The 38 Must-Try Restaurants in Madrid

This restaurant is the kind of place where you’d want to be a regular, dining here weekly and leaving in the early hours. It epitomizes elevated comfort food with its unique “faux” ravioli filled with txangurro (king crab), marinated oysters, and bone marrow paired with sirloin, all complemented by plenty of wine. If you see owner Sacha Hormaechea welcoming guests, don’t miss the chance to shake his hand; he’s quite the character.

Imagine Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Alice in Wonderland, and a blend of dreams and nightmares — this is the creative essence chef David Muñoz, acclaimed as Madrid’s top chef, brings to the city’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant. Located in the Eurobuilding hotel, DiverXO defies the limits of avant-garde cuisine through two tasting menus designed to astonish diners with dishes that resemble art in both appearance and flavor. Be sure to plan ahead to secure a reservation.

Some of Spain's best seafood comes at a premium, but the experience is truly worthwhile, especially in one of Madrid's most stunning dining spaces. Bathed in natural light, patrons can choose from an extensive wine list featuring over a thousand options to pair with a superb selection of fish and shellfish, including baby eel, hake cheeks, croaker, shrimp, cockles, and octopus — just to name a few. The family-run Pescaderías Coruñesas, which operates Desde 1911, has upheld a strong fishing legacy since — you guessed it — 1911.

It’s inspiring to witness entrepreneurs like Sungeun Pei thrive. At Casa Pei, she showcases a menu influenced by her Korean and Chinese heritage. Her parents expertly craft the wontons, a dish that previously lacked recognition in Madrid, served with a sweet and spicy soy sauce. Don’t miss the excellent dumplings and the fresh spring roll salad. Pei also sources specialty coffee from Toma Café and delightful cakes from the nearby La Deseada Coffee.

Owner Javier Bonet is the creative force behind this Mytoury that honors premium ingredients sourced from local markets. Meals are presented on paper-lined metal trays at a long counter and high tables. The original venue on Calle de Ponzano remains a lively dining hotspot, with another innovative location on Virgen de los Peligros near Puerta del Sol. Some signature dishes, like the Rolex — featuring egg yolk, pancetta, foie mi cuit, sauternes, and truffle, which the server flambés at your table — are staples of the menu, adding an interactive twist to the experience.

Madrid's markets are transforming. To entice a younger crowd and draw them away from supermarkets, many markets are adding gastropubs alongside traditional fruit, meat, and dairy vendors. One such example is Tripea, the culinary venture of chef Roberto Martínez Foronda, located in Mercado de Vallehermoso. His stall features a small open kitchen and a communal table where he invites diners to experience a fusion of Spanish, Asian, and Latin flavors. Through a la carte options and a meticulously crafted tasting menu, Foronda serves up shared plates bursting with excitement, innovation, and bold tastes.

The line outside this Chamberí bakery speaks volumes about its popularity. Owners Timi Argyelan and Joaquín Escrivá discovered their love for baking while living in Vienna and Hungary. Now, they offer a daily selection of Nordic-style breads, plum galettes, potato and olive focaccias, and raspberry-lemon Danishes. For a quieter experience, visit around 2 or 3 p.m. on a weekday to secure a window seat. Otherwise, drop by anytime for pastries and coffee sourced from the nearby Toma Café 2 to enjoy in the nearby Plaza de Olavide.

At Formaje, Clara Diez elevates artisan dairy producers to center stage in her cheese shop in the Chamberí district. She has successfully introduced numerous brands to the city's culinary scene, featuring them in some of the top restaurants and bars while reviving interest in forgotten aspects of the cheese trade. A visit might include award-winning Olavidia goat cheese, Galician queixo do pais, Hornkase from Germany, and Spain's beloved manchego sourced from Castilla-La Mancha.

While Madrid is famous for its century-old taverns, Bar Trafalgar manages to embody that classic spirit with a modern twist. Since its opening in 2022 in the Chamberí neighborhood, it has become a go-to spot for friends to gather over cold draft beers or classic cocktails. The bar attracts a vibrant mix of mature creatives and entrepreneurs after work, all drawn to delicious bravas dishes (including a unique mille-feuille of potatoes) and popular toasts topped with smoked butter and anchovies. For the best experience, grab a seat at the bar to soak in the lively atmosphere.

