I did MLK there two years ago and had a blast (as usual). I have friends who live in Madrid, so they know all the good spots.

IMO theres never a bad time to go to Madrid!

Seconding winter being a fine time to visit. I actually met thepointsguy last NYE, and the city was energetic and fun, despite the cold. We had a blast. As most folks know, it's a 'late' city so bars / clubs are open till all hours of the night (morning?), with something for everyone.

And what a pleasure that was! Can't wait for round two in Rio :D:D:D

Awesome! can't wait to go :) As of right now it looks like Quickerthantheticker will be joining me, so it should be a blast :)

I'm actually heading over in Feb with the BF. We'll probably book into the Westin to enjoy my soon to be earned SPG plat. :)

But would love some current restaurant recommendations and nightlife options. I've never been to MAD before....was in BCN last year for NYE. Had a really great time...Looking forward to returning to Spain!

thepointsguy, you know my style. Any pointers? :)

+1 ???

They treat Plats there very well. We got an amazing suite on our last visit - so amazing, we had to make a movie of the whole place, including the foyer, living room, hallways, powder room, plus the bedroom suite!

Our favorite restaurant is Prada a Tope, Calle Principe 11. Great tapas, owner is wonderful. Enjoy! We're heading back in July again.

From my friend who lives there (and is fabulous- I will put you in touch with her):

Lateral- There are several locations but I recommened one specific one. It´s in plaza santa ana, a short walk from metro´s sevilla or sol. I highly recommened the ´Degustacion de pinchos´ to share for 2 people, its like a tapas tasting plate. website is http://www.cadenalateral.es/la_carta/la_carta.html

Casa Abuelo, calle victoria 12, near sol metro, is good for very authentic ´madrid´meats and fish and cheese and stuff. Its more of a tavern feel but the food is fantastic.
http://www.lacasadelabuelo.es/

Nicer:
Public Restaurant, its trendier, near Chueca or Gran Via metros calle desengaño 11
http://www.restaurantpublic.com/

ALSO cute wine bars to try are
Aroma in metro Tribunal
calle de la palma 25

La Mantequeria
Amazing wine and adorable atmosphere
also have great tostas to munch on
Calle San bernadino 7
metro noviciado or plaza espana

Thanks, guys, for the recommendations. Looking forward to checking them out. ^

Any nightlife recs?

How could I forget?
I personally love Why Not. Its kind of like Vlada, but more fun, more crowded and better music.

I also enjoy going to Ghetto for pre-club drinks. Its right in Chueca and as the name implies, is very low key.

I havent been in a year, but will find some of the other hot spots and report back.

While you are there you could also visit what is arguably the oldest restaurant in the world.

'Cool' is good on Saturday nights but a younger 20-something crowd (!). If it's 2am/3am and you are bored, head to Club Strong - it has Europe's largest dark room (I didn't go in, promise!), but it also has a cool bar and a fun dance area. If you are wasted (which most non-Spanish people are at 2am), it's a fun place to let loose. Entrance is something like 8 euros with 2 free drinks (:eek:). For me, that resulted in shirtless dancing on a podium....classy ;)

Also for crazy circuit / dance events, check WE Party, Matinee, or Supermartxe, all of which are insanely good. Depending on when you are going, there may be a party on. If not, just try the suggestions in Chueca above, get chatting with the locals and find out where to go! ^

Don't forget the churros and hot chocolate at Chocolateria San Gines. Perfect for the winter!

Some nightlife advice from my friend:
Lounges: Liquid and Studio 54 on Calle Barbieri
Discos: Longplay which is in Chueca Plaza, which is near Gran Via and its only gay on select nights, I think fridays maybe?
Velvet is also cool. Oh and Shanghai Club has great music, that's near santo domingo.

Anyone gonna be in Madrid next weekend? March 10-14 :)