Context:

In Madrid, Sobrino de Botín, recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest restaurant, faces a challenge from Casa Pedro, a rustic tavern claiming an even older lineage. Casa Pedro's owners allege their establishment predates Botín, enduring historical events such as the Napoleonic invasion and the War of Spanish Succession. Despite lacking definitive proof, they have found documents dating their operations to at least 1750, nearly matching Botín's record. Both restaurants share a rich history and offer traditional Castilian dishes but differ in clientele and location, with Botín attracting tourists near Plaza Mayor and Casa Pedro serving local regulars. The pursuit of the Guinness title depends on substantial evidence of continuous operation, a requirement that poses challenges due to historical document loss in events like the Spanish Civil War.

Dive Deeper:

• Sobrino de Botín, located in the heart of Madrid, is celebrated as the world's oldest restaurant, a title it has held since being awarded by Guinness World Records. It attracts a large number of tourists interested in both its historical significance and traditional Castilian cuisine.

• Casa Pedro, situated on the outskirts of Madrid, claims to be older than Botín, asserting its presence since 1702 and surviving several historical conflicts. However, its lack of documented evidence from the early 18th century has made proving this claim challenging.

• The owners of Casa Pedro have engaged a historian to uncover records, successfully finding documentation dating back to 1750. This places Casa Pedro in close contention with Botín for the title of the oldest restaurant, although the exact date of its establishment remains unverified.

• Both restaurants have rich histories and offer similar menus featuring Castilian classics, yet they differ in their clientele and location. Botín is a tourist hotspot near Plaza Mayor, while Casa Pedro serves a loyal local clientele, including notable figures like Spanish royalty.

• Guinness's criteria for the title require continuous operation in the same location under the same name, a challenge for Casa Pedro due to historical document losses. The search for records continues, as Casa Pedro's owners hope to validate their establishment's age despite the odds.

• Botín's historical reputation includes a roster of famous literary patrons, enhancing its allure and drawing visitors beyond the Guinness title. Meanwhile, Casa Pedro, despite its royal connections, maintains a modest profile due to its location and focus on local patrons.

• The pursuit of the Guinness title remains a dream for Casa Pedro's owners, who acknowledge that even if successful, their remote location would likely prevent them from attracting Botín's tourist-heavy clientele, highlighting the different dynamics each establishment faces.