Visitors hoping to dive into Spanish food culture will get their fill at Madrid restaurants.The Spanish capital is a must-visit destination for foodies. Madrid is home to Michelin-star restaurants, iconic dishes, and accommodations for different dietary preferences.
I spent a few weeks getting familiar with the food scene in Madrid, Spain through tasting menus and traditional tapas bars. The truth is there are just as many amazing restaurants as there are cool things to do in Madrid, which can get a bit overwhelming.
Luckily, I’ve narrowed down the extensive list to just the very best restaurants around Madrid.
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27 Best Restaurants in Madrid
Taberna El Sur
🍽️ Spanish | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 915 278 340
Some of the best food you can get your hands on in Madrid can be found at quaint, affordable tapas bars around the city. Take Taberna El Sur for instance. Their menu will keep you right on budget for your Spain trip, but the food doesn’t cut corners on quality at all.
You’ll discover some of the best tapas dishes in the country right here at this little spot. Plus, the portions are notably huge, so it’s a great restaurant for sharing.
Don’t forget to try out the ropa vieja at Taberna El Sur. Ropa vieja is a rich traditional Cuban dish that will leave you fantasizing about it for days to come.
📚 Related Reading: Where to Stay in Madrid
Los Montes de Galicia
🍽️ Galician | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 913 552 786
The northern Spanish region of Galicia is responsible for tons of delicious, traditional dishes. You don’t have to travel all the way to the tip-top of Spain to get a taste of these treats, though. You can get it right in Madrid at Los Montes de Galicia.
This exceptional restaurant totes the best Galician specialties, like Octopus a feira. Along with more creative takes on other plates, like white suckling beef ribs and monkfish. It’s the ideal spot for when you want something different, but still want to stick to Spanish food.
Bar La Campana
🍽️ Tapas | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 913 642 984
You haven’t officially visited Madrid yet until you get a taste of all its local food specialties. One of the more curious of those fortes is bocadillo de calamares, which is basically a calamari sandwich.
There are quite a few places to get this legendary Madrid street food, but one of the best is Bar La Campana.
Bar La Campana is a super affordable tapas joint that’s especially renowned for its bocadillo de calamares. It’s flavorful, salty, and really hits the spot when you want a quick walking food. Just make sure you give an extra squeeze of lemon before you take a bite.
Coque
🍽️ Fine Dining | ($$$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 916 040 202
Coque is a two-Michelin-star restaurant near the Salamanca neighborhood. It’s a fine dining establishment with vibrant dishes that look like they were crafted on a different planet.
The food isn’t the only spectacular thing at this Madrid restaurant, though. It’s the whole journey. For each course on the tasting menu, you’ll be transported to a different area of the restaurant.
You’ll start in the bar for appetizers. The wine cellar will follow, containing 100-year-old bottles for a pre-meal drink. Finally, you’ll have one more appetizer in the kitchen before heading into the impressive main dining room for the grand finale.
The whole experience makes you feel a part of the restaurant, as opposed to just another guest. Its elegance and creativity easily make Coque one of Madrid’s best restaurants.
👉 Coque is one of my top recommendations for fine dining restaurants on my 6-day Madrid itinerary. You can also get a free, printable version of my Madrid itinerary here.
Mu! El Placer de la Carne
🍽️ Argentinian | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 912 193 359
Hungry for a hearty serving of meat in Madrid? You’ll find plenty of it at Mu! El Placer de la Carne.
This Argentinian restaurant totes an awesome ‘menu del dia’ option that comes with a starter, a side, a main course, a dessert, and a drink to finish it all off. It’s the ideal place to eat in Madrid when you’re super hungry and don’t want to make too many decisions.
Pez Tortilla
🍽️ Tapas Bar | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps
You can’t visit Madrid without stopping at Pez Tortilla.
One of the best things to do in Spain is eat traditional delicacies, like Spanish tortillas. You’re probably imagining a plain corn tortilla on a plate, but this is more like an omelet with ingredients like potatoes and onions. Spanish tortillas are usually cut into cake-like slices and served as a tasty little appetizer.
Spanish tortilla is a big thing in Madrid and you’ll find it on most menus at local restaurants. I recommend visiting one of the handful of Pez Tortilla locations around Madrid to get a true taste of tortillas and a beer.
Malacatín
🍽️ Madrilian | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 913 655 241
The family-run restaurant of Malacatín has been handed down for four generations since 1893. That fact should key you into how special of a place this is right off the bat.
Malacatín is a traditional Madrilian restaurant with ultra-authentic tapas that will give you a real taste of Spanish cuisine.
