Discovering foodie favs in Madrid's historical center

Spring 2025 we returned to Central Madrid on Grande Via, a location just perfect for exploring nearby historical sites, and the local culinary scene. Our Madrid stopover allowed us to take advantage of earlier culinary discoveries, plus add some new ones. You always pay a little extra for a good location however, you are also in walking distance to major historical sites. Fortunately, it is because of earlier gastronomic adventures that I discovered some gastronomic delights in Central Madrid. Moreover, it is fun to discover foodie favs like La Finca de Susana (an Andilana Restaurant), tapas bars, historic taverns, wine and more.

La Finca de Susana, Madrid April 2025 © Spaswinefood

La Finca de Susana

It was years ago when we (John and I) did Spawinefood’s stopovers in Madrid and discovered some of Madrid's culinary hotspots. Returning April 2025, we were delighted to revisit one of our earlier Andilana Restaurant discoveries, like La Finca de Susana, a small restaurant with great food and wine at fair prices. 

Lunch, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Menu, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

We made a 3:30 pm reservation for late lunch. In Madrid often lunch ends at 4 pm. We often like arriving just before 4 pm.

La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Late lunch in the springtime is great because most restaurants will not be crowded.

La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Obviously in Madrid we had a good list of Spanish wine to select from.

Wine List © Spaswinefood

From the wine list we chose a:

 2020 Marqués de Riscal Reserva, DOC Roja

Marqués de Riscal Reserva, DOC Roja 2020 © Spaswinefood

Marqués de Riscal Reserva, DOC Roja 2020  © Spaswinefood

We were not disappointed Marqués de Riscal Reserva 2020 was a good choice.

Appetizer & Wine, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Enjoying a good Spanish wine before our plates arrived was a great beginning.

Relaxing at La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

They offer the options: the menu of the day, or ordering from the menu. In the past we have often selected menu of the day however, for this visit we chose to order from the menu. For our main courses we choose the following:

Delightful Meat Plate, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Risotto, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

Dining in Spain is a relaxing experience.

Wine Time © Spaswinefood

Of course on the way out, one last look at the menu.

Menu on Display, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

I love late afternoon lunches in Madrid -- arriving before 4 pm in most cases is just perfect.

Until Next Time, La Finca de Susana © Spaswinefood

When we left La Finca de Susana it was time to head back to our hotel. Again, nothing like a good walk after lunch. I always love to explore the nearby historical sites, and the culinary scene of Madrid's historical center. Madrid has many squares, or plazas that have evolved over time. As always our first stop, after checking into our Gran Via accommodations is Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid's most historic squares. 

Gran Via, Madrid May 2024 © Spaswinefood

I consider myself to be very fortunate to have visited Madrid both Spring 2024 (April) and 2025 (May), for three day stopovers. I prefer stopovers, and not to just pass through on a flight to somewhere else in Spain, or nearby Portugal. Both of these visits were just perfect to get reacquainted with Madrid. 

Enjoying theViews, Historical Taverns, Tapas Bars and More

Exploring Central Madrid, May 2024 © Spaswinefood

Given the high temperatures in Madrid at the end of May 2024, it was so welcoming to return to our apartment on Gran Via after exploring.

Roof Top Views from Gran Via Apartment, Spring 2024 © Spaswinefood

More Roof Top Views, Gran Via, Spring 2024  © Spaswinefood

Watching sunsets and sunrise over Central Madrid from our apartment on Gran Via was a special treat.

Sunrise over Gran Via, Spring 2024 © Spaswinefood

Tapas and More in Madrid's Historical Center

Much has been written on Madrid's tapas bars and historic taverns. Others have focused on traditional Spanish dishes, or the rich diversity of cuisine that is offered at many Madrid restaurants. For sure, no trip to Madrid is complete without visiting its historic taverns and tapas bars. I have heard many stories from fellow travelers about Madrid's tapas bars. Amongst my earlier gastronomic adventures in Madrid I discovered delightful restaurants,  and of course a few tapas bars. Fortunately a hotel on Grande Via in Central Madrid, which is the perfect location for exploring nearby historical sites, and checking out the local culinary scene. Of course, Madrid's tapas bars and historic taverns, is a must. 

