When times call for unapologetic, old-world formality, reserve a table at Taberna del Albardero. Regal and resplendent, with everything from the walls and fabrics to the plush carpets awash in vivid red, this is the kind of place where servers donning formal attire deliver white glove service to international dignitaries—the din of a dozen different languages weaving a kind of symphony in the background. Madrid-native Javier Romero's menu begins with classic Spanish tapas-patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo. Edgier creations may include prawn burgers on ink-tinted buns and arroz cremosa calabaza, a Spanish riff on risotto with tempura-fried Blue Point oysters, butternut squash purée-flavored sauce and a drizzle of anise liqueur. - MICHELIN guide inspectors