Madrid, Spain’s bustling capital, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and of course, its incredible food. My trip to Madrid was nothing short of a gastronomic adventure. From traditional Spanish dishes to creative modern cuisine, this city has it all. In this guide, I’ll take you through some of the best restaurants I had the pleasure of trying, as well as a few that are on my list for next time.
1. Sobrino de Botín: The World’s Oldest Restaurant
I couldn’t start this guide without mentioning Sobrino de Botín, the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness World Records. Established in 1725, this iconic eatery offers an authentic taste of traditional Spanish cuisine.
Location:
Address: Calle de Cuchilleros, 17, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Located in the heart of Madrid, just a short walk from the famous Plaza Mayor, Sobrino de Botín is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and food.
How to Get There:
The restaurant is easily accessible by public transport. I took the metro to the Sol station and walked for about 10 minutes. It’s also close to many popular attractions, so you can combine your visit with sightseeing.
My Experience:
Walking into Sobrino de Botín felt like stepping back in time. The rustic décor, with its wooden beams and dim lighting, created a warm and cozy atmosphere. I started with a plate of jamón ibérico, which was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. For the main course, I couldn’t resist ordering their signature dish: cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). The meat was incredibly tender, with crispy skin that added the perfect contrast in texture. I paired it with a glass of local red wine, which complemented the rich flavors of the dish perfectly.
Price Range:
The meal was on the pricier side, with mains ranging from €20-€35, but it was worth every penny for the quality and experience.
Recommendation Rating:
10/10 – A must-visit for anyone looking to experience Madrid’s culinary heritage.
Reservations:
I highly recommend booking a table in advance, especially during peak tourist season. You can reserve through their website or platforms like ElTenedor.
2. Casa Lucio: Where Tradition Meets Excellence
Another legendary spot I couldn’t miss was Casa Lucio, famous for its simple yet exquisite dishes, particularly the huevos estrellados (broken eggs).
Location:
Address: Calle Cava Baja, 35, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Situated in the lively La Latina district, Casa Lucio is surrounded by tapas bars and charming narrow streets. It’s an ideal location if you’re planning to explore the area before or after your meal.
How to Get There:
I took the metro to the La Latina station, which is just a five-minute walk from the restaurant. It’s also within walking distance of the Royal Palace and other major attractions.
My Experience:
The moment I sat down, the friendly staff made me feel at home. I started with their signature dish, huevos estrellados. It’s a deceptively simple dish—fried eggs served over a bed of fried potatoes—but the quality of the ingredients made it extraordinary. The yolks were rich and golden, breaking perfectly over the crispy potatoes. For the main course, I opted for solomillo de ternera (beef tenderloin), which was cooked to perfection—juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The meal was hearty and satisfying, yet the ambiance remained laid-back and unpretentious.
Price Range:
Mains are priced around €20-€30, which is reasonable considering the quality of the food and the restaurant’s reputation.
Recommendation Rating:
9/10 – A true gem for anyone who appreciates simple, well-executed traditional dishes.
Reservations:
Due to its popularity, it’s best to reserve a table a few days in advance. You can book through their website or by phone.
3. Mercado de San Miguel: A Food Lover’s Paradise
While not a traditional restaurant, the Mercado de San Miguel is one of the best places to sample a variety of Spanish foods all under one roof.
Location:
Address: Plaza de San Miguel, S/N, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Located near Plaza Mayor, this iconic market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
How to Get There:
I walked here from Plaza Mayor, which took about five minutes. The market is also accessible by metro via the Sol station.
My Experience:
As soon as I entered the market, I was greeted by the intoxicating smells of freshly prepared food. The variety was overwhelming in the best way possible—there were stalls offering everything from seafood to sweets. I started with croquetas, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Next, I tried pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), which was tender and flavorful, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with paprika. I washed it all down with a glass of tinto de verano (red wine with lemon soda), a refreshing alternative to sangria. The market’s lively atmosphere and abundance of choices made it one of my favorite stops in Madrid.
Price Range:
Each small plate or snack is around €3-€10, making it easy to try a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
Recommendation Rating:
10/10 – A must-visit for foodies who want to sample a little bit of everything.
