Little dishes, big tastes, best enjoyed with wine, what’s not to love? When Nicole and I decided the best way for us to get to Morocco was through Madrid, I couldn’t wait! First we made a little stop at La Casa del Abuelo, named for the sweet wine from Alicante and known for their shrimp. Then we went for more variety at Casa Alhambra, which serves larger plates. Now that I’ve gotten a little taste, I might need a real trip to Spain next year!

Abuelo wine and gambas ai ajillo

Chorizo sandwiches at Casa Alhambra after we ordered our wine

Jamon Iberico, Tortilla España

Albondigas (meatballs)

Our feast also included fried calamari rings. We definitely over-ordered, but it was fun to have a variety. Can’t wait to go back!

On our way to Morocco, my friend Nicole and I made a little stop in Madrid. It was the perfect kick-off to our travels. My flight had an early morning layover in Lisbon, Portugal. Once we arrived in Madrid (on separate flights), we headed for the center of the city, where we quickly discovered all the streets were shut down for some sort of demonstration. Once we arrived at our hotel, we grabbed a much-needed cat nap before venturing out to explore the city. It’s been 12 years since I last visited Madrid!

Sunrise over Lisbon as I boarded the plane to Madrid.

We stayed at the lovely Palace Hotel in the heart of Madrid.

(Sadly we did not have a guidebook on us, so I have no idea about most of what I photographed.)

What better place for a snack than the Museo de Jamon, or Museum of Ham!

A whole variety of porky, salty goodness!

I ordered “dos bocadillos de jamon, una Coca Cola, y una agua.” The bread was fresh and warm, and the jamon was salty and delicious. Our first meal in Madrid!

Running on 30 hours without sleep… the sandwiches hit the spot and gave us a second wind.

Aside from food, the Reina Sofia was the only cultural thing we could fit into our half day in Madrid.

We couldn’t figure out what the demonstration was, but here was a sign in the trash.

Next up… tapas!