In the heart of Las Letras neighborhoodone of the areas with the most history and cultural life of Madridthere is a restaurant That it is a classic in the city, not only for the quality of its product, but also because it seems to have stopped time. Its delicious recipes still cook as before, but also their building itself, it is An old seventeenth -century house that housed Miguel de Cervantes himself. The aroma of homemade stew and the walls full of history turn this place into much more than a site to eat: it is a corner in which the memory of the city continues to beating hard.
Alberto Casa, founded in 1827, It is much more than a centenary tavern. It is a more castizo living testimony, the one that mixes literature, gastronomy, wine and tradition at the same table. His red facade, unmistakable, refers us to the time when (according to the legend) the colors were guide for those who did not know how to read, and the red meant what many were looking for: a place to drink, talk and eat well. The funny thing is that, almost 200 years after its opening, that same spirit remains intact. In fact today, this tavern who refuses to modernize his soul has a Sun Repsola book that includes its history and a menu that honors the best of Madrid cuisine. And the best? You have everything at your fingertips, in the center of Madrid.
The Madrid restaurant was the house of Cervantes
The first impression is visual: An intense red facade that stands out among the others in the neighborhood. Apparently, it is not just something aesthetic, it is pure history. It is said that in the seventeenth century, when most Madrid did not know how to read, it was usual to paint the red taverns so that everyone could identify them as the place where wine was served. Casa Alberto maintains that color as a wink to the past and tribute to that story.
When you cross the threshold, one feels that it enters at another time. The tin bar, the tiles, the old photographs and the bullfighting and literary memories They speak for themselves. No one needs to tell you: the place has a soul, and it shows. Besides, A discreet council plate remembers that Cervantes wrote there part of the second part of Quijote, the works of Persiles and Segismunda and the trip to the Parnassus. Every corner, every detail, whispers something from the past.
A kitchen that does not go out of style
The true heart of Casa Alberto is in his kitchen. There are no flourishes or experiments here: there is tradition. Dishes that have survived the passage of time thanks to their authenticity, such as calluses in the Madrid, the stews stewed, the little hands stuffed with a stew tail or the complete cooked of Thursdays, that continues to serve the old woman for 20 euros.
But if there is an undisputed star in the letter is the Stew toro tail. Juicy, tender, cooked over low heat Until the meat gets rid of the fork alone. A dish that summarizes what Alberto is Casa: deep taste, care in the elaboration and absolute respect for the original recipe. It is one of those stews that are no longer cooked at home, and that here, on the other hand, they remain with the dignity they deserve. And if that were not enough, the house vermouth (served with its corresponding lid) is another must.
From neighborhood tavern to gastronomic temple
Casa Alberto is part of the Association of Centennial Taverns and Restaurants of Madrid, And it’s not for less. It has been serving food, wine and hospitality for almost 200 years. Its history has gone from hand to hand, from the Segovian founders who opened it in the 19th century to Alfonso Delgadocurrent owner, which has been in charge of the business for more than three decades. It was he who, in the 80s, took the witness when the place ran out of heirs.
Delgado has managed to maintain the essence without neglecting recognition: in 2015, the Repsol Guide gave him a sun, and the place went on to occupy a prominent place in Madrid gastronomy. But beyond the awards, which distinguishes home Alberto is its ability to be at the same time a place of passage for tourists and a shelter for Madrid looking for the usual flavors.
An experience that goes beyond the dish
Eating Alberto’s house is not just satisfying the appetite. It is living a cultural, historical and emotional experience. The menu, although resounding and traditional, also keeps small unexpected treasures: Croquettes of squid in its ink, scrambled with cod with straw potatoes, cheek with potato puree, leeks gratin with goat cheese.All served with care and a presentation that respects the essence of the homemade.
And when the time of dessert comes, the thing does not decay. Torrija with vanilla ice cream is a comforting classic, but pannacotta with raspberry sauce is not far behind. Final sweets for a meal that does not need tricks: only product, trade and affection.
Although the place does not accept reservations for the bar zone, yes You can book table in the restaurant. ANDSo yes: it is convenient to arrive with time and patience, because the wait is worth it.
