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

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Must-see attractions
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Casa Labra

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Madrid tavern since 1860, famed for its legendary fried cod and croquettes, steeped in history.
"Stepping into Casa Labra is like stepping back in time—a place where history lingers in the air."
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.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Tapas bar
Price
$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Perfectly Fried Cod
Golden, flaky, and delicately briny cod, a testament to generations of perfected technique.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
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
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Casa Labra is most famous for its exceptionally fried cod (bacalao) and its creamy cod croquettes, which are considered Madrid classics.
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.
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.
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.
Vermouth de grifo (house vermouth on tap) is highly recommended to pair with the cod dishes, as is a cold 'caña' (small beer).
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.
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A centuries-old tavern seeping with history (it was the site of the foundation of one of Spain’s most important political parties, the PSOE), Casa Labra offers a modern approach to typical Spanish cuisine. Many of its classic dishes are centered on cod (cod with tomato sauce, cod with green sauce, cod with wild mushrooms and leek, etc.) but they also have a great variety of meat dishes, typical Spanish starters and, of course, tapas. You can either eat something standing in the bar area or sit down and have a meal in their dining room.
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As we approach Puerta del Sol, it is imperative not to miss the historic Madrid tapas bar, Casa Labra, renowned as the birthplace of the Spanish socialist party but also, and perhaps most importantly so, for offering an amazing choice of vermouth, fino sherry and other local wines complete with their to-die-for salt cod croquettes and deep-fried tajada de bacalao (another iconic dish of Madrid). The place opened its doors in 1860 and has gone down in history, primarily, as a stomping ground of Federico García Lorca, a celebrated Spanish poet and playwright who was tragically killed during the Spanish Civil War in 1936.
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Como buenos amantes de las croquetas, nos las queremos comer de todos los sabores y tamaños, pero hay una en concreto que es reconocida como una de las mejores tapas de Madrid: la croqueta de bacalao de Casa Labra (calle Tetuán, 12) Es una taberna centenaria con decoración de la época, llena de historia y… llena de gente.!. Pero te atenderán rápido, no desesperes, además no necesitas mesa, ya que la vas a comer de pie en la barra o en las mesas de fuera. Las croquetas se piden por unidades y son de buen tamaño, pero seguro que pides más de una… Eso sí, ¡no cometas el error de principiante de quemarte el paladar!.
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Vermouth isn't your grandfather's drink anymore, and Casa Labra isn't your grandfather's bar. Okay, so a good part of its clientele may be made up of old men who have been going there for decades, but for every Spanish abuelo propping up the bar, you'll find a group of young madrileños enjoying drinks and tapas out on the terrace. Their house vermouth is among Madrid's best, and living proof as to why this dark, slightly sweet white wine is enjoying a resurgence in popularity among Spain's youth.
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Right next to the Corte Inglés building just off the plaza Puerta del Sol is a bar we go to drink little glasses of beer (cañas) or vermouth and more importantly to enjoy the house specialty for which the bar is famous, cod croquettes and fried cod pieces. Its also one of the older bars in the city and known for having been the place the Socialist party was founded in 1860. Order and pay for your tapas as you enter then drinks at the bar.
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Casa Labra has special historical significance because the Spanish Socialist party was established here in 1879. When you enter, you'll get the impression that the dark wood interior and Spanish-style d�cor appears to have changed very little over the past 100 or so years, and this just adds to the tavern's charm. Even today, the restaurant still maintains a special place in the hearts and of Madrid's locals and visitors.
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Starting with the traditional, Casa Labra is a century-old tavern that has been passed down from generation to generation, where the atmosphere and the premises have been maintained with great care and dedication since 1860. Its speciality is cod and its croquettes are famous in Madrid. They have worked on their specialities, moving towards a more modern cuisine but always maintaining the most classic cod recipes.
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There are some bars that, rather than advertise their existence, seem to actively discourage new clientele. As soon as you walk through the door you feel like Luke Skywalker walking into the Cantina on Tatooine; the music stops, the patrons turn to give you withering looks and the bartender ignores you when you try to order a drink. Back in the late 1800s, Casa Labra was just such a place.
