, a día de hoy con los medios de transporte de mercancías no hay distancias, el problema es el local y el reclamo turístico, se debe huir de todo local que parezca mínimamente orientado al turista. Los mejores sitios para comer paella (Madrid, Valencia, o cualquier otro lugar de España) es en arrocerías o locales que no viven del turismo y tienen costumbre de hacer paella (la mayoría de las veces por encargo). Pero si te las hacen al momento (menos de 30min) y están en una zona turística, da igual que estés en Valencia, te servirán porquería.
Resumiendo, vayas donde vayas, come donde veas comiendo a la gente que vive en ese lugar.
Good tip on the museums. It's true for any super popular tourist attraction. Just don't go there unprepared.
I had an Amstel beer and a calamari sandwich there. It was fun. We were there with a group of local teachers and school kids.
Regarding service and waiters. There isn't a tipping culture in Spain so the waiters don't sell themselves trying to maximise tips. I find they are often professional waiters , so its not a temporary job like it is in many other countries. So they work fast, and efficiently because they are being paid by the business or its their own business and spending more time with you will not make them anymore money. Unlike the US where the business often doesn't pay servers or pays very little and servers live off tips.
Hope we will be able see Spain again.❤️
You've created something amazing here. Great videos all around. Congrats and thanks a lot!
Great video ❤
hi guys I am lucia y vivo en miami florida i love your videos this video is a great one👍 thankyou for the work you do i love spain specially the food
Great tips but the best part was the black and white scene!
haha glad you enjoyed it
How much does it snow there?
I want to come visit you guys in Madrid 😭😭😭😭
Great video!
Absolutely agree! As a madrileña, La Campana is one of the best place in Madrid to eat "Bocadillo de calamares" I love it.
This is a great channel, always interesting and you can see the professional quality content and editing. Great couple who work so well together. I think they could make a video on a empty plate and it would still be interesting.
The black and white scene is a blast! Made my day :) Thank you!
A friendly note: There´s something you´re not getting exactly right about the "tapas culture", and that is confusing "tapas" with "raciones". Traditionally, in Madrid and some other places, tapas are small portions that the bars give you for free when you order drinks (aperitivos), but if you order 'tapas' (and therefore you pay for them), then you get larger portions that are (or were) called "raciones". Hence, when you order "una de bravas (or whatever)", you don´t mean "tapa de bravas" but "ración de bravas" (in fact, you shouldn´t ask for a "carta de tapas", but one of "raciones"). That said, there is a good number of bars in Madrid where you can have your "meal" just from the tapas you get by ordering a few drinks, but maybe you just have to find them outside of the most popular areas (and still search a little). Saludos.
I really like the way you both explain, very detailed information.