antigua casa diego

Updated October 2023

Founded in 1972 by the father of previous owners Manuel and Carmen, who retired in 2022, Casa Diego has been taken over by the Arcas brothers (Paco, Carlos & Pepe) of Las Golondrinas fame, and rechristened Antigua Casa Diego. There has been an extensive renovation combining modern touches, including a brand new kitchen, with some of the original tile work and the famous Santa Ana Church ceramic beer pump. Inside is a small bar with high stools and a few low tables near the door, leading out onto a comfortable sidewalk terrace. One of the most attractive new features are the large “accordian” windows that open onto the street, giving the entire bar an open and airy feel.

It’s a mainly traditional menu that has maintained a few of the original bar’s favourite tapas such as the fried chicken, carne mechada and hearty stews. New on offer are grilled fish and meat dishes. We’ve enjoyed everything we tried here over a couple of visits. The octopus ensaladilla with smoked paprika mayo might be my favourite in the city, packed with flavour. Grilled castañitas are sweet and tender, the bacalao and leek croquetas have a perfect crunchy exterior and are creamy and delicious inside, and the famous fried chicken is tender and tasty. There’s quite a good wine list and service is friendly, as befits a typical Triana neighbourhood bar.

Bread/Service Charge: 1€