La Nieta

La Nieta is a useful answer when Chueca’s appetite requires more than tapas but less than ceremony. The room is informal, the hours broad and the menu grounded in Spanish comfort: cocido madrileño, callos, cochinillo, calamari and roast meats, alongside croquetas, huevos rotos and rice dishes designed for sharing. Some plates lean more contemporary, with truffle, kimchi or Asian seasoning appearing around the edges, but the kitchen is at its most persuasive when it trusts slow cooking and a generous sauce. The daily menu is good value, while dinner invites a longer order and a bottle of red. Ask about the cocido rather than assuming its daily availability; the house also prepares lechazo and cochinillo asado to order. Service moves briskly and portions reward appetite. La Nieta is not delicate, minimalist or interested in being the newest room in Madrid. It is a dependable neighbourhood restaurant with enough range to settle a mixed table, and enough traditional instinct to make cold weather feel like a reason to eat more.