Madrid boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene, offering something for every taste. From traditional taverns to contemporary fine dining, the city has an exceptional selection of restaurants, including 32 Michelin-starred establishments. Given their popularity, it’s advisable to book in advance, as the best spots fill up quickly.
Below, we share some of our personal recommendations for enjoying Madrid’s gastronomy:
Our roots:
With Navarrese and Austrian heritage, we want to highlight restaurants that reflect the culinary traditions of these regions. From the vegetable-forward cuisine of Navarra to the refined flavors of Central Europe, these establishments capture the essence of our background.
La Manduca de Azagra (Price €€€): This restaurant brings the best of Navarrese cuisine to Madrid, focusing on seasonal vegetables from its own farm in Azagra, Navarra. Signature dishes include crispy artichokes, tender white asparagus, and roasted cristal peppers. The menu also features high-quality meats and fresh fish.
📍 Calle de Sagasta 14, 28004 Madrid
📞 +34 915 910 112
🌐 lamanducadeazagra.com
La Huerta de Tudela (Price €€): La Huerta de Tudela specialises in vegetable-based cuisine, bringing the best of Navarra’s seasonal produce to Madrid. Led by chef Ricardo Gil, the restaurant focuses on high-quality, market-fresh ingredients. Dishes such as poached artichokes, grilled seasonal vegetables, and flavorful stews showcase the natural richness of the ingredients.
📍 Calle del Prado 15, 28014 Madrid
📞 +34 914 204 418
🌐 lahuertadetudela.com
Horcher (Price €€€€): Established in 1904 in Berlin and relocated to Madrid in 1943, Horcher is a historic fine-dining establishment near Retiro Park. It is known for its Central European cuisine with Spanish influences. The menu features specialties like roe deer Stroganoff, Hungarian goulash, and Bresse pigeon with Périgord sauce, all complemented by an extensive and well-curated wine selection.
📍 Calle de Alfonso XII 6, 28014 Madrid
📞 +34 915 220 731 / +34 915 323 596
🌐 restaurantehorcher.com
Traditional Madrilene cuisine:
Madrid keeps its culinary traditions alive with iconic dishes served in historic establishments that have been feeding locals for generations.
Casa Lucio (Price €€€): Founded in 1974, Casa Lucio is one of Madrid’s most famous traditional restaurants. Known for its legendary huevos estrellados (fried eggs over crispy potatoes), it has become a must-visit spot for locals, politicians, and international celebrities. The menu also features Castilian garlic soup, croquettes, and grilled meats.
📍 Calle de la Cava Baja 35, 28005 Madrid
📞 +34 913 653 252
🌐 casalucio.es
Casa Salvador (Price €€): This historic Madrid eatery, established in 1941, has strong ties to the bullfighting world. The interior is decorated with memorabilia from decades of history, adding to its authentic charm. The kitchen specialises in Castilian dishes such as callos a la madrileña (Madrid-style tripe), oxtail stew, and battered hake.
📍 Calle de Barbieri 12, 28004 Madrid
📞 +34 915 214 524
La Ancha (Price €€): A family-owned restaurant with over a century of history, La Ancha is known for its straightforward, honest cuisine prepared with top-quality ingredients. Signature dishes include the famous "Armando" schnitzel, a golden-brown, perfectly crisp veal escalope, as well as hake cubes with squid sauce.
📍 Calle del Príncipe de Vergara 204, 28002 Madrid
📞 +34 915 638 977
Casa Ciriaco (Price €€): Founded in 1887, Casa Ciriaco preserves Madrid’s traditional culinary roots. The restaurant is renowned for its gallina en pepitoria (chicken in almond sauce), as well as roasted lamb and callos a la madrileña. The vintage decor and classic service make it a nostalgic experience for diners.
📍 Calle de Mayor 84, 28013 Madrid
📞 +34 915 480 620
🌐 casaciriaco.es
Seafood in Madrid:
Madrid may not be by the sea, but its seafood offer is second to none. Thanks to an exceptional distribution network, the city receives the freshest fish and shellfish from across Spain daily.
Casa Rafa (Price €€€): A classic seafood restaurant with a loyal clientele, Casa Rafa is known for impeccably prepared dishes, from "ensaladilla rusa" with ventresca to grilled octopus and fresh "percebes".
