La Malontina checks all the boxes for a casual, easy meal. Dishes are simple, but packed with flavor, like the beef brisket and traditional gilda. The restaurant has just a few tables, but that makes it feel even cozier and charming, and the owner often comes out and chats with customers, many of whom have lived in the Cortes neighborhood for decades. Lots of Madrid restaurants are jumping on trendy dishes such as leeks, but La Malontina has the best one we’ve had yet: leek confit in romesco sauce, with a texture that’s just right. This place also accepts reservations from 12:30pm until 10pm, making it easy for anyone not used to later Spanish meal times to eat whenever they want.