I am currently in Madrid, exploring StreetXO (David Munoz’s more casual place to his DiverXO[though DiverXO is also casual with floating pigs]. I usually despise asian fusion because it’s neither here nor there but he successfully uses different elements from around the world –
octopus taco – Galician Octopus + blue corn tortilla + yellow mole + parmigiana reggiano was a star. The korean lasagna which is reviewed all over (using wonton skins as opposed to egg pasta) wasn’t much of a hit for me, despite using 45 day matured galician beef. Overall I found the kimchi relatively non-existent (other than powder?) But a super fun place and creative with “combinations that sound like they should suck” – bourdain
I’m currently staying at Fenix Gran Melia (5 star hotel in the middle of the action. superb location) but about 1/5th the cost of the other 5 stars in the area. Really a steal. booked with Amex points, free breakfast, free meal too via Amex Plat + 5x points cash back. Can’t be beat. Gym is small but good quality technogym pulley equipment.