El Estragón

Set beside the Austrias' historic Plaza de la Paja (literally, Square of the Straw), this delightful veggie outpost (estragón means tarragon) offers a homey ambience with 20-odd tables set on three levels amid a decor of check tablecloths, russet terra-cotta tiles, and plaid curtains. The menu provides an eclectic choice of vegetarian dishes, from a vegetable-filled risotto verde to soy albóndigas (meatballs) -- even a cordon bleu steak that contains no meat (only vegetables). Popular appetizers are almond soup or pepper tart, and few can resist winding up with the delicious homemade chocolate tart with truffles. Unlike most green eating spots, it does in fact also have pinchos (kabobs) at the bar. The weekday fixed-lunch menu is good value but be warned: On weekends it doubles in price. A recent added bonus for website fanatics is the free Internet access.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.