Please pardon my english.

Madrid through the eyes of an American.

Moving to Madrid has been an immensely enriching cultural experience. When the Spanish say, "hay de todo" they are right. From the mountains, to the sea, the rain in the North, to a more desert climate in the South, and then there's your food! Between croquetas (or as my mom liked to call them little balls of heaven), patatas bravas (which do not translate to Brave Potatoes), tortilla de patata, and don't even get me started on the wine. Even so, the one thing I do miss the most in Spain, aside from American football, is Brunch. For those of you that may not know, Bruch is a cultural tradition in the United States. We normally don't sit in restaurants at length like you do Spain, our waiters don't earn minimum wage, so tips make up their salary. Herego when we sit down to eat there lingers a slight sense of urgency (because the longer you stay the less tables your wait will have, which translates to them making less money). However, at Brunch you can stay as long as you like, and the food is incredible! Brunch is a combination of the words Breakfast and Lunch, and is served only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00-16:00 more or less. The food is endless from eggs benedict, hashbrowns, omelettes, sandwiches, quiches, french toast, waffles, bacon, sausage, skillets, roasted vegetables, and desserts. You always drink with brunch whether it be a savory bloody mary (vodka/gin with tomato juice and hot sauce) or a sweet mimosa (champagne and orange juice).

I tell you this with great anticipation to share with you the most exciting news; I have found three brunch restaurants in Madrid that rival the real thing! One is called Carmencita near metro stop Noviciado, another Opalo near Plaza Mayor, and the third Pum Pum in Lavapiés. Carmencita has excellent cheap mimosas and brunch every day where you can choose from an array of scrumptious choices. Opalo was created and is run by an American chef, therefore it attracts many American ex-patriots and you are sure to find delicious American cuisine. Pum Pum's tea selection is incredibly extensive, and their bakery offers delicious treats, more similar to an American style brunch! So if you are looking for an intercultural experience (and the opportunity to overhear many native English speakers chatting while feasting themselves) make sure to check them out! The food is great, and it truly is a little piece of the United States in Madrid.