“I can’t believe it’s not meat!” -My Carnivorous Friend.

#FridayFinds PSA: Calling all vegetarians, vegans, veggie lovers, or just anyone who likes awesome food at an awesome price…

I found you a hidden veggielicious gem.

Now, let’s first talk about the veggie scene in Madrid. To start…about 5 years ago, there was none. Just recently, veggie spots are popping up one by one in trendy central areas of Madrid, like Lavapies and Malasaña. However, when on my search for a veggie spot worth a #FridayFinds, I found two problems: One, many of these places (especially in hip Malasaña) were far overpriced. Two, they didn’t really convey the essence of true “tapas.” Now, that’s all well and good! However, I was thinking in the veggie-lovin’ shoes of someone visiting Madrid. Just because you might be a veggie, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to experience real Spanish-styled tapas. I’m not only talkin’ food, but the vibe of your typical “fast-paced cañas and tapas bar.” Well, no fear my veggielicious lusters! I’ve done some diggin’, put on my walkin’ boots, and went to the outskirts of central Madrid. Now, if you’ve heard of this spot on another blog, I owe ya’ a broccoli stalk.

It’s called El Triángulo de las Verduras at metro Puerta del Ángel.

It’s a tiny, hole-in-the-wall gem that doesn’t quite fit in with its neighborhood surroundings. Why? ‘Cause it’s so alternatively-hipster cool, that it’s almost too cool for it’s ‘hood. It’s a place you think would be in hippied-out Lavapies, except the food is half the price, and other blogs haven’t written about it yet. Everything is homemade and whipped up on the spot, made from the best local seasonal ingredients around. However, the catch? They don’t advertise “local seasonal” products on their storefront window like 99% of hip Veggie spots. Why? ‘Cause they don’t have to! The local people who go, know.

The Vibe

Hipster grunge atmosphere, meets alternative yet authentic Spanish (with a hefty handful of dreadlocks and balloon pants  thrown in the mix). I know I know…how could it be an authentic Spanish crowd if there’s no meat? That’s the catch! It manages to not only pull Spanish vegetarians (yes, many exist!), but just about anyone who likes good food. Yea, that’s right…even you meat-inhaling carnivores would love it! The place is teeny-tiny, with two full tables for sitting and a bar with about eight stools. It’s always packed, filled with locals and foodies alike. And dogs! Yep, bring fluffy, ’cause its pet friendly! The service is “typical Spanish,” so if you want your order, be ready to bark it at them (no, not like a dog! Even if it might be pet friendly ;P).

Imagine: your classic cerveza-drinkin’ middle-aged Spanish man sitting at the bar alone with a “tapita” of veggies (a typical sight here in Spain, with exception of the veggie part), next to a table packed full of “hipsters” with quirky shaped glasses and blue hair. The music is pumpin’ out a mix of reggae and classic Spanish flamenco. The walls are painted bright electric blue, and there’s funky local art covering every inch of the wall. So, so cool.

The Food

When I say everything is good, everything is really good. The food is a fusion of classic Spanish (i.e. croquetas, albondigas) mixed with Middle Eastern (hummus and falafels), Italian (lasagna), Mexican (quesadillas- REPPIN’!), Serbian (ajvar)… yea, they get pretty creative. Although the flavors are international, the style that the food is served is super traditional Spanish “tapas” styled. Plates come out as they’re ready, in the classic round clay tapas dishes. Oh, and the portions are super-duper generous, ideal to share! Check ’em out:

It all began with complimentary (yea, FREEEEE) zucchini soup.

Followed by tastylicious ajvar, a dip made with red bell pepper, eggplant, garlic and loveee. (4.90€)

Then THIS came out. Meatless lasagna. Seriously, we couldn’t believe there was no meat. (8€ included with appetizer and desert)

Note: this is on the special “menu del dia!” call in advance to ask if they’ll have it.

And the “burger”. Cut in half for a tasting, it’s perfection. The fluffy bun, fresh veggies, and patty blended with various veggies, marinated soy and spices. Burger with meat ain’t got shiiii* on this burger beaut. (3.90€)

Finally, the alondigas! I almost didn’t believe there was no meat. And this paprika sauce. I’d take a bath in it if I could. (5.50€)

And then, I had to open my pants button. All for a mere 9 EUROS PER PERSON. Drinks included.

So, my #FridayFinds challenge to you? If you’re a vegetarian, GO. And if you’re a meat lover, REALLY GO. You won’t believe your eyes, or your taste buds. And if the thought crosses your mind to become a veggie? Don’t say I didn’t warn you…

Find it

El Triángulo de las Verduras

Calle de Antillón, 1, 28011 Madrid   (Metro Puerta del Ángel, grey line. OR Bus 31, 39, or 65 from Sol. NOTE: It’s not in the center, but it’s walkable if you choose!)

Call for a res (or the lasagna): +34 648 79 77 68

Are you a vegetarian in Madrid? In search for some good veggies? What other vegetarian spots have you found around the city? Do you find it challenging to be a vegetarian in Spain? Let’s veggie-vent!