Time for Vinos y Tapas, Madrid April 2025 © Spaswinefood

Soon after we arrived in Madrid April 2025 we booked a Tapas Tour. For more on that tour see:

See also earlier Historic Taverns and Tapas Tour (May 2024):

Tortilla Española and Cerveza, La Buha, May 2024 © Spaswinefood

Besides exploring on my own, I have discovered that taking a tour of Madrid's tapas bars and historic taverns, is a must. Our May 2024 tour of Madrid's tapas bars and historic taverns was definitely a highlight of that visit.

Vermú at La Concha: Vinos y Tapas, May 2024 © Spaswinefood

La Buha, May 2024 © Spaswinefood

La Concha: Vinos y Tapas, May 2024 © Spaswinefood

Without a doubt checking out Madrid's historical sites while doing culinary explorations are a perfect mix. Central Madrid is packed with historical sites, many good restaurants (such as Andilana Restaurants), and there is also plenty of Spanish wine available to sample. Madrid is the perfect place for combing historical and culinary adventures. I invite you to join me in my wine travel adventures in Spain and elsewhere at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood on Bluesky  and Facebook. 

CHEERS! 

Sharon
April 2025
Madrid, Spain

© Spaswinefood

Central Madrid, Spain May 2024 © Spaswinefood

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Our Northern Adventure: Indianola's La Vida Loca Winery, just off I-80

What our overland travels has taught me is to be open to surprises. Hence finding wineries in the most interesting places has always impressed me. La Vida Loca Winery, Indianola was a pleasant surprise for us, during springtime I-80 travels east to Maine to begin our US 2 adventure. Indianola, city in and county seat of Warren County, is located 19 miles (31 km) south of downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Given Iowa is home to over 100 wineries we were excited to visit one along our route. We chose La Vida Loca Winery because it was a Harvest Host site. Before starting our cross country travels we had signed up for Harvest Host membership to try it out during our overland adventure.

La Vida Loca Winery, Indianola © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca Winery, Indianola, Iowa

Our May visit to La Vida Loca Winery was perfect timing given the grape vines were already budding.

Springtime Grapes, La Vida Loca Winery, Indianola © Spaswinefood

Indianola was the first winery stop during our travels to Maine. Our goal was to reach Maine where we would begin our adventure along the Great Northern, known as U.S. Route 2 or U.S. Highway 2 (US 2). The original plan was to leave the west coast journey east on U.S. Highway 2 (US 2), criss-crossing the US and Canada border as needed; and return across Canada, from the east to west coast, and then head back into the western US. Back in 2021 when we realized that this plan was not possible, we quickly crossed the U.S. on I-80 to Maine on the east coast, and then return as much as possible on US 2. We stayed on the US side of Highway 2 because of the Canadian travel restrictions during 2021.

Just in case you are wondering US 2 is an east–west United States Numbered Highway, covering 2,571 miles (4,138 km) across northern continental United States. US 2 consists of two segments on the US side of the Canadian border. 

Off to Indianola Winery © Spaswinefood

Iowa Wine Trail, #10 to La Vida Loca Winery, Indianola © Spaswinefood

After exiting I-80 it was not long before we arrived at the winery.

Vineyard, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Springtime, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca Winery was a very welcoming spot for us.

Patio, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Spring in in the Air, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

After a number days driving along I-80, at a somewhat fast pace, we were happy to arrive at a winery.

Welcome to La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Upon arrival off to the tasting room we went!

La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

We were immediately welcomed upon arrival at the winery. We were also given a list of wines to choose from.

Wine List, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Indeed, we were excited to taste our first Iowa wines. Here are some of the wines we tried:

La Vida Loca, Viva La Vignoles 

La Vida Loca Winery, Viva La Vignoles © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca White 

La Vida Loca Winery, La Vida Loca White © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca, American Cynthiana 

La Vida Loca Winery, American Cynthiana © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca, Sawmill Hallow 

La Vida Loca Winery, Sawmill Hallow © Spaswinefood

La Vida Loca, Sawmill Hallow (backlabel)

La Vida Loca Winery, Sawmill Hallow (backlabel) © Spaswinefood

Our first introduction to Iowa wine was a delightful experience. Great conversations about winemaking were had.

