Tucked into a corner of old Madrid, Restaurante Malacatín has been serving its famous cocido madrileño since 1895, making it one of the city's fifteen officially recognised centenary restaurants. Step inside and you're greeted by décor that has barely changed in decades, with wooden beams, old photographs and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere that instantly transports diners back to a bygone era of the Spanish capital.

The star of the show is, without question, the cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew served in traditional courses that begins with a rich broth and moves through vegetables, meats and sausages. Portions are generous, often prompting diners to ask for a doggy bag, and the kitchen happily lets guests request seconds of any element of the dish. It's a meal built for sharing stories as much as food, and one that has earned the restaurant a loyal following among locals and curious visitors alike.

Now run by the fourth generation of the same family, Malacatín offers more than just a meal, it offers a genuine slice of Madrid's culinary heritage. With thousands of glowing reviews, an award for its cocido soup, and a reputation that has stood for well over a century, this is a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste authentic, old-school Madrid cuisine in a setting that feels wonderfully untouched by time.