“From an Italian family, dedicated to Italian families.”
Brought to you by Andrea Pirastu, Marcello Caschili and Giulia Costa
Shopping on Gran Via can be exhausting. You need a break. And food. So why not venture out to Malasaña where you can find a million (we’re not kidding) restaurants ready to greet you with open arms and plates full of multicultural food.
But there are two hidden gems in Malasaña that should make the list of any die hard foodie.
Aió and La Bruta
We paired them together as they are owned by the same awesome Italian family who only has one vision: to create food with passion and love.
The main theme that’s connecting the two together is Sardinia – the owners’ home. If you’re looking for Sardinian, Italian or Spanish food, these are the perfect restaurants for you!
We’ve managed to get an exclusive interview with the family and found out the story behind Aió and La Bruta.
What they say about Aió:
The first to open was Aió – originally based in Sardinia before moving to Madrid and settling in the popular district of Malasaña. The restaurant quickly turned into a popular social destination for those who prefer to enjoy Sardinian food in Madrid and mingle with the crowd.
It features free buffet (you only pay for drinks!), Italian aperitivo (every Thursday!) and delicious dishes you absolutely need to try.
Dishes you should try in Aio: Pizzetta, Malloreddus and Fregola.
Drinks to go with: Ichnusa beer and Aperol spritz
Aió address:
Calle de la Corredera baja de San Pablo 25
Madrid
Telephone: 910 09 64 69
Their thoughts on La Bruta:
La Bruta is special. Modern, featuring ‘a tribute to Spanish cuisine with a twist’. This is the perfect choice for those who are looking for high quality food, catered to your taste buds and paying attention to every little detail.
Dishes you should try in La Bruta: albondigas de cordero a la menta, filete de lubina con crema de puerro y crochiente rucola and gnocchi di patata con rabo de toro.
La Bruta address:
Calle del Pez, 11
Madrid
Telephone: 911 63 37 19
The owners even have a suggestion for those who are looking to open a restaurant.
“Always keep a positive attitude and a flexible mind.”