No Reservations Needed:
Just show up and enjoy the feast!
4. DiverXO: Madrid’s Only Three-Michelin-Star Restaurant
For those looking for a more avant-garde dining experience, DiverXO offers a culinary adventure like no other. It’s the only three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Madrid, known for its bold, experimental dishes.
Location:
Address: NH Collection Eurobuilding, Calle Padre Damián, 23, 28036 Madrid, Spain
This restaurant is located in the NH Collection Eurobuilding, slightly outside the city center, but easily reachable by public transport.
How to Get There:
I took the metro to the Cuzco station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the restaurant. Taxis are also a convenient option if you’re staying in the city center.
My Experience:
While I haven’t personally dined at DiverXO yet, it’s high on my list for my next trip to Madrid. From what I’ve heard from fellow travelers, the dining experience here is more like an immersive performance than a traditional meal. Chef Dabiz Muñoz is known for pushing the boundaries of what food can be, with creative dishes that challenge the senses. Some of the standout menu items include their famous dim sum and “the Iberian pig disguised as a lobster.” The presentation of each dish is artful, and the flavors are said to be both surprising and unforgettable.
Price Range:
Expect to pay around €250-€300 per person for the full tasting menu, making it a once-in-a-lifetime splurge for most.
Recommendation Rating:
10/10 – A must-visit for foodies seeking a cutting-edge culinary experience.
Reservations:
Reservations are essential and can be made through their official website. It’s best to book at least a month in advance.
5. Bodega de la Ardosa: Tapas and Tradition
If you’re looking for a more low-key but equally delicious experience, Bodega de la Ardosa is a traditional tapas bar that has been serving locals for over a century.
Location:
Address: Calle de Colón, 13, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Tucked away in the Malasaña district, this cozy bar is a great spot for a casual evening of tapas and drinks.
How to Get There:
I took the metro to Tribunal station, which is just a short walk from the bar. It’s also close to Gran Vía, so it’s easy to visit while exploring the city center.
My Experience:
The atmosphere here was relaxed and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists. I started with a glass of vermut (Spanish vermouth) on tap, which was rich and slightly bitter, the perfect aperitif. For tapas, I tried the tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet) and boquerones en vinagre (marinated anchovies), both of which were fresh and flavorful. The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were very reasonable, making it easy to sample a variety of dishes.
Price Range:
Tapas range from €3-€8, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Recommendation Rating:
8/10 – A fantastic spot for traditional tapas in a laid-back setting.
No Reservations Needed:
Just drop by, though it can get busy in the evenings, so arriving early is a good idea.
6. StreetXO: Street Food with a Twist
Another creation by Chef Dabiz Muñoz, StreetXO offers a more affordable and casual take on his signature experimental style.
Location:
Address: Calle de Serrano, 52, 28001 Madrid, Spain
Located in the gourmet section of El Corte Inglés on Calle Serrano, *
StreetXO* is perfect for those looking for a unique dining experience without the Michelin-star price tag.
How to Get There:
I took the metro to Serrano station, and the restaurant is located within the El Corte Inglés department store. It’s easy to find and conveniently located near high-end shopping streets.
My Experience:
The ambiance here was lively and modern, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action. I tried the steamed club sandwich with ricotta, fried quail egg, and chili mayo, which was an explosion of flavors in every bite. The combination of textures and bold spices made it stand out from any other sandwich I’ve ever had. I also loved the crispy pig’s ear with pickled jalapeños and spicy hoisin sauce—a playful take on street food with a gourmet twist.
Price Range:
Dishes are priced around €12-€20, making it a mid-range option for adventurous foodies.
Recommendation Rating:
9/10 – A fun and creative dining experience that’s more affordable than DiverXO but still offers Chef Muñoz’s unique flair.
No Reservations Needed:
It’s a walk-in restaurant, but there might be a wait during peak times.
Madrid is a city that truly knows how to celebrate food. Whether you’re dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or grabbing a quick bite at a local tapas bar, you’ll find that each meal is prepared with care, passion, and a love for quality ingredients. From the traditional to the experimental, there’s something here for every kind of foodie.