Make sure you order the Cocido Madrileño when you’re eating at Malacatin. It’s a classic Spanish stew that originated from Madrid. Cocido Madrileño is made with a smorgasbord of meats, vegetables, and chickpeas. Perfect for a late evening meal when a coolness has settled over the city.
👉 Pro Tip: Malacatin is only a few blocks away from the adorable Mercado de San Fernando. For wanderers with an eternally empty stomach, consider Mercado de San Fernando for some post-dinner snacks.
Angelita
🍽️ Bar & Grill | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 915 216 678
Angelita is a simple yet exceptional restaurant that specializes in modern Spanish cuisine. It’s located right near the famous Puerta del Sol town square, so if you’re visiting that tourist attraction this is a great stop for lunch.
Angelita offers one of the best tasting menus in Madrid, making it ideal for patrons who want the restaurant to do the choosing for them. Visitors who decide to go for the tasting menu should definitely complement it with Angelita’s drink pairings. Each one is just the right accompaniment to the food.
DSTAgE
🍽️ Fine Dining | ($$$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 917 021 586
Diners who are on the hunt for fine dining with a flair will appreciate DTAgE. This famous two-Michelin-star restaurant focuses on Spanish dishes. However, they throw a little something special into their dishes to make it an entirely new experience.
Not only is every dish dripping in innovation, but DTAgE also has an open kitchen. You can watch the entire process of making the edible artwork come to life.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, but it doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time and plan to splurge. With that being said, it’s worth the extra preparation.
El miniBAR
🍽️ Tapas Bar | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 696 055 194
Visitors to Spain usually have one thing on their minds when it comes to food – tapas. There is such a wide range of amazing tapas places to choose from that it can be a tad overwhelming. However, you are sure to have a top-notch meal if you dine at El miniBAR near the La Latina neighborhood.
It’s an intimate little space that pulls you in and makes you feel completely welcome. No matter what tapas plates you get, you’re guaranteed to be left impressed. Some of the very best dishes at El miniBAR that you can’t get anywhere else are the wild boar rolls and the duck confit with prune and port wine sauce.
Restaurante Rosi La Loca
🍽️ Tapas Bar | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 915 326 681
The colorful Restaurante Rosi La Loca is filled with personality and life that really leaves an impression on you. After all, you can spot the place from a mile away.
The decor is on the wacky side, but it’s fun and funky. It’s one of the best restaurants to visit before hitting the nightlife scene in Madrid. The menu features classic fresh tapas that are served in a highly unconventional way. You just have to see it to believe it.
Restaurante Rosi La Loca is also known for its equally intriguing cocktails inspired by Alice in Wonderland. You have to try the Crazy Cat. It comes with gin, mango puree, lemon, and violet, all served up in a Cheshire Cat cup smiling wide.
DiverXO
🍽️ Fine Dining | ($$$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 915 700 766
Madrid isn’t lacking in memorable fine dining restaurants, but one of the best is DiverXO. It’s not one of those stuffy types of fancy restaurants that leaves you feeling stiff the entire meal.
DiverXO is inviting with its bright, open space and comfortable seating. You can ease in at DiverXO and feel like you’re just eating an exceptional meal at a friend’s house. A friend with above-average interior design skills.
The food at DiverXO is just as impressive as the atmosphere they’ve cultivated. Go for the tasting menu to get the full performance. Each dish is more creative and thought-provoking than the last. It’s not just for show, though. The plates are also insanely delicious.
Charrúa Madrid
🍽️ Uruguayan | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 912 791 601
Charrúa is an impeccable restaurant for a steak dinner in Madrid. They have a wide variety of steaks from all over the world, including cuts from Uruguay, the USA, Spain, and Germany. Along with a healthy dose of yummy sides, like grilled artichokes, creole, sausage, and spinach feta cheese pie.
The low-lit space makes Charrúa a really romantic spot to spend the evening with a date. Stunning dining area, exceptional food, and friendly service. What more could you want?
La Sanabresa
🍽️ Spanish | ($) |📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 914 290 338
Are you hungry for traditional Spanish fare without all the bells and whistles? La Sanabresa is your answer. Specifically, the menu del dia.
For just 10€-20€, you get to choose a starter, a main course, and a dessert. There are 10+ options for each portion of the meal, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
La Sanabresa is a fantastic lunch stop for travelers on a budget in Europebecause you get huge portions of food for a small bill.
Carmencita Brunch
🍽️ Brunch | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 910 003 890
When I’m traveling, I appreciate a reliable brunch place more than ever. In Madrid, the place to go for that midday egg craving is Carmencita Brunch. They have all the best brunch fixings, including seven different types of eggs benedict and a bunch of burger styles if you’re leaning more toward brunch.
Carmencita also offers vegan and gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy a pre-outing brunch here.