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Come to Casa Labra (Calle de Tetuán, 12) for the history; stay for the incredible salt cod dishes. This place opened its doors in 1860 and, less than 20 years later, witnessed the founding of Spain’s largest left-wing political party (the PSOE) within its walls. Not much has changed at Casa Labra in the 160 years since its founding, and that’s just the way we like it.
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If you are looking for croquettes, the delicious and iconic dish made by battering and frying bechamel sauce, Casa Labra will be one of the best tapas bars to visit in Madrid. It boasts of a historic location, which opened in the nineteenth century and used to serve host to political gatherings. When there’s good weather, the outside seating is just lovely.
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In Madrid's central Sol district, Casa Labra (going strong since 1860) is packed with locals who throng the restaurant's elegantly austere, high-ceilinged interior for the house speciality – salt cod. Served by efficient, white-jacketed staff, it’s best eaten deep-fried or cooked in plump, creamy croquetas, paired with a little glass of vermouth.
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Tied with Bodega La Ardosa, Casa Labra is one of the most emblematic places of the capital and for this reason, one the busiest. Their large sized cod croquettes are a popular specialty. Despite its location (it is situated right in the centre of the city), this place is suitable for all budgets with prices between one and two euros per serving.
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Very close to Puerta del Sol (C / Tetuán, 12), a century-old tavern that has remained unperturbed since 1860. It witnessed the clandestine foundation of the PSOE at the hands of Pablo Iglesias. It keeps the service separate: food (tapas) is ordered in a kind of box office with a counter, and drinks are ordered at the bar.
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Casa Labra is a hundred-year-old tavern that remains almost unchanged since 1860. Some of their specialty tapas include cod and cod croquettes, tortilla de patata (potato tortilla), and escabeche tuna. You can also order some small portions ( raciones) of salad, manchego cheese, chorizo, and Iberic ham.
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Casa Labra: Casa Labra is also well-known among the locals for its tapas, especially its cod dishes. The pub has been witness to much of the country's history, as it was popular among intellectuals since the 1860s and the place where one of the two major political parties still active today was funded.
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A short stroll from the bustling Puerta del Sol, Casa Labra has been serving cod croquettes and fried bacalao since 1860. This historic tavern is famed for its no-frills standing-only bar and the charming tradition of ordering food at one counter and drinks at another. Locals love it—and you will too.
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After work Madrileños love to go out for the aperitivo, an aperitif hour where they drink beer or vermouth and snack on simple tapas. One of the best places for a quick but satisfying snack is Casa Labra. Stand in line for their fried cod and cod croquettes, and wash it down with the house vermouth.
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In the evening, if you want to taste fried cod (fantastic croquettes) go to Casa Labra at Calle Tetuán 12, and then enjoy the Movida in the area of Malasaña. I recommend La Vía Láctea pub, Calle de Velarde 18: good music and you can also dance.
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This old tavern was founded in 1860 and is located at 12 Tetuan Street, near Puerta del Sol. Its main attraction is tapas, mainly of cod, in slices and freshly fried croquettes. In its salon you can also enjoy cod prepared in different ways.
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Another historic Madrid tapas bar, Casa Labra is famous for being the place where the Spanish socialist party was founded. But apart from politics, people come here to chow down on an amazing combination of vermouth and salt cod croquettes.
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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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Google map the location | Visit their site | Price range: €-€€. Casa Labra is another institution in Madrid. This historic restaurant that has been open since 1860 specializes in cod or bacalao in Spanish.
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This franchise house established in 1860 created the Spanish dish known as bacalao croquettes, which is salted cod. Try these scrumptious croquettes with beer or vermouth with a history of this delicacy.
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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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A calamari sandwich in Plaza Mayor and battered cod at Casa Labra (next to Puerta del Sol) are two very traditional Madrilenian treats. You can try them at any time.
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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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Centrally located Casa Labra is just behind the main square Sol. This is one of the most popular bars in Madrid.
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