# Tapas culture in Madrid

**Language:** Spanish  
**CEFR Level:** B1  

> Listen in as Sergio and Andrea talk about the unwritten rules and best spots for eating tapas in the capital in real, everyday Spanish. By the end of this course their conversation will feel easy to follow, and you'll be ready to join in.

**Setting:** Sergio is visiting Madrid for a music production workshop while Andrea is in town for an engineering seminar, prompting them to meet up during their free time to explore the city's food scene. Over several afternoons, they navigate the bustling taverns from La Latina to Sol, sharing local tips and debating the best spots for el tardeo.

## Lessons

### 1. Switching to informal address

Sergio asks Andrea if he can stand next to her in a crowded Madrid tavern, and they agree to switch to the informal 'tú'.

### 2. Introducing yourself and your interests

Andrea and Sergio introduce themselves, share where they are from, and talk about what brought them to Madrid.

### 3. Identifying authentic local places

Andrea warns Sergio about touristy restaurants in Madrid, and they discuss how to find authentic local taverns.

### 4. Discussing local food customs

Andrea and Sergio talk about the tradition of eating calamari sandwiches and discuss Madrid's standing-up dining culture.

### 5. Asking for restaurant recommendations

Andrea and Sergio discuss the typical prices of tapas and how to spot tourist traps, leading Sergio to ask Andrea for her top dining recommendations.

### 6. Suggesting places to visit

Andrea suggests visiting Cava Baja street for Sunday afternoon drinks, sharing how her engineering background led her to plan a highly organized route.

### 7. Comparing ways to choose places

Andrea and Sergio debate the merits of planning with online reviews versus improvising based on the atmosphere and crowd of a local bar.

### 8. Asking about locations and distances

Sergio and Andrea compare a bar's vibe to a music session before Andrea recommends a classic spot famous for fried cod, prompting Sergio to ask about its location.

### 9. Planning a casual outing

Andrea suggests visiting a nearby spot right away, and Sergio enthusiastically agrees to continue their afternoon outing before the dinner rush.

### 10. Setting limits for a night out

Sergio and Andrea discuss their busy schedules for the next day and agree to keep their evening plans relaxed and responsible.

### 11. Expressing appreciation for someone's help

Sergio thanks Andrea for guiding him through the city, leading them to compare their different approaches to planning and organization.

### 12. Negotiating who pays the bill

Andrea and Sergio decide to head to their next stop and have a friendly debate over who will pay for the current round of drinks.

### 13. Asking for the bill

Andrea accepts Sergio's fair proposal, prompting Sergio to call the waiter over for the bill as they admire the bar's fast service.

### 14. Guiding someone to a destination

Hungry and ready for their next stop, Sergio asks Andrea to lead the way to the nearby spot she recommended for cod.