Chocolatería San Ginés
🍽️ Chocolate Cafe | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 913 656 546
After so many substantial, savory meals, you’ll likely be in the market for something sweet. Chocolateria San Ginés is one of the most famous places for getting a hit of sugary goodness in Madrid.
Chocolateria San Ginés is located right in the city center just a two minute walk away from Plaza Mayor. San Ginés is a beloved institute in Madrid that’s been serving up rich, decadent hot chocolate with crispy churros since 1894.
The coolest part about Chocolatería San Ginés (besides its deliciousness) is that it’s open 24 hours a day, Thursday through Saturday. Its weekend hours make it a popular place to pop in for sweet treats after getting a taste of Madrid’s nightlife.
Chuka Ramen Bar
🍽️ Japanese | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞+34 640 651 346
One of the things I love about Madrid is the diverse range of restaurants throughout the city. Sure, there are countless places for Spanish food. However, there are just as many excellent international options, like Chuka Ramen Bar.
Chuka is a chill, little venue that prides itself on its beautifully arranged plates and filling bowls of ramen. This is another one of those restaurants in Madrid where you can’t go wrong with anything you order.
Chuka Ramen Bar is especially prized for its assortment of stuffed full bao buns. The pulled pork and fried chicken baos are a must-try at Chuka.
Ástor Gastro-Place
🍽️ Mediterranean | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 910 398 000
Ástor Gastro-Place feels like fine dining for a much more affordable price. The restaurant space is simple but effectively cultivates a high-end feel. It’s a fantastic compromise for people who want to experience Madrid’s creative eateries without going over budget.
The restaurant is distinguished for its outstanding mushroom risotto. There are a lot of great risottos around the city, but this one is another level. To accompany your meal, try one of Ástor’s exquisite cocktails. They’re tastefully made and absolutely delectable.
👉 Pro Tip: Astor Gastro Place is only a 5-minute walk away from the famous Corral de la Morería Flamenco theater. Grab dinner at the restaurant and then can catch a show at Corral de la Morería for a nice, easy evening in Madrid.
Casa Botín
🍽️ Spanish | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 913 664 217
Casa Botín in central Madrid isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a piece of history. Casa Botín is actually the oldest restaurant in the world. It’s certified by the Guinness Book of World Records and everything.
The restaurant was founded nearly 300 years ago in 1725. It’s been exceeding patron’s expectations and upholding culinary traditions ever since.
Besides the fact that Casa Botín is basically a cultural institution of Madrid, they also have really tasty food. The restaurant crafts traditional recipes that are loved in Spain, like cochinillo, roast lamb, and grilled prawns.
Yerbabuena
🍽️ Vegetarian | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 915 994 805
Spain is a country that loves its meat, but that doesn’t mean vegetarians can’t enjoy this beautiful country. Yerbabuena is one of the many restaurants in Madrid that accommodate dietary restrictions.
Yerbabuena’s bright, vivid vegetarian dishes are super substantial and leave you feeling really good inside. It’s not lacking in flavor either with plates like vegan stuffed jalapeños, spinach cannelloni, and their famed Yerbabuena pizza.
All in all, Yerbabuena is a nice stop for lunch when you need a break from the meat-heavy dishes.
VEGA
🍽️ Vegan | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 910 704 969
The intimate, little VEGA is the place to go for vegan and vegetable dishes in Madrid. Everything is put together with fresh produce and lots of love. The al pastor jackfruit tacos are a favorite appetizer from VEGA.
As for the main, try out the arroz negro or korma curry. VEGA won’t leave you hanging when it comes to dessert, either. The tiramisu and panna cotta are both incredible takes on the classic desserts.
GatoGato
🍽️ Tapas Bar| ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 912 086 870
GatoGato is one of the most imaginative restaurants in Madrid. That’s one of the wonderful things about the city; there are so many creative restaurants to choose from. At GatoGato, you can expect plates that will surprise you, even if you’ve already had lots of enchanting meals so far.
Like many places in Madrid, GatoGato provides a rotating ‘menu del dia’ that gives you a good deal on set courses from the restaurant. The price varies slightly, but it’s usually under 15 EUR for huge scrumptious servings.
For patrons who prefer picking their own spread, GatoGato also has a permanent menu with fish, vegetable, and meat dishes. Don’t forget to check out their wine list, too, because it’s stacked with phenomenal bottles.
Indian Accent Madrid
🍽️ Indian | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 914 347 056
Indian Accent helps me re-emphasize my earlier point about how Madrid has so many great international options. This one is a doozy if you love Indian food like me and weren’t expecting to find any in Madrid.
