One of the most stylish tapas bars/restaurants in Madrid, La Carpanta is always bursting with people who come here for the lively, friendly atmosphere, its selection of over 50 wines, the fabulous food and a chance to gawp at the rather stunning-looking staff.

La Carpanta is run by a family of Madrileño actors who have tastefully furnished it with quirky wooden furniture and flowery window boxes. Apart from that, it’s just bare brick walls and wooden floors. If you want to secure one of the tables in the back rooms at La Carpanta, add your name to the waiting list and join the throngs in the front bar. Thursday to Saturday you might have to wait up to an hour, but it’s worth it (especially for the meatballs).