Some of the best restaurants in the world follow one rule: have few items, but do them well. La casa del abuelo (Grandfather's house) follows this rule to perfection.
Since opening 106 years ago, this tiny restaurant in the heart of Madrid, Spain has specialized in gambas al ajillo (shrimp in garlic sauce); small delectable shrimp bathed in hot butter and an obscene amount of garlic and simmered to perfection then topped with just the right amount of sea salt. Combined with a crusty piece of fresh baked bread and a small glass of red sherry and you have the perfect pinxo (or tapa) a little snack that satisfies the palette while leaving room for more in the belly.
El abuelo was my first exposure to gambas al ajillo and it continues to be the best place on the peninsula to enjoy this typical dish. The secret according to the chef is the quality of the shrimp; they are taken off the fishing boat each day early in the morning and then flown directly from the coast to Madrid and then arrive at the restaurant literally hours later. The abuelo started before frozen shrimp was even a possibility and the restaurant has never tolerated frozen seafood inside its doors.
The abuelo has expanded into multiple locations over the past decade so hopefully they will continue this tradition of freshness and simplicity that has been the root of their success.