The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive at Indian Accent is the considerate service and hospitable atmosphere. Next, you’ll probably be hit with the intense aroma of amazing food.
This place serves all the classic Indian dishes like korma, biryani, vindaloo, and tikka masala. And of course, some paneer samosas and toasty naan bread on the side. It’s right near the city center, so Indian Accent is easy to access from most places in Madrid.
Raza Madrid
🍽️ Spanish Fusion | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 918 398 433
Raza is a classy, romantic joint that really sets the bar high for restaurants in Madrid. They take all the classic dishes in Spain you already love and throw an extra special twist on them.
You can expect to find delights like wagyu tataki with Padron peppers and grilled avocado with warm Caprese salad. Plus a range of high-end steaks that come from everywhere from Argentina to Finland.
The touch that really makes Raza stand out for me is their exceptional dessert menu, though. Just thinking about their white chocolate cake with champagne syrup or the strudel with caramelized pear gets my taste buds excited.
ARAIA
🍽️Mediterranean | ($$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34663758328
ARAIA is one of the best restaurants in Madrid. Better yet, it’s still a hidden gem that’s not completely booked up every night (yet).
It’s housed in a super sleek and otherworldly type of space. It almost looks like they built a fancy restaurant into the body of a cave. The interior isn’t the only special thing about ARAIA.
The food is what has really given ARAIA its flawless reputation. The menu has remnants of its Mediterranean roots, but each dish is taken to a new level that leaves a big impression.
You’ll indulge in things like Lebanese-Yemeni squid with green mango zhoug sauce. Alternatively, go for the Iberian sausage cooked with roasted apple, curry, and caramelized cabbage. Their plates are somehow simple and elevated all at once.
📚 Related Reading: Visiting the gorgeous food mecca of Seville in southern Spain? Don’t forget to read my guide to all the best restaurants in Seville, too!
Ramón Freixa Madrid
🍽️ Fine Dining | ($$$$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 917 818 262
The Ramón Freixa restaurant has built up a name for being one of the most luxurious restaurants in Madrid. With two Michelin stars and backed by a celebrated Spanish chef, I’d say that’s a pretty fair assessment. It’s worth checking it out for yourself on a trip to Madrid.
There are three tasting menus to choose from at Ramón Freixa, and each one is equally as opulent with a bunch of different courses. Make sure you visit this restaurant on an empty stomach because you won’t want to skip a bite of this huge meal.
They also offer a seasonal menu if you prefer to get the specialties according to the time of year.
👉 Pro Tip: One important thing to note is that as a general rule, Ramón Freixa does not allow children at their restaurant. Patrons must be at least 14 years old to visit Ramón Freixa. However, they may be able to make an exception for especially restaurant-experienced kids.
Santa Eulalia
🍽️ Patisserie | ($$) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +34 911 385 875
Let’s finish off our list of the best places to eat in Madrid with something on the sweet side: Santa Eulalia. This world-class patisserie is located right in the heart of the city, just a five-minute walk away from Palacio Real de Madrid.
Inside, you’ll discover a contemporary cafe with all the caffeine and baked goods you can handle. The pastry menu changes fairly often, so every time you visit Santa Eulalia, you’re in for a sweet surprise.
FAQs about Where to Eat in Madrid
What is the most famous restaurant in Madrid?
The most famous restaurant in Madrid is Casa Botín. There are many well-known dining establishments in Spain’s capital city, but Casa Botín is famous for being the oldest restaurant in the world. It is a traditional Spanish restaurant that originally opened its doors back in 1725. Today, you can still find many traditional dishes from Spain prepared here.
What food is Madrid famous for?
There are quite a few famous foods that originated in Madrid, including bocadillo de calamares, cocido madrileño, and grilled pig’s ear. There are also a lot of famous dishes from other regions that are extremely popular in Madrid, like Spanish tortillas and churros.
What are the best restaurants in Madrid for kids?
The best restaurants in Madrid for kids are Angelita,La Sanabresa, and Restaurante Rosi La Loca. Each of these restaurants in Madrid has ample space for a full family to dine comfortably and a very welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, the menus at these establishments include plenty of kid-friendly options. Even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied.
What are the most romantic restaurants in Madrid?
The best restaurants in Madrid for romance are Charrúa,Raza, and Ástor Gastro-Place. There are many romantic restaurants in Madrid, but these three are among the best for their charming atmosphere. Each of these romantic restaurants in Madrid also offers outstanding food depending on what you’re in the mood for.
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I hope you’re hungry because you’re caught up in all the best restaurants around Madrid! Which iconic restaurant in Madrid are you booking a table at? Let us know in the comments below. Next, read my guide on Barcelona vs. Madrid, where I break down the pros and cons of both Spanish cities.
