Sagarexte

Pinchos (small pieces of bread with something exciting on with a thick cocktail stick holding it together) have become one of my hobbies in Madrid.  When you're not quite hungry enough for a full meal here in Spain, a pincho bar is the place to go.

If you can deal with the hustle and bustle of the experience then it's well worth visiting Sagarexte, in Madrid's Chamberí area.  This Basque restaurant, renowned for it's cider and cod, rolls out the most exciting array of pinchos you can imagine. Roquefort, almond and raisin ; battered cod ; crab salad topped with langoustine ; tortilla and sweet pepper ; salmon and cream cheese ; brie with raspberry jam; cod croqueta ; piquillo pepper stuffed with bechamel and cod - just to name a few of the forever evolving range. The selection is fantastic and the wonderful thing is that you can actually try a bit of everything - that's what makes the experience so unique.

As a warning, you're best to get there early (7pm) because once it's busy getting served is pretty tough (especially if you can't hold your own against the keen queue-jumping locals).  You'll also need to have your wits about you if you want to get the fresh hot pinchos.  Keep an eye on the kitchen window and you shouldn't miss out.  There is some seating available outside but you'll end up yoyo-ing in and out to work out which pinchos you want with your next caña anyway.

Yummy food and great cider, but not for the faint-hearted.    


Price: 12€ per person (based on a two drinks and four pinchos).

Service: ☆☆
Food: ☆☆☆☆☆
Decor: ☆☆

www.sagaretxe.com