Yue Lai
Yue Lai is a restaurant in the Salamanca area of Madrid that specializes in Sichuan cuisine and is known for its hot pot dining concept. The two-level space features simple red and dark decor without tablecloths, but offers a wide selection of thinly sliced ingredients including beef, shrimp, vegetables, and mushrooms that cook quickly in simmering broth.
The restaurant has built a reputation as one of Madrid's better Chinese establishments, with a specific focus on authentic Sichuan hot pot dining. Its popularity stems from bringing traditional flavors and cooking techniques from this Chinese region to Madrid while maintaining quality standards.
The place functions as a gathering spot where the shared cooking experience takes precedence, reflecting how Sichuan hot pot brings people together around a single table. The red decor and simple traditional style create an environment where diners focus on communal eating and trying different ingredients at their own pace.
The restaurant is located on Hermosilla Street near Goya metro station and stays open from midday until late night, allowing flexible scheduling for lunch or dinner. It is best to visit during quieter times, especially on weekends, though reservations can be helpful during busier periods.
The plain storefront with Chinese characters goes unnoticed by many passersby, despite being a favored spot with genuine Sichuan flavors. Weekends fill the place with predominantly Chinese diners, a sign of the cuisine's authenticity and the genuine Sichuan experience that visitors can find in Madrid.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
