Lateral

If you’re looking for a more upscale tapas experience in Madrid, Lateral might seem like a great option. With its elegant atmosphere and creative takes on classic dishes, it’s easy to get excited about trying this spot. Unfortunately, my experience was a bit of a letdown. The menu read like a dream, with dishes that promised to elevate traditional tapas to new heights. We ordered a variety of plates, including Crystal Bread with Tomato and Garlic, Potatoes with Bravas Sauce, Calamari with Aioli, Russian Salad, and Pork with Caramelized Onions. While the presentation was always on point, the flavors just didn’t quite live up.

For me, the food was okay, but not outstanding. Some dishes lacked flavor, and the pork was a bit chewy and under seasoned. I was also surprised by the Tomato dish, which is normally a favorite of mine. In this case, the tomato and garlic mixture was served on the side with toasted chips, which just didn’t work for me. The potatoes were another disappointment, as they could have been crispier. The addition of saffron on top, while visually appealing, detracted from the taste rather than adding to it. The one standout dish was the calamari, which was crispy and light, with a creamy aioli that was the perfect accompaniment.

Given the high prices and mixed quality of the food, I wouldn’t say Lateral is a must-visit spot for me. While it’s clear the restaurant is trying to do something different, the execution just didn’t quite work. If you’re looking for upscale tapas in Madrid, you might want to consider other options. Would I go back? Probably not.