Sobrino de Botín, nestled in the heart of Madrid, Spain, is not only a celebrated landmark but also the oldest restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It was founded in 1725 by a French cook named Jean Botín and his wife, and it has been serving traditional Spanish cuisine ever since. The restaurant, originally called "Casa Botín", was inherited by Botín's nephew, hence the name "Sobrino de Botín", which translates to "Botín's nephew". Over the centuries, it has witnessed the ebbs and flows of history, surviving two world wars, the Spanish Civil War, and numerous changes in monarchies and governments. Stepping into Sobrino de Botín is like stepping back in time. Its exterior, a quaint four-story structure, is emblematic of 18th-century Spanish architecture. The façade, painted in a charming shade of burnt sienna, features large, wood-framed windows that allow passersby a glimpse of the lively atmosphere inside. Inside, the ambiance is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, rustic wooden beams, and vintage furnishings that hint at its illustrious past. The lower level houses the original wood-fired oven, still in use today, where the restaurant's legendary suckling pig and roasted lamb are cooked to perfection. The restaurant has been immortalized in literature as well. Ernest Hemingway, a frequent patron, mentioned it in his novel "The Sun Also Rises", and it is said that the young Francisco de Goya worked there as a waiter while waiting to get accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. Sobrino de Botín’s guest list is a who’s who of history and includes famed personalities like Hemingway, Goya, and even the King of Spain, Alfonso XIII. Today, it continues to be a beloved culinary institution, serving up delectable Spanish dishes to locals and tourists alike, and enchanting them with its rich history and timeless charm. In terms of interesting facts, the restaurant has never closed its doors or turned off its ovens in nearly 300 years, maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality and tradition. It's a testament to the resilience and passion of the generations of families who have owned and operated it, ensuring that Sobrino de Botín remains a cherished part of Madrid's cultural and culinary landscape.