In the very heart of Madrid, at 17 Morería Street, a place has thrived for seven decades, becoming a true mecca for flamenco and gastronomy enthusiasts. Corral de la Morería is not just a restaurant, but a unique cultural phenomenon, where global celebrities, politicians, and Spain’s finest artists have shared a table. Over the years, the venue has not only maintained its status but has become a symbol of the capital, where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand.
The del Rey family, at the helm of Corral de la Morería, proudly calls their creation the country’s oldest flamenco tablao and the only restaurant with a live show to be awarded a Michelin star. Notable personalities like Ronald Reagan, Che Guevara, Ava Gardner, Marlon Brando, The Beatles, and Kiss have all visited. In 2026, the establishment will celebrate its 70th anniversary, and a documentary film has been made in honor of the date, offering an inside look at this legendary venue.
The roots of success: flamenco and fine dining under one roof
It all began with Manuel del Rey’s dream to unite his passion for flamenco with his love of haute cuisine. His idea was revolutionary for the 1950s: in May 1956, the doors of Corral de la Morería opened to the public for the first time. Here, guests could not only enjoy performances by flamenco stars but also sample dishes with a French flair. This approach quickly captured the public’s interest and gave artists much-needed stability — for the first time, they could perform on a regular basis and earn a decent living.
From the very beginning, the venue became a hotspot for figures from the worlds of art, politics, and show business. Within just a few years, Corral de la Morería established itself as a must-visit destination on Madrid’s cultural map, alongside famous bars and museums. Over its 70-year history, it has welcomed presidents, actors, musicians, and even legendary rock bands.
Global recognition and celebrity guests
Corral de la Morería’s fame has long spread beyond Spain. Thanks to visits from international celebrities, the restaurant has become a true symbol of flamenco culture. In 2023, it was named Madrid’s top cultural attraction, surpassing even such iconic sites as the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace.
National dance award winners and recipients of medals in the arts have graced its stage, as well as legends like Paco de Lucía and Camarón de la Isla. It was here that Paco de Lucía first performed his famous piece “Entre dos aguas.” Over the years, the audience has included Jennifer Aniston, Kiss, Ursula Andress, Sigourney Weaver, and Nicole Kidman. For many, Corral de la Morería has become more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where history is made.
Two restaurants and world-class gastronomy
Today, Corral de la Morería encompasses two distinct gastronomic spaces. The first is a classic restaurant-tablao with seating for 100 guests, where visitors can enjoy a show and dishes created by Michelin-starred chef David García. The second is an intimate fine dining restaurant with just four tables, where the chef personally prepares meals for only eight guests. Securing a reservation here is a challenge: the waiting list stretches for months, and it’s best to book the main hall well in advance.
The owner emphasizes that Corral de la Morería has always aimed to remain accessible to the general public. Ticket prices for the show are lower than many musicals in the capital, and chef’s menus start at 49 euros. Despite this, both the culinary and artistic standards remain high, and the wine list offers something for every taste and budget.
Documentary film: Seventy years in one hour
For the anniversary of Corral de la Morería, a documentary titled “Morería” directed by Jaime Descallar has been produced. Over the course of 63 minutes, viewers are immersed in the venue’s unique atmosphere, discovering stories of the owners, performers, chefs, and even those who care for the stage and kitchen daily. The film showcases not only the glamorous side, but also the day-to-day efforts of those who make Corral de la Morería a truly exceptional place.
The director admits he was struck by the professionalism and passion of everyone working there. For him, as a true Madrileño, discovering this world was a genuine revelation. The film features not only the voices of stars, but also ordinary staff members, without whom the venue’s success would be impossible.
Memories and atmosphere
For the del Rey family, Corral de la Morería is more than just a business—it’s a way of life. The owner recalls encounters with world-famous celebrities, but most notably remembers the moment the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star and three Repsol Suns. According to him, there is no other place in the world where flamenco and gastronomy reach such exceptional heights together.
Today, Corral de la Morería continues to amaze its guests, staying true to its traditions while embracing new ideas. Seventy years of history, thousands of performances, and millions of memories—all this makes the restaurant a truly unique phenomenon on Madrid’s cultural map.
