Celso y Manolo

A modern take on the classic Madrid taberna in the middle of Chueca — updated versions of croquetas, huevos estrellados, and other castizo staples, in a bright, comfortable dining room built for lingering rather than standing.

It's a genuine sit-down restaurant rather than a bar-counter tapas spot, so it's a good choice if standing-room tabernas aren't your preference. Reserve for weekend dinner, when the Chueca crowd fills tables fast. The croquetas are consistently cited as among the best updated versions of the classic in the neighbourhood.