Recounting Two Short Visits to Madrid
Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, has a magnetic allure that draws visitors back time and time again. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary delights, each visit offers new discoveries and memorable experiences.
Here I recount two short visits to Madrid, filled with strolls, laughter, and delicious cuisine.
January 2024 Visit
In January, after a long flight from Colorado, Madrid welcomed with open arms. Joined by Andrea, we wasted no time delving into the city’s offerings. We spent an evening wandering through Recoletos, where we indulged in some leisurely window shopping amidst the elegant streets. As hunger beckoned, we found ourselves at Fismuler, a modern restaurant known for its delectable seafood. Savoring every bite, we ate a delicious rice dish, pulpo (Octapus) and other delights, before heading to Aréis Colonial Chill Out bar for post-dinner drinks.
The following day, we embarked on a cultural exploration, visiting the enigmatic Temple of Debod and the majestic Royal Palace. Along the way, we encountered the holiday tree at Plaza de Isabel II, admired the Julia sculpture by Jaume Plensa, and soaked in the ambiance of Plaza de Colón. Eager to experience Madrid’s culinary scene, we dined at the trendy Chambao restaurant, famed for its exquisite seafood and lively atmosphere, complete with live music and dancers.
February 2024 Visit
February brought us back to Madrid, this time on Valentine’s Day. Eager to explore new culinary delights, we went to El Rey de Tallarines, a Chinese restaurant recommended by Andrea’s mother. Little did we know, we were in for an evening filled with unexpected twists and playful banter.
As we settled into our seats, we were greeted by a jovial waiter with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Hailing from India, he had a flair for comedy that added a delightful charm to our dining experience. With impeccable timing and a deadpan delivery, he kept us on our toes from the moment we placed our order.
When the time came to order noodles, our waiter, with a straight face, informed us that they were out of noodles. “But this is a noodle restaurant,” I protested in Spanish, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected declaration. However, before we could react, a mischievous grin spread across his face, revealing the playful jest behind his words.
As he returned with our dishes, he placed one plate of noodles in front of me and two in front of Andrea, causing a moment of confusion. “I thought you wanted two!” he exclaimed with mock innocence, feigning ignorance to our previous order. Laughter filled the air as we realized we had fallen victim to his playful prank.
Throughout the evening, our waiter continued to regale us with witty remarks and humorous anecdotes, turning a simple meal into a memorable comedy show. From his lighthearted quips to the mandarin oranges he brought us “for dessert,” he brought unexpected joy to our dining experience, reminding us that laughter truly is the best seasoning.
As we savored the flavors of not only the noodles but also an excellent dim sum sampler, we couldn’t help but notice the city’s acknowledgment of Chinese New Year, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to our visit. With hearts and stomachs full, we bid farewell to Madrid, bound for our next adventure in Dublin.
Conclusion
With each visit, Madrid reveals new facets of its charm, leaving us eagerly anticipating our next encounter. From culinary delights to cultural discoveries and moments of laughter, these short sojourns enriched our lives and deepened our love for this enchanting city. Until next time, Madrid, adiós y hasta luego!
