LA CASA DEL ABUELO We returned to one of our favourite bars on our recent trip to Madrid. A traditional Madrileño shrimp tapas bar founded in 1906 in the heart of the city. Nobody would think that over 100 years have passed since then, significantly since nothing has changed. It has passed through four generations of the same family, who have kept its traditions and authenticity. They serve all types of gambas and Langostinos. Gambas ajillo Garlic and chilli prawns Gambas a

RESTAURANTE BALANDRO Our friend, Bill Benham, visited this excellent Restaurant in Cádiz, offering a varied and high-quality menu featuring local fish. They serve designer tapas in a modern, hip, and vibrant place. There is a Restaurant area that requires reservations, as well as a bar area featuring high stools. It does get extremely popular, so get there early (8 pm) if you want a seat at the bar. Tataki de atún Ensalada de langostinos and mango Albondegas de merluza Gambas

Discovering Authentic Ibicencan Cuisine CAFETERÍA CA'N JORDI - LAS PUERTAS DE CIELO If you plan to visit, you'll need a car or a bicycle. From Sant Antoni de Portmany (San Antonio), drive towards Santa Agnés de Corona. At the T-junction near Cafeteria Ca'n Cosmi, famous for its tortilla (Spanish omelette), turn left. Once you leave the village, there are no signs, but the drive is straightforward. The views of the almond blossoms in February are breathtaking! Continue for abo

THE FISH SHACK @ TALAMANCA Also known as Chiringuito Sa Punta, a tiny shack on the rocks perched delicately at the sea's edge at the very end of Talamanca beach, this is hard to find, as there are no signposts or a roof. This is one spot you don't often read about, making it all the more special. Head for the restaurant Sa Punta in Talamanca, and when you reach it, keep going past the rocks. Soon, you will see the tangle of umbrella canopies, wooden tables and plastic chairs.

RESTAURANTE EL CALEÑO We returned to the still-very-traditional village of Pedregalejo, just outside of Malaga. This village has kept its local character and charm and has not been ruined by tourism. The beaches here are divided into small U-shaped coves, perfect for families with young children. This old fishing village is now known for its excellent fish restaurants, which line the promenade next to the beach. In the warm summer months, sometimes during pleasant days in win

CAFÉ BAR FLOTANTE The mythical Bar Flotante (floating bar) is set on the shore of the stunning Platja de Talamanca, just outside Eivissa (Ibiza Town).  Along with its neighbour, Hostal Talamanca, it has been here since the 1960s. Serving locals and tourists alike. You will find nothing fancy here, nor do you need it. The service isn't great or fast, but if you're on vacation and not on the run, you can enjoy the ambience for as long as you like. The food is basic but decent,

RESTAURANTE EL CALEÑO To find a nice lunch in the sun, with a view of the sea, head east, along the coastal road from Málaga for about 6 km, and you will arrive in Pedregalejo. It's a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride from Málaga centre. Looking back toward Málaga City Just before you get to Pedregalejo, you will see Baños del Carmen, a summer seaside resort that was opened for the rich and famous in 1918. The still beautiful building and its ruined gardens are now a restau

CHIRINGUITO EL LIRIO (PERMANELY CLOSED, NOW A BURGER BAR!) There are many great things about Málaga. The big blue skies, 300 days of sunshine a year, the beaches and the food. Málaga has some of Andalucía's best Chiringuitos. These are beachfront bars and restaurants that specialise in tapas, salads and above all else, lots of fish. You will find skewers of freshly caught and salted Mediterranean sardines, dorada (gilthead bream), lubina (sea bass), salmonete (red mullet) a