Gula Gula

As someone new to Madrid, I'm constantly getting advice from madrileños about what kinds of things I need to do before my time in Spain is up. Every time I ask about somewhere fun to go, people recommend Gula Gula. With a name like Gula Gula, I had to check it out.

With a name that translates to mean gluttony, you can be sure to take part in all the hedonistic pleasures of life. Plenty of food, booze, and men dressed in drag. That's right, Gula Gula is a place to get dinner and catch a show full of drag queens.

Walking into Gula Gula, you could automatically feel the fun and excitement in the air, in part probably because of the tunes that the DJ was spinning. Despite the rhythmic beats that you can't help but dance to, the staff seems genuinely happy to be there. Typically in Madrid, good customer service and a satisfying experience at restaurants and night clubs can be hard to find. The Gula Gula staff was friendly and helpful. And this is coming from someone who could barely see the action because we were seated so far away that we were practically in the bathroom! But don't worry, it seemed like everyone who was not a member of the press had better seats. Frankly, Gula Gula doesn't need help from the press or websites such as Web Madrid. Word of mouth is the only advertisement or publicity they need. Their place is fun and they know it.

Gula Gula also offers quite the dinner selection. While their choices of hot dishes are limited, they have an extensive salad bar. A great place for people, especially vegetarians, tired of the typical meat dishes offered at every other restaurant around town. Everyone seemed to be enjoying their food, but was eagerly anticipating the beginning of the show. However, you don't have to wait for the show to start to interact with the drag queens, you may be lucky enough to have one as your waiter. The typical bill from Gula Gula usually runs about 18 to 27 euros a head, depending on what you order. Lunch is also offered at Gula Gula, but doesn't include the show.

When most of the diners have finished the meals, the show begins. Of course this involves a flamboyant drag queen who tells jokes and sings saucy lyrics to songs. Even if you don't understand all the Spanish being used, it is still a good time. Overall, I'd recommend attending Gula Gula at least one night when in Madrid. But be prepared to reserve your spot early, the staff told me that typically you need to reserve a table two weeks ahead of time.

There are also two branches of Gula Gula in Madrid, one on Gran Via and the a smaller one on Infante.

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