Went because of personal recommendation to try the cocido madrileño; Madrid’s most famous dish. It was indeed a substantial and enjoyable stew with its own combination of meat sausage, chick peas spices so come hungry or share between two. Situated on a corner along Calle Bola its red exterior makes it very easy to spot. The place itself is very traditional & the cooking I would classify as excellent home style. The negatives; no credit cards, totally unacceptable in a tourist city and no Wi-Fi. Come on guys get into the 21st century. With bread & piles & 2 soft drinks 30 Euro.
When in Spain, eat what the locals eat and we sought this place out for one reason and it was wonderful. We had a waiter who spoke pretty good English and he was able to share the different ingredients and the cooking process. The meat in the dish (soup) was tender, tasty and unique. The vegetables were not overcooked which made the dish that much more enjoyable. If you want to eat like the locals, we'd highly recommend this spot.
“ Disappointed ”
sally p (21 reviews)
Expensive for what you get.Salad starter was awful and the speciality roast lamb was really not good.My advice don't bother going there.very over rated.
I went here as I was told this was "the" place to get conocido which is the local dish of Madrid. I ordered the soup and conocido. The waiter delivered a large jug which he poured into the bowl for the soup. He then shower me what was inside and said that was the conocido. The soup was hot and tasty. The conocido was full of meat (I had meat sweats by the end) and lots of chickpeas. It was all tasty and tender. They served lashings of cabbage with the conocido. There was so much that I didn't finish it! The waiters were friendly and attentive. The restaurant was full, had a relaxed and local vibe. I would recommend going to anyone who is visiting Madrid.
“ One of the best food in Madrid”
goldec (68 reviews)
Tanvald, Czech Republic
We ordered three foods (namely cocido, callos and lamb) for four of us and it was the right amount. All was really yummy and worth it. Of course a bottle of rioja red wine suits to this food excellent. Probably the best place to eat traditional Madrileño specialties. Friendly service, cozy little restaurant, payment cash only.
Bert S (4 reviews)
Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Tourist trap with poor food, poor service and high prices. La Bola survives on a history and tourist guide books. Go somewhere else. there are plenty good restaurants in Madrid..
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