More on La Vida Loca Winery

Wine Time, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

After the wine tasting we selected a few to buy. We bought some wine mugs. To this day when we are camping we use these mugs. It was a great decision!

That springtime evening in May I enjoyed exploring the vines

May Vines, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Besides the grape vines there we other berries growing at the winery. Yes, during the tasting we tried a few wines made with different berries.

Berries on Vine, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

At days end we explore a little more before relaxing for the evening.

Late Evening, La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

Of course it was a perfect place to camp. We were so happy to have discovered this harvest host site.

Camping at La Vida Loca Winery © Spaswinefood

We left the next morning with great memories. In fact, years later, as I write this post I have fond memories of our visit to La Vida Loca Winery.

Leaving Indianola, Iowa © Spaswinefood

Next morning we headed back out to I-80 and continued onwards east. In research for this post I discovered this:

After 21 years of doing the winery thing, we have decided to RETIRE. As of August 31, 2023, La Vida Loca Winery will close its doors. This is bittersweet as we have nurtured this business from its infancy and have grown with it. We have met many people and many of you have become long-time friends. But "all good things must come to an end". We will finish out the dinners and events planned thru August.

I am glad we visited the winery back in 2021, and wish them the very best in retirement.

Off to the Great Northern Route

From Indianola's La Vida Loca Winery we continued our journey along I-80. We we anxious to begin our Great Northern Road Trip on US 2. It was an overland adventure that we will never forget. While some start in the state of Washington and follow the US 2 for the majority of the journey until ending in Maine, we drove the route in reverse. Along the way both I-80 east and US 2 west, we discovered beautiful cities, passed over mountains, passed by numerous lakes, and through many valleys. Our travels took us through the badlands, natural marvels, historical sites, and at times we traveled along the border with Canada. The best time of year for the Great Northern Road Trip (US 2) is spring, summer, or fall. I invite you to join me in my the sharing of these overland travels, and adventures elsewhere at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood on Bluesky  and Facebook. 

CHEERS!!

Sharon

Remembering our 2021 Adventures and I-80 and US 2

© Spaswinefood

Springtime Vines, La Vida Loca Winery, May 2021 © Spaswinefood

Wine Tasting, Tablas Creek Vineyard, Paso Robles, Spring 2025 © Spaswinefood

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Lodi Wine Country travels with friends is pura vida: Feeling the wine culture vibe at Michael David Winery

Lodi's Michael David Winery on that Saturday afternoon was buzzing with excitement. It lived up to the claim It is more than a winery it is a culture. This winery is a sixth-generation, family-owned winery. The Phillips family has been farming since the 1860’s, and cultivating wine grapes since the early 20th century. If you have had Lodi wine, chances are it was a Michael David wine. Michael David Winery is known for putting Lodi on the radar; hence it is a historically important. Michael David Winery is also where there is a strong wine culture vibe. 

Michael David Winery, Lodi Wine Country © Spaswinefood

Welcome to Michael David Winery

Michael David Winery was our second winery stop for the day. Our visit included a Wine Tasting and a Lunch. Given it was Saturday this winery was quite busy. 

Michael David Winery, Lodi Wine Country © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery offers visitors a number of food and wine options. We did a walk-in tasting while we waited for our reservation at the bistro. 

We were treated well by the staff and enjoyed the wines we tasted! Our wine tasting host was fabulous!

Thanks for Making the Wine Tasting Fabulous © Spaswinefood

Below is a glimpse at the wines we tasted:

Michael David Winery Tasting List © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Merlot , Lodi 2022 

Michael David Winery, Merlot , Lodi 2022 © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Michael David Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Misfits & Mavens, Lodi 2022 

Michael David Winery, Misfits & Mavens, Lodi 2022 © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Perhaps a little Misfits & Mavens © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Inkblot Petit Sirah, Lodi 2022

Michael David Winery, Inkblot Petit Sirah, Lodi 2022 © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Zinfandel, Lodi 20 

Michael David Winery, Zinfandel, Lodi 2022  © Spaswinefood

For those white wine fans - we began the tasting with a 2024 Chardonnay but also, you can explore Michael David Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé too.

