Madrid · Lavapies

El Brillante

Steps from Atocha station, this casual bar has served Madrid's iconic bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) since 1952.

About El Brillante

Steps from Atocha station, this casual bar has served Madrid's iconic bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) since 1952. The calamari is fried to order and stuffed into fresh baguettes, creating the perfect quick meal for travelers or a post-Reina Sofia snack.

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The details

Practical bits

WalkingMinimal walking

The place

Getting there

Address

Pl. del Emperador Carlos V, 8, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Neighborhood

Lavapies →

Nearest Metro

Line 3 to LavapiesLine 1 to Atocha Renfe (eastern edge)Line 1 to Tirso de Molina (northern edge)

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Good to know

Tips, answered

Order your bocadillo with extra lemon and don't skip the cold beer; locals eat standing at the outdoor tables facing the Reina Sofia.

Plan for about 30 minutes.

El Brillante is in the Lavapies neighborhood of Madrid. The address is Pl. del Emperador Carlos V, 8, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain. The area is well-served by metro.

This works well at any time of day, though mornings tend to be quieter. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Closed on Tuesday. Check the official website for holiday closures and special hours.

Around the corner

Nearby in Lavapies

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Museum

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Cultural Site

Cine Doré - Filmoteca Española

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Museum

Matadero Madrid

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Market

Mercado de San Fernando

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Market

Mercado de Antón Martín

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