Every night, people meet in the streets, go to numerous sidewalk caf�s, caf�-bars and restaurants in the area of La Puerta del Sol. Likewise, there are lots of traditional restaurants around the Plaza Mayor (although it�s best to avoid the touristy ones on the square itself), as well as excellent gourmet tapas bars, a relatively recent phenomenon. Also, between Sol and Tirso de Molina there's a trio of eating spots all called Las Bravas and all specializing in this simple but filling dish, though it's also widely available in tapas bars.

Two examples of delicious cuisine in an enjoyable place are "Las Cuevas de Lu�s Candelas" and "El Bot�n". In fact, said to be the oldest restaurant in the world, Bot�n first opened its doors below the Plaza Mayor in 1725. In "El Bot�n" the speciality are Traditional Castillian dishes. In "Las Cuevas de Lu�s Candelas" they offer better value and a relaxed convivial atmosphere in the brick-vaulted cellar with tiled bar, wall paintings, wrought iron fittings and an open fire for the suckling pig speciality.

Las Cuevas de Lu�s Candelas
Arco de Cuchilleros 1
Tel: (91) 366 5428.

Bot�n
Calle Cuchilleros 17
Tel: (91) 366 4217.

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� Eating in Madrid