Ordering a beer in Madrid and getting the bill without a shock has become a challenge. The chalkboards with affordable prices are disappearing in favor of Baos, the bar that boasts of having authentic torrezno from Soria, gyoza with any filling, and any ready-to-eat product worth its salt.
And so, as the most regulars at the metal bars admit, finding a good and affordable spot “is tough, huh.” However, ordering generous portions without breaking the bank is a reality if you have the right coordinates on your radar. And we have them.
The tapas festival in the Ascao neighborhood
The route takes us to Cervecería El Mago, located at 11 Esteban Collantes Street. Just a few meters from the Ascao metro station, in the Ciudad Lineal district, this traditional bar welcomes its customers with the golden rule of the classic neighborhood bar: the first drink always comes with its corresponding tapa.
From there, the menu offers classic options to whet your appetite. The Russian salad, for 5.95 euros, is creamy, features few ingredients, and gets straight to the point “without any frills,” says our reporter Pedro Pineda. The spread continues with patatas bravas for just €1.95. The sauce is “a tad spicy, with plenty of cumin and paprika,” proving that you can still order this Madrid classic for less than two euros—or even just one.
Skewers, seafood, and a ticket from another era
The griddle also dominates the meat-based bites. Each pincho moruno costs 0.95 euros each , standing out for its impeccable cooking, “a delicious marinade, and juicy meat.” If you prefer dipping bread in oil, the garlic shrimp arrive at the table piping hot for 4.95 euros. A surefire dish for mopping up the pan.
The star dish of the order is the grilled baby squid. They’re served directly on a crispy toast generously spread with aioli. When the dreaded moment of asking for the bill arrives, the numbers justify the trip. This entire spread of food, easily enough for two people to eat, comes to a total of 22.45 euros. Real numbers for enjoying traditional home-style cooking.