Tucked away in the vibrant Centro district of Madrid on Calle de Manuela Malasaña, Playing Solo is a captivating restaurant that offers an extraordinary dining experience tailored for food enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This exclusive venue seats no more than 15 guests, creating an intimate and personalized atmosphere perfect for those who appreciate culinary artistry paired with warm hospitality.
Chef Luis Caballero orchestrates a theatrical and synchronized multi-course tasting menu inspired by traditional Japanese kaiseki, with creative infusions of French and Nordic cuisines. Each dish is a visual masterpiece presented with engaging narratives that build anticipation, inviting diners on a culinary journey that delights the senses. The menu showcases locally sourced Spanish ingredients expertly woven into this fusion format, offering freshness and authenticity with every plate.
Exclusivity and engagement are at the heart of Playing Solo's appeal. The minimalist counter seating allows guests to watch the chef prepare each course, fostering a connection between kitchen and table that transforms dining into an interactive performance.
Visitors consistently praise the intimate setting and personalized service that make every visit feel special. The innovative blend of Japanese culinary techniques with Madrid’s rich local produce creates a unique fusion that excites the palate. Wine enthusiasts also appreciate the thoughtfully curated pairings that complement each course perfectly, elevating the tasting menu into a complete sensory experience.
- Intimate seating with only up to 15 guests ensures a cozy experience.
- Innovative fusion menu combining Japanese, French, Nordic, and local Spanish ingredients.
- Personalized chef interaction with Chef Luis Caballero who narrates each course and creates a memorable dining performance.
- Thoughtful wine pairings curated to enhance each dish’s flavors and textures.
- What is the seating capacity at Playing Solo? The restaurant accommodates up to 15 guests, ensuring an intimate dining experience.
- Is there a vegetarian option available? Yes, a vegetarian tasting menu is available upon prior request.
- What is the price of the tasting menu? The tasting menu is priced at €115.00.
- Do I need to make a reservation in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended due to limited seating.
- Are children allowed at the restaurant? Children under 12 are not permitted; the restaurant recommends guests be at least 12 years old.
The vibe at Playing Solo is highly positive among its discerning patrons. Guests rave about the attention to detail in both the food and service, appreciating the fusion of Japanese precision with the vibrant flavors of Madrid's local ingredients. This fusion, along with the intimate setting and direct interaction with Chef Luis Caballero, crafts an experience that many call "unparalleled" and "memorable." Whether you're a foodie, a traveler seeking unique dining, or a lover of innovative cuisine, Playing Solo offers a standout culinary adventure in the heart of Spain's capital.
Nestled in the vibrant Centro district of Madrid, Playing Solo stands out as an exceptional dining destination that masterfully blends the artful precision of Japanese Kaiseki with the rich, contemporary flavors of Madrid. This unique culinary concept offers an intimate, theatrical experience where guests savor a thoughtfully curated tasting menu influenced by Japanese, French, and Nordic cuisines, all while enjoying personalized interaction with Chef Luis Caballero.
The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Playing Solo. The restaurant earned the prestigious Public Choice Award at TheFork Awards, highlighting its growing popularity among discerning diners. In the same year, the establishment gained recognition from the esteemed MICHELIN Guide, cementing its reputation as a must-visit culinary hotspot in Madrid.
Playing Solo offers a rare and exclusive setting with seating for only eight guests at a minimalist counter that encourages a synchronized dining experience. Chef Luis Caballero personally introduces each course, weaving a narrative that enhances anticipation and engagement. The menu is a harmonious fusion—rooted in the elegance of Japanese Kaiseki, enriched with French technique, and enlivened by Nordic minimalism, while proudly featuring local Spanish ingredients at their freshest.
- Intimate and exclusive – With seating for only eight, the restaurant offers a personal and immersive culinary journey, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking exclusivity.
- Masterful fusion cuisine – The menu creatively combines Japanese Kaiseki’s elegance with fresh, modern Madrid flavors, enhanced by French and Nordic influences.
- Engaging storytelling – Chef Luis Caballero personally presents each dish, creating anticipation and a narrative that enhances the overall experience.
- Thoughtful wine pairings – The carefully curated selection of wines complements the innovative menu, heightening the symphony of flavors.
Playing Solo is more than a restaurant; it is a celebration of culinary artistry and cultural fusion that offers food lovers in Madrid a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Nestled in the heart of Madrid's vibrant Centro district, Playing Solo offers a truly intimate and immersive gastronomic journey that food lovers and connoisseurs will appreciate. This exclusive restaurant features a minimalist counter seating arrangement for no more than 15 guests, amplifying a sense of privacy and connection with the culinary artistry unfolding before you.
At the core of Playing Solo's appeal is its unique fusion of Japanese Kaiseki tradition with modern Madrid flavors, skillfully crafted by Chef Luis Caballero. Guests enjoy seasonal tasting menus that highlight local Spanish ingredients while embracing the meticulousness and elegance of Japanese multi-course dining. What sets this venue apart is the chef's table seating, which allows diners to interact directly with Chef Caballero as he personally prepares and introduces each course, turning the meal into a theatrical culinary performance.
- Intimate dining experience with personalized service
- Unique fusion of Japanese Kaiseki and modern Madrid flavors
- Seasonal tasting menus with curated wine pairings
- Chef's table seating offering direct interaction with the chef
- Highly rated by guests for ambiance, food quality, and service
While Playing Solo delivers a remarkable culinary experience, some practical considerations might affect your visit. The limited seating capacity of up to 15 guests ensures exclusivity but means advance reservations are essential due to high demand. The intimate bar-style seating is ideal for small parties or couples but may not accommodate larger groups comfortably. Additionally, the restaurant maintains a policy excluding children under 12 and does not allow pets, aside from service animals, which might limit options for families or pet owners.
For discerning diners seeking an exclusive and innovative tasting menu experience in Madrid, Playing Solo stands out as a hidden gem that masterfully blends Japanese culinary precision with Spanish local flavors. The personalized service, seasonal menus, and direct chef interaction create a memorable night of culinary storytelling. However, prospective visitors should plan ahead and be prepared for the focused, intimate atmosphere that may not suit every occasion or group size. Overall, Playing Solo is a captivating destination for those eager to explore creative fusion cuisine in an intimate setting.
