La Esperanza

Javier Moya’s gastronomical reach is growing in Madrid. Having set up and triumphed in Atocha with three restaurants in the Triciclo group, he's expanded to C/ del Olmo with his La Esparanza bar, along with chef Ferrán Blanch.

The idea is for the bar to look like an updated version of one that's been around the area forever – thus its '70s aesthetic with spherical lamps, marble bar, upholstered stools and Duralex plates (those amber ones your grandma still has), which all give it a retro-modern flair. The result is a clientele that spans generations, from pensioners to millennials, everyone happily sharing space at the bar with a vermouth in one hand and a tapa in the other.

The menu is similarly pleasing for all. You'll find delicious cheeses and cold cuts as well as a Zucchini Burrata salad, with courgettini, burrata, pine nuts and sun-dried tomatoes. The classic 'patatas bravas' and the Mallorcan Coca bread topped with roasted peppers, spinach and sardines really do deserve their fame. And you won't want to miss out on the Bomba de la Barceloneta (Bolognese-style meat surrounded by creamy potato that's breaded and fried like a croquette) or the Valencian-style Fideuá with squid and prawns. They've also got some great stews and sandwiches. Try ordering dishes at a half portion so you can taste more of a variety.

La Esperanza has a bit of everything on its more or less classic menu, with familiar Spanish cuisine that's very tasty indeed.