Polenta is in a privileged setting in the oldest part of Madrid - Madrid de los Austrias - opposite the Senate and close to the Royal Palace, the Sabatini gardens and the Teatro Real. After enticing you with an imaginative hors d'oeuvre made from its namesake polenta, its friendly waiters will undoubtedly recommend one of the house specialities, although the long list of tempting options makes choosing difficult. The menu features dishes that mix the oriental and the Mediterranean; the traditional and the innovative, punctuated with some excellent soups. One ordering option is the curious but clever "encadenados" for 2, 3 or 4 people, which allows you to choose several items from the menu at a fixed price. The restaurant is originally decorated and is both relaxed and modern with excellent music. It?s a great choice for either quick or lingering business lunches.