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Centro › Malasaña › Aquí Santoña - Tienda y Tapas
Aquí Santoña - Tienda y TapasB+Worth Trying
C. de San Bernardo, 28, local, Centro, 28015 Madrid, Spain
· Deli, Bar, Tapas bar
· 4.6/5 Google (773 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Tiny seafood-forward tapas bar and deli with standout Cantabrian anchovies and careful service; prices are fair-to-premium for product quality, but seating is tight and service can strain at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Aquí Santoña delivers exceptional ingredient-driven seafood with knowledgeable staff guidance that elevates the tapas experience, earning solid recognition among local enthusiasts. Tight seating and uncomfortable chairs limit the setting's appeal, while occasional consistency variation prevents a higher grade. This is a worthwhile stop for serious seafood lovers seeking premium Cantabrian anchovies and conservas in an authentic, unpretentious environment.
Restaurant Summary
A compact deli-tapas bar where the counter gleams with tins and jars, Aquí Santoña feels warm and intimate rather than rowdy. Service often comes with friendly guidance—think someone walking you through the blackboard like a trusted fishmonger. One diner put it simply: best anchovies of the trip. Expect a relaxed pause on your tapas crawl more than a full sit-down feast. The cooking leans product-first: pristine Cantabrian anchovies, moist mojama, marinated sardines with ajo blanco, and the occasional red prawn carpaccio. It is elevated traditional, not fusion—small plates that showcase ingredient quality over cheffy flourishes. Wine choices are concise but purposeful; pairings and staff suggestions do a lot of the work here. For families, the menu suits adventurous seafood eaters more than picky palates. Kids who enjoy simple flavors might like tomato with tuna belly or a mild cheese bite, and the chocolate-covered figs are a sweet finish. There is no kids menu, portions are small, and seating is tight, so plan for a short, casual stop.
At a Glance
- Benchmark Cantabrian anchovies and cured seafood
- Friendly, knowledgeable guidance on pairings
- Great stop on a Centro tapas stroll
- Small, tight seating and some uncomfortable chairs
- Pricey compared with basic tapas bars due to premium product
What Sets It Apart
- Cantabrian anchovy focus
- Conservas and cured seafood shop-in-bar
- Knowledgeable guidance on pairings
What People Love
- Clean, delicate anchovy flavor
- Product-first plates with minimal fuss
- Personable staff guiding choices
- Chocolate-covered figs to finish
- Calm, intimate shop vibe
Points of Concern
- Service strain when only one server is working; occasional forgotten items
- A few reports of brusque treatment from a waiter
- Pricing feels high to some, especially canned beers and premium seafood
- Noise management lapses on rare rowdy tables
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€32-46 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with Gilda and a glass of Albariño, then share anchovies "00" and marinated sardines
- Add mojama or smoked sturgeon for contrast; finish with chocolate figs
Perfect For
- Seafood and conservas lovers
- Tapas crawl near Malasaña/Gran Via
- Casual date with wine and small plates
- Solo snack with a glass of Verdejo
Location Insights
Area: Central Madrid near Universidad/Malasaña edge; mixed local and visitor traffic, casual day-to-night energy.
Safety: Generally safe, busy streets with steady foot traffic and good lighting.
Nearby: Shops, cafes, bars and cultural sights nearby; easy to include on a tapas crawl.
UniversidadUniversidad is a lively neighborhood characterized by its bohemian atmosphere, trendy bars, and diverse eateries. It attracts a youthful crowd and creatives, offering a dynamic dining scene with both traditional Spanish tapas bars and modern fusion restaurants.
MalasañaMalasaña is known for its alternative vibe, street art, and vibrant nightlife. It is a hotspot for innovative dining and casual tapas spots, popular among those seeking a more eclectic and youthful atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–23:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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