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Casa Labra

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A historic Madrid tavern since 1860, famed for its legendary fried cod and croquettes, steeped in history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

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Casa Labra

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Madrid tavern since 1860, famed for its legendary fried cod and croquettes, steeped in history.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Stepping into Casa Labra is like stepping back in time—a place where history lingers in the air."

TIP

Separate Queues

Opt for takeout in a separate queue for a quicker dining experience.

Pair with Vermouth

Enhance flavors with a glass of vermouth de grifo, a local specialty.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 6:30PM

Cuisine

Tapas bar

Price

$

Phone

+34 915 31 06 16

Address

C. de Tetuán, 12, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Bacalao Croquettes

Legendary Bacalao Croquettes

Crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside. A must-try!

TikTokGoogle Review+6
Historic Ambiance

Historic Ambiance

Step back in time in this centuries-old tavern, birthplace of a political party and frequented by poets.

The 10 Best Restaurants In Puerta Del Sol MadridA Self-Guided Food Walk in MadridMadrid Tapas Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant Reviews
Perfectly Fried Cod

Perfectly Fried Cod

Golden, flaky, and delicately briny cod, a testament to generations of perfected technique.

TikTokGoogle Review+6
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Casa Labra, Madrid #madrid #spain #casalabra #tapas
@sybaritaonabudget
11 likes • 1.1K views

Separate Queues

Opt for takeout in a separate queue for a quicker dining experience.

Pair with Vermouth

Enhance flavors with a glass of vermouth de grifo, a local specialty.

El PP se fundó en un restaurante?? Quiero ir 🫵🏼 Casa Labra es uno de los restaurantes más históricos de Madrid y, por eso mismo, pensaba que iba a ser mñeee. Pues el bacalao está de narices, lo recomiendo al 1000%. #restaurantesmadrid #tabernamadrid #baresmadrid #barmadrid #bacalao
@josefoodvibes
6.9K likes • 144.3K views
📍 Casa Labra in Madrid. Best known for Tajadas de Bacalao - 10/10 #madrid #madrideats #bacalao #friedfish #fyp #vermouth
@foodiefinds_
27 likes • 2.8K views

Avoid Peak Hours

Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid long queues.

Order & Pay First

Order and pay for tapas as you enter, then drinks at the bar.

3 sitios a los que puedes ir de tapeo por Madrid 🌟

#tapeo #tapeopormadrid #madrid #descubremadrid #madridlowcost #comerenmadrid #peztortilla #casalabra #mercadosanmiguel
@auroraguijarro
2K likes • 169.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Separate Queues

Opt for takeout in a separate queue for a quicker dining experience.

Pair with Vermouth

Enhance flavors with a glass of vermouth de grifo, a local specialty.

Avoid Peak Hours

Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid long queues.

Order & Pay First

Order and pay for tapas as you enter, then drinks at the bar.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Casa Labra is celebrated for its historic ambiance and iconic fried cod and croquettes, which consistently receive high praise for their taste and texture. While many patrons enjoy the traditional experience and affordable prices, some reviews mention a disjointed payment system and occasional service lapses. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a highly recommended spot for authentic Madrid tapas.

"Stepping into Casa Labra is like stepping back in time—a place where history lingers in the air, where the walls whisper stories of Madrid’s past, and where tradition is not just preserved but revered. This centenary tavern remains a beacon of authenticity, offering a glimpse into an era when craftsmanship, honor, and a commitment to doing things right were paramount.

The star of the menu is, without question, the bacalao in its two legendary forms: the fried cod—golden, flaky, and infused with a delicate brininess that speaks of the sea—and the bacalao croquettes, which are nothing short of exquisite. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast between the crisp exterior and the creamy, flavorful interior, a testament to generations of perfected technique.

To accompany these delicacies, a vermouth de grifo is the only logical choice. Served just as it should be—cold, aromatic, and with just the right balance of bitterness—it heightens the experience, making each sip feel like a small celebration of Madrid’s culinary heritage.

If there’s one drawback, it’s the payment system, which remains oddly disjointed. Having to place an order at a separate register before collecting it at the bar adds an unnecessary layer of complexity, disrupting the otherwise seamless experience.

Yet, this is a small inconvenience in a place that embodies the soul of Madrid. The timeless décor, untouched by fleeting trends, transports you to a more dignified era—one where refinement and tradition reigned supreme. Casa Labra is not just a meal; it is an experience, a pilgrimage to the very essence of Madrid’s culinary legacy."

Q G

"We ordered the tajada de bacalao, the croquetas and also the banderilla the atum. The tajadas definitely a must try, it tasted amazing, so crunchy, the salted cod was delicious and not too salty. The portion size is not the biggest, definitely 2 pieces per person. Don't bother with the banderilla de atum, literally just a piece of tinned tuna with a slice of tomato."

Cristina Bell

"Get the Bacalao! It is their staple for a reason! Their croquets with fish were also the best I had!! A pleasant surprise ware the empanadas! We were seated without any waiting and service was fast, efficient and professional! Beers were tiny… get the bigger size"

Maria Stoimenova

What People Like

Iconic cod croquettes and fried cod
Historic and charming atmosphere
Authentic tapas experience

What People Dislike

Disjointed payment system
Occasional inattentive service

Frequently Asked Questions

Casa Labra is most famous for its exceptionally fried cod (bacalao) and its creamy cod croquettes, which are considered Madrid classics.

TikTokGoogle Review+1

Casa Labra is historically significant as it was the birthplace of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) in 1879 and was frequented by poet Federico García Lorca.

The 10 Best Restaurants In Puerta Del Sol MadridA Self-Guided Food Walk in MadridMadrid Tapas Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant Reviews

Reservations are typically not required, as it's a traditional tapas bar where people often stand at the bar or at small tables. Be prepared for queues, especially during peak times.

Las Mejores Tapas de Madrid en 2025Madrid Tapas Bars

The system can be a bit unusual; you usually order and pay for your food at one counter and then get your drinks at the bar. Some find it slightly disjointed.

Madrid Tapas BarsGoogle Review

Vermouth de grifo (house vermouth on tap) is highly recommended to pair with the cod dishes, as is a cold 'caña' (small beer).

TikTokA Self-Guided Food Walk in MadridThe 15 Best Bars in Madrid+1

It's excellent for a quick bite of tapas like croquetas and fried cod. While you can stand and eat, there are also options for sitting down for a meal.

The 10 Best Restaurants In Puerta Del Sol MadridMadrid Tapas Bars

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On the wall of Casa Labra is a sign reading “Se Prohibe Cantar” (No Singing). The story I was told was that back in the day, people were not allowed to sing in bars. The reasoning went that singing could lead to more rowdy, drunken antics.

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Order your delectable croquetas from the small counter to the right, then head to the bar to order a thimble-sized glass of beer or wine to accompany the oozy, creamy morsels.

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Casa Labra - Famous for its delectable cod bites (tajadas de bacalao), this historic tavern near Puerta del Sol has been serving locals and tourists since 1860.

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