📍Calle de Narváez 68, 28009 Madrid
📞+34 915 731 087
🌐restauranterafa.es
El Pescador (Price €€€): El Pescador is a seafood lover’s dream, offering top-quality fish and shellfish, including red prawns from Dénia and wild turbot.
📍Calle de José Ortega y Gasset 75, 28006 Madrid
📞+34 914 011 936
🌐restauranteelpescador.com
Other Favourites:
PABÚ (Price €€€€): A contemporary restaurant offering sophisticated and flavorful dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu showcases creative combinations that have impressed diners and critics alike.
📍 Calle de Panamá 4, 28036 Madrid
📞 +34 910 883 899
🌐 pabu.es
Sacha (Price €€€): A well-regarded Spanish bistro known for its cozy atmosphere and hand-picked selection of wines. A favorite among locals who appreciate quality dining in an intimate setting.
📍 Calle de Juan Hurtado de Mendoza 11, 28036 Madrid
📞 +34 913 455 952
🌐 sacharestaurante.com
Treze Restaurante & Bar (Price €€): Known for its excellent service and focus on seasonal game dishes, as well as standout tapas like torreznos, albóndigas, and Spanish omelet.
📍 Calle del General Pardiñas 34, 28001 Madrid
📞 +34 915 410 717
🌐 treze.es
Lakasa (Price €€€): A restaurant that offers an ever-changing seasonal menu, with options for half portions to allow for more variety when dining.
📍 Plaza del Descubridor Diego de Ordás 1, 28003 Madrid
📞 +34 915 338 715
🌐 lakasa.es
Los 33 (Price €€): A lively restaurant specialising in grilled meats, featuring an ambiance enhanced by vinyl records and a carefully curated music selection.
📍 Plaza de las Salesas 9, 28004 Madrid
📞 +34 910 883 280
🌐 los33madrid.com
Barracuda MX (Price €€): Barracuda MX is a vibrant restaurant in Madrid that brings the flavors of Mexico's Pacific coast to the city. The establishment offers a wide cocktail menu and a food menu that, while concise, delivers quality dishes.
📍 Calle de Valenzuela 7, 28014 Madrid, Spain
📞 +34 910 88 38 99
🌐 barracudamx.com
La Catapa (Price €€): La Catapa is a traditional Spanish tavern located near Retiro Park. Known for its authentic atmosphere, it offers a menu featuring Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine, including fresh seafood, meats, and seasonal dishes. The establishment is praised for its attentive service and cozy ambiance.
📍 Calle Menorca 14, 28009 Madrid, Spain
📞 +34 915 74 26 15
🌐 tabernalacatapa.eatbu.com
Bar H Emblemático (Price €€): Bar H Emblemático offers traditional Spanish tapas in a welcoming setting. The menu includes classics like croquetas, torreznos, ensaladilla, bravas, and calamares. Guests appreciate the quality of the dishes and the attentive service, making it a popular spot for casual dining and enjoying authentic Spanish flavors.
📍 Calle de Hermosilla 101, 28006 Madrid, Spain
📞 +34 914 35 93 68
La Maruca (Price €€): Contemporary take on traditional Cantabrian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Notable offerings include their acclaimed tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette), crispy calamari, and an array of fresh seafood options.
📍 Calle de Velázquez 54, 28001 Madrid, Spain
📞 +34 917 814 969
🌐 restaurantelamaruca.com
Grupo Paraguas: A Benchmark in Madrid’s Dining Scene:
Grupo Paraguas, founded by Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, is one of the most successful and dynamic hospitality groups in the world. Known for its lively atmosphere, high-quality cuisine, and stylish locations, the group's restaurants have become some of the most sought-after dining spots in the city. In 2016, the group sold 40% of its stake for €70 million, valuing the company at approximately €180 million. Given its prominence, it deserves a dedicated section in our selection.
Below are some of its most renowned establishments:
El Paraguas (Price €€€): Located in Madrid’s upscale Salamanca district, El Paraguas is the flagship restaurant of the group. Specialising in refined Asturian cuisine, it offers an elegant yet cozy atmosphere with impeccable service and an outstanding wine selection. A must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience.
