The cuisine and food scene in Madrid
Madrid, being a truly global city, caters to the diverse taste buds of expats with an extensive array of culinary options. From its rich traditional gastronomy to authentic regional delights across Spain, the city presents a wide range of dining experiences. Moreover, new residents will be delighted to discover that Madrid boasts many international restaurants, ensuring you can find any specific cuisine you want.
Good to know:
Expats may find Madrid's dining schedule very different from what they're used to. Read a bit more about eating and meal times before setting out on your culinary adventures in Madrid.
Food scene in Madrid
One of the highlights of the food scene in Madrid is its tapas culture. Tapas are small plates of delicious food meant to be shared amongst friends while enjoying a round of drinks. From traditional options like patatas bravas (crispy fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce) and jamón ibérico (cured ham) to more innovative creations, there is something to suit every palate.
For those looking to indulge in a hearty meal, Madrid is home to numerous traditional restaurants. Here, you can savor classic dishes, such as cocido madrileño (a stew made with chickpeas, vegetables and various types of meat) and rabo de toro (oxtail stewed in red wine), which are sure to leave you longing for more.
If you're searching for modern and innovative gastronomic experiences, the Spanish capital boasts several Michelin-star restaurants that push the boundaries of flavor and presentation. These establishments elevate Spanish cuisine to new levels, offering creative dishes combining traditional flavors and innovative techniques.
Popular dishes in Madrid
When it comes to Madrid's most popular dishes, every local will have their own view of what's best and where to get it. However, there are a few dishes that are a must while in Madrid.
Bocadillo de calamares is a traditional sandwich made up of a long, white roll stuffed with fried rings of squid. It's a common snack or lunch item and is found in the traditional bars and cafes that ring Plaza Mayor.
Cochinillo, or suckling pig, is a delicacy in Madrid, though it originates from nearby Segovia. It's slow-cooked over several hours, leaving the skin crispy and the meat very tender. One of the places you can get suckling pig is Casa Botín, which is the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records.
Churros with hot chocolate is a popular afternoon snack, but you can eat these chewy sticks of fried dough any time of day. They are served plain, so you can dip them in the thick hot chocolate that comes on the side. One of the most popular places for churros and chocolate is San Gines.
Huevos rotos or broken eggs is a plate of chips topped with fried eggs and either Spanish ham (jamón) or sausage (chorizo). It's a shared plate and when it's served, make sure you cut the eggs so the runny yolk drizzles over the chips. Most every bar serves huevos rotos but Casa Lucio is one of the go-to places for this Madrid classic.
Tortilla (Spanish omelette) is a simple dish of egg and thinly sliced potato. While it sounds simple, every restaurant does it their own way. Casa de la Tortilla is a great choice for the traditional preparation while Pez Tortilla offers modern twists on this classic dish.
Best restaurants
If you're looking for traditional dining in Madrid, options are endless. Wood-paneled cafes with a fixed menu or the classic dishes above can be found in every Madrid neighborhood. For something upscale, try Celso y Manolo, a trendy tapas restaurant or Fismuler for a delicious modern take on classic dishes.
For many foodies, the Michelin Guide is a go-to list to find incredible restaurants with high-quality and exciting cuisines. If you like fine dining, Madrid has numerous Michelin-starred restaurants to amuse your palate, including the whimsical and creative three-star DiverXO.
Don't discount food markets since these are great places for exciting food. While it is touristy, Mercado de San Miguel is a beautiful glass building filled with traditional things like croquettes and local olives but also fresh oysters and burrata cheese. Spots like Mercado Barceló and Mercado de San Antón have a more local vibe and offer a mix of traditional tapas alongside sushi and fusion cuisine.
If you're looking for something other than Spanish food, Madrid has more than its share of international restaurants. The Lavapiés district is known for Indian and North African cuisine. Mercado de Mostenses has a stunning variety of Latin American food stalls as well as specialty Asian products.
Useful links:
Michelin Guide restaurants Madrid
Food and Drink | Official tourism website
Gourmet Markets and Gastronomic Spaces | Official tourism website (esmadrid.com)
