Spain’s famously late mealtimes are a result of the country being in the geographically incorrect time zone. While originally in the same time zone as Portugal and the UK, Spain jumped ahead by an hour during the Second World War.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But here’s the thing\u2014though the time on the clock changed, Spaniards kept eating at the same time of day. Most people who would have eaten lunch at 1 p.m. in the old time zone continued doing so, but now the clocks read 2 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ve kept this habit for the past 80 years or so, and most authentic Spanish restaurants open “late” by foreign standards as a result. But no worries\u2014there are still a few great spots that open their doors a few hours before the rest, so you can eat early in Madrid without resorting to a tourist trap. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

1. Casa Mingo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy the calm ambiance and rich flavors of Asturias in northern Spain\u2014right here in Madrid! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open since 1888,\u00a0Casa Mingo<\/a> is an authentic Asturian cider house\u2014the only one in Madrid that produces its own cider in its own facilities. In addition to crisp, refreshing cider, they also serve simple, delicious homemade food, with their roast chicken being the house specialty. The kitchen at this local favorite is open nonstop from noon until 11 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grab a table in the spacious dining room or out on the gorgeous terrace and you’ll quickly see why this is one of the best places to eat early in Madrid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n