Ten con Ten (Price €€€): Ten con Ten, situated on Calle Ayala, is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and international cuisine with Spanish influences. With a chic and modern interior, it has become a social hotspot for both locals and visitors looking for an energetic and stylish setting.
Amazónico (Price €€€): Amazónico transports diners to a tropical rainforest with its lush decor and diverse culinary influences from around the world. The menu features dishes inspired by Latin American, Asian, and Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant also offers live music, including jazz performances, adding to its vibrant ambiance.
Aarde (Price €€€): Located in Plaza de la Independencia, Aarde presents a menu inspired by African flavors, combined with Mediterranean and international touches. The restaurant focuses on sustainability, offering fresh, organic ingredients in an earthy and elegant setting.
Numa Pompilio (Price €€€): Numa Pompilio is Grupo Paraguas' take on Italian fine dining. The beautifully decorated space evokes a grand Italian villa, and the menu offers classic dishes made with premium ingredients. Its romantic and sophisticated ambiance makes it a great choice for special occasions.
The Library (New Wine Bar in Serrano): The group's latest venture, Origen, is a stylish wine bar located in the Serrano area. It offers an extensive selection of Spanish and international wines, paired with a curated menu of small plates and gourmet bites. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
Grupo Paraguas continues to set the standard for high-end dining in Madrid, with each of its restaurants offering a unique and memorable experience.
Bars & Taverns:
Madrid’s vibrant social scene is centered around its bars and taverns, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy classic tapas, wines, and craft cocktails. These spots are ideal for experiencing the city’s relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
Bodega La Ardosa (Price €): Established in 1892, Bodega La Ardosa is one of Madrid’s most historic taverns. Its renowned Spanish omelet, confit artichokes, and anchovy toasts make it a must-visit.
📍 Calle de Colón 13, 28004 Madrid
📞 +34 915 214 979
La Venencia (Price €): A sherry bar frozen in time, La Venencia serves only sherry wines alongside simple tapas. Its strict no-photo policy preserves the authentic atmosphere.
📍Calle de Echegaray 7, 28014 Madrid
📞 +34 914 297 313
El Lateral (Price €): With several locations across Madrid, including Velázquez, Fuencarral, and Castellana, El Lateral is a favorite choice for both casual lunches and group dinners. The menu features a wide selection of tapas and small plates. The restaurant also offers a well-curated selection of wines and cocktails.
Markets of Madrid:
Madrid’s food markets are more than just places to buy fresh produce—they are culinary destinations in their own right. Whether you're seeking gourmet tapas, high-quality ingredients, or a lively local atmosphere, these markets are must-visit spots for food lovers.
Mercado de San Miguel: The Mercado de San Miguel is one of Madrid’s most iconic gastronomic destinations, attracting both locals and visitors eager to experience the best of Spanish cuisine in a vibrant and historic setting. Located just steps away from Plaza Mayor, this beautifully restored iron-and-glass market, originally built in 1916, has evolved into a gourmet food hall showcasing Spain’s rich culinary traditions. Unlike traditional fresh-produce markets, San Miguel focuses on ready-to-eat specialties, offering a curated selection of food stalls featuring high-quality tapas, seafood, Iberian ham, cheeses, wines, and sweets from different regions of Spain. Visitors can savor delicacies such as Galician oysters, Basque pintxos, Asturian cheeses, and Andalusian fried fish, all in one place.
Mercado de la Paz: The Mercado de la Paz, located in the heart of Madrid’s elegant Salamanca district, is one of the city's most authentic and historic markets. Founded in 1882, it has retained its traditional charm while adapting to modern tastes, making it a favorite among both locals and food enthusiasts. Unlike the more tourist-oriented markets, Mercado de la Paz functions as a true neighborhood market, offering a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and gourmet products. Many of Madrid’s top chefs source their ingredients here, thanks to its exceptional quality and variety. Beyond fresh groceries, the market is also home to a selection of excellent food stalls and small restaurants, where visitors can enjoy freshly prepared meals. One of its most famous spots is Casa Dani, known for serving one of the best tortillas de patatas (Spanish omeletts) in the city. Other stalls specialise in high-quality jamón ibérico, cheeses, international delicacies, and organic products.