In the heart of Madrid’s La Latina district, on Cava Baja street, there has been a place for half a century where not only locals gather, but also monarchs, politicians, artists, and anyone who appreciates real Spanish cuisine. The name of this establishment has long become legendary — Casa Lucio. Its founder, Lucio Blázquez, over his 92 years, has become a living legend of the city.
Lucio doesn’t like being called a restaurateur. For him, it’s more important to be a simple tavern owner, where every guest feels at home. The menu here hasn’t changed for decades: special dishes are served on certain days of the week, and regulars know them by heart. For example, on Wednesdays there’s a hearty Madrid cocido, on Mondays — lentils with quail, and on Tuesdays — a rich bean stew. But no matter the day, you will always find the signature eggs, broken directly onto potatoes — a recipe first made by Lucio’s grandmother during hard times.
The guests of Casa Lucio include presidents, kings, film and music stars. The restaurant’s walls hold countless stories that the owner prefers not to share. Occasionally, though, the celebrities themselves recall their visits. In the 1970s, the architects of the Spanish Constitution used to gather here, and after Franco’s death, pivotal questions for the country were discussed within these walls. Seated at the same table could be former prime ministers, the monarch, and ordinary Madrileños — all united by their love of simple, flawless food.
Lucio no longer walks around the hall in a white jacket as he once did, but he still comes in every day for lunch, sits by the entrance, and greets guests. Sometimes he tells jokes, the kind he was known for among regulars. His daughter Maricarmen helps maintain the warm family atmosphere and the quality that keeps people coming back again and again.
Casa Lucio is more than just a restaurant—it’s part of the city’s history. People even travel from Mexico to taste the famous eggs and experience the spirit of old Madrid. Although Lucio was offered opportunities to open branches in New York or Mexico City, he always remained loyal to his neighborhood. Among his friends were Mexican presidents and the legendary actor Cantinflas, but for Lucio, what mattered most was staying close to his neighbors and friends in La Latina.
Lucio’s life has seen many touching moments. Once, when former Prime Minister Calvo Sotelo passed away, Lucio decided to pay his respects to his friend even though he hadn’t been invited to the official ceremony. He was recognized at the entrance to the cathedral and let in without a word, and later was even welcomed by the family of the deceased. He earned this respect thanks to the way he treated people—everyone was important to him, regardless of their status.
In 2015, another historic episode took place at Casa Lucio: King Juan Carlos and all the living former presidents of Spain gathered at the same table. For those dining at the restaurant that evening, it became a true sensation.
Lucio’s path was never easy. He was born into a humble family in the village of Serranillos in the province of Ávila. At the age of 12, he moved to Madrid and started working at another establishment, climbing the ranks from cleaner to owner. Over time, this place became Casa Lucio. Together with his wife, Carmen García, with whom he spent nearly 60 years, he created not just a restaurant, but a true home for all who value sincerity, hard work, and tradition. After his wife’s passing in 2020, Lucio continues to come to his restaurant, where he is always awaited and remembered.