Michael David Winery, Sauvignon Blanc, Lodi 2024 © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Rosé © Spaswinefood

The winery is well known for wines like the following:

• Freakshow: One of their most popular lines, the Freakshow wines are as bold and unique as their labels. Michael David's Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon, is known for its rich, full-bodied flavors, and its Freakshow Zinfandel, with its intense berry and spice notes, are fan favorites.

Michael David Winery, Freakshow © Spaswinefood

Michael David Winery, Freakshow Petite Petit © Spaswinefood

• Petite Petit: A blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot offers intense, dark fruit flavorsand  its smooth finish and deep, inky color, makes it a standout in their wine portfolio.
  

They also produce wines like, 6th Sense.

Michael David Winery, 6th Sense © Spaswinefood

Let's not forget wines like:

• Earthquake: Named after the 1906 earthquake that struck Lodi, its Earthquake series includes Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah. These wines are celebrated for their bold, powerful flavors, rich fruit, and high alcohol content.
  

• 7 Deadly Zins: A Lodi classic, 7 Deadly Zins is a signature Zinfandel blend, offering lush flavors of dark berries, spice, and a hint of oak, perfect for those who enjoy a robust, full-bodied red. The chances are most folks have definitely heard and /or tasted this wine, which is produced old vines grown in seven different vineyards.

Overall the winery is well known for producing bold, award-winning wines like Freakshow, Earthquake, and Misfits & Mavens. This Family-friendly, dog-friendly winery has deep farming roots and a rebellious spirit. They pour wines with personality and purpose. For sure, the wine culture vibe at Michael David Winery is strong!

After the wine tasting we were off to lunch at the bistro. We were seated near the pond. The bistro offers complete bottle service and access to a full bistro menu.  The winery also has an on-site café, bakery, and seasonal fruit stand. 

Time for Lunch, Michael David Winery © Spaswinefood

Relaxing at Michael David Winery © Spaswinefood

The winery's founders, brothers Michael and David Phillips, 5th generation grape growers, have raised their families in the vineyard, and now the 6th generation (Mike’s daughter Melissa) has joined the team. Their family's legacy and love of Lodi has driven them to focus on sustainability. Michael David Winery combines sustainable farming practices with innovative winemaking techniques, resulting in high-quality, memorable wines, which showcase the best of Lodi's terroir.

My weekend visit to Lodi Wine Country with friends was priceless!  Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA) is most famous for its Zinfandel; however, there are over one hundred grape varieties planted in the Lodi Appellation, so there is something for everyone. In case you are wondering, other wines, than Zinfandel, that you will find in Lodi include: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Petit Sirah, Albariño, Grenache, and more.  Lodi Appellation has seven Sub-Appellations ( Mokelumne River, Clement's Hills, Borden Ranch, Jahant, Sloughhouse, Alt Mesa, and Cosumnes River). Lodi,  the largest wine growing region in California (twice the size of Napa Valley!), is one of the west coast’s most underrated wine regions. Lodi, a source for many grapes added to the blends of Napa and Sonoma wines, is building a reputation as, a must-visit wine region. Given its seven sub-AVA’s, each with unique microclimates and soils, we would get to experience some of Lodi's uniqueness during our wine country adventure. YES, Lodi Wine Country travels with friends is pura vida!

Lodi Wine Country © Spaswinefood

We began our visit with an introduction some of Lodi’s wines at the Lodi Wine Visitor Center.

Lodi Wine Visitors Center © Spaswinefood

Lodi Wine Country travels with friends is pura vida! You will fall in love with Lodi’s hospitality, and discover wine gems, like Michael David Winery. While my wine country travels takes me to wine regions around the world, it was priceless to have this wine adventure with friends in Lodi. I invite you to join me in my travels in Lodi,  California, and elsewhere in the sharing of these adventures at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood  on  Bluesky  and Facebook. 

CHEERS!!

Sharon

Lodi, California

September 2025

Lodi Wine Country with Friends © Spaswinefood

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