While cheesecake is often linked to the Basque Country, many Madrileños, like Alex Cordobés, have a deep love for this iconic dessert. After transitioning from his career as a physiotherapist, Cordobés began selling cheesecake for takeout, ultimately establishing this delightful shop in the Salamanca neighborhood. His cakes are rich and creamy, resting on a perfectly toasted butter cookie base that enhances the flavors through the Maillard reaction. The treats are displayed in his beautiful store like exquisite works of art.

Chef David Muñoz, who also operates the acclaimed three-Michelin-star DiverXO, runs this vibrant Mytoury within the El Corte Inglés Serrano department store. Expect long lines at StreetXo—sometimes up to two hours—so arrive early; the wait is definitely justified. The menu takes diners on a culinary adventure through Asia and Latin America, featuring bold and adventurous flavors. The atmosphere is lively, with chefs preparing dishes right in front of you. Don’t miss the chili crab and the celebrated club sandwich, which is actually a steamed pork bun topped with a fried quail egg—some of the most thrilling bites in Madrid.

While some may find tortilla española overrated, for locals, it's a beloved comfort food. This dish is widely available in Madrid, but only a select few bars and restaurants prepare the potato omelet to perfection. For that experience, visit Casa Dani, a family-run establishment that makes over 200 tortillas daily. Known as tortilla de patatas, their version is cherished for its crispy exterior and creamy interior. Lunchtime can get crowded, so aim for around 11 a.m. to enjoy a slice with your café con leche without the hassle of waiting. While you're there, don’t miss the callos a la Madrileña (Madrid-style veal tripe) as well.

The Cuenllas family established a grocery store near Templo de Debod in the late 1930s, and it has since become a Madrid institution due to its dedication to high-quality products. Fernando Cuenllas, the third-generation representative, expanded the business in 2021, showcasing his favorite items at this wine bar and delicatessen in the Salesas neighborhood. The shop offers around 75 different wines from across Europe and Spain, perfect for a souvenir or to enjoy on the spot, paired with anchovies from Santoña, cured meats, gourmet canned goods, and a unique hot dog that replaces the sausage with artichoke and ham.

Álex Marugán initially launched his restaurant in a market in the Goya neighborhood before relocating to a larger, more personalized venue nearby. While the restaurant remains small and casual, it has gained a touch of refinement. The menu showcases Spanish classics alongside some global influences. Be sure to try the callos (tripe) a la Madrileña, the osso buco taco with pibil, and the delicious torreznos (thick, juicy bacon), but always save room for seasonal dishes like marinated rabbit or tear peas with pil pil.

Considered one of the most stunning pastry shops in Madrid, La Duquesita is rich in history as well. With over a century of tradition, it sets the standard for the city’s classic baked goods. After closing in 2015, pastry chef Oriol Balaguer revitalized and expanded the shop. Be sure to try the chocolate palmera, one of the finest croissants in the city, or indulge in the festive panettone.

Owners Carmen Aldi, José Certruchas, and Jesús Encinas made the bold choice to step away from the high-end dining scene to establish La Llorería, a place where they can operate on their own terms. This trio has created a space in the Malasaña neighborhood that offers exceptional dishes without the hefty prices or strict dress codes typical of fine dining. Their small, laid-back restaurant features a central bar, cozy tables, and a large chalkboard displaying daily specials. Unique offerings like miso tomatoes and cauliflower with bacon and squid have attracted a loyal following, making reservations essential.

Since its debut in late 2021, Comparte Bistró has been charming locals, media, and food enthusiasts alike. Chef Mario Sánchez brings the vibrant flavors of his native Cádiz to the table, infused with elements of French cuisine. Highlights include chicharrón paired with cantal cheese and semi-dried tomatoes, crispy gizzards served with creamy corn and pepper sauce, and a delectable steak tartare accompanied by a croissant and béarnaise sauce.

During the fall, when wild mushrooms are in season, El Cisne Azul is the go-to spot. This restaurant specializes in various mushroom types found throughout Spain, preparing them in straightforward ways that highlight their natural flavors. Must-try dishes include chanterelles paired with a fried egg, squash blossoms seasoned with wine salt and truffle oil, boletus mushrooms accompanied by torta del casar cheese, and king trumpet mushrooms sautéed with garlic. While the owners run another establishment nearby, the original remains a favorite among loyal patrons and long-time staff.

Veal tripe, trotters, and snout; fried pig’s face; an omelet made with brains or a salad of brined tongue. Offal has long held a cherished place in Spanish cuisine, but many traditional dishes fell out of favor until recently. Chef Javi Estévez, who gained recognition on Spain’s Top Chef in 2013, filled this gap in the culinary landscape by opening his one-Michelin-star restaurant. He revives nostalgic flavors with modern techniques, preparing these 'adventurous' meats in ways that appeal to a wide audience.

Stepping into this charming casa de comidas feels like a journey back in time. Originally established in 1890 as a wine and liquor shop, it transformed in the 1980s to allow patrons to enjoy meals alongside their beverages. Over the years, the restaurant has become a hub for leftist organizers, earning it the nickname El Comunista, while also serving as a gathering place for guitar enthusiasts, as the current owner's great uncle once played there. Today, artists and bohemians gather for unique dishes and stews rarely found on modern menus, like migas with grapes and eggs, squid in its ink with rice, or rabbit in tomato sauce.

Initially debuting as a casual street food spot in Chueca, this restaurant has revealed its vibrant personality through a playful, globe-trotting menu that navigates the culinary landscapes of Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Led by Chef Rafael Bergamo and his young team, the atmosphere remains laid-back, yet each dish is deserving of acclaim. Savor French oysters in a Nikkei dressing, Beijing duck croquettes, crispy wontons with honeyed pastor and pineapple mojito, or octopus tikka masala with a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

On the upper level of Angelita, Chef David Villalón serves exquisite natural wines alongside a seasonal menu featuring the city's finest tomato salad. However, the real excitement unfolds downstairs with his brother, bartender Mario Villalón, who operates a cocktail laboratory reminiscent of a mad scientist's workshop. With a focus on sustainability and innovative techniques, Mario crafts impeccably balanced drinks using experimental ingredients, chilling them so they don’t need ice.

Madrid's vibrant cocktail scene owes much to Del Diego, a renowned bar featuring art deco decor and exceptional service, conveniently located near Gran Vía and the Chueca neighborhood. Though its founder, Fernando del Diego, passed away in 2016, his legacy continues through his two sons, who were often by his side at the bar. Together, they warmly welcome locals, tourists, celebrities, and restaurateurs alike, serving a menu of timeless cocktails that consistently impress.

After achieving a Michelin star at Punto MX, chef Roberto Ruiz chose to close the restaurant during the pandemic, moving away from tasting menus. His new, more relaxed venture, Barracuda, showcases the essence of haute Mexican cuisine in Spain, highlighting the vibrant flavors from the 5,000 miles of the Mexican Pacific coastline. Ruiz expertly blends traditional Mexican recipes with local ingredients, creating standout dishes like aguachiles, ceviches, and sea bass a la talla, alongside innovative options such as wagyu memelas and bone marrow served with red tuna tostadas. To top it off, a tequila and mezcal cart roams around the tables, enhancing the dining experience.

In Madrid, aperitivo hour is a cherished tradition where friends and family gather at bars to savor vermouth and pickled snacks. Hermanos Vinagre breathes new life into this custom with a stylish bar designed by Cristina Carullo, swapping out the typical decor for a refined aesthetic. Guests enjoy cañas and vermouths alongside delightful bites like gildas, cockles with chili sauce, and smoked brine mussels or ox chorizo. This contemporary approach has struck a chord with locals, prompting the owners to open a second venue in Chueca and a third in Chamberí.

Adorned with celebrity photos and situated just steps from Puerta del Sol, Chocolatería San Ginés is the go-to destination for those craving indulgent churros con chocolate. Their churros and thicker porras are crafted from a simple mix of flour, water, and salt, lightly dusted with sugar before being dipped in rich chocolate. Open around the clock, this beloved spot becomes a bustling breakfast haven for night owls around 6 a.m.

While younger audiences might recognize Lhardy from C. Tangana’s music video for 'Comerte Entera,' this historic restaurant has been serving classic Spanish cuisine with a French twist since 1839. Nestled right next to Puerta del Sol, it occupies a central place both geographically and culturally in Madrid. Now under the ownership of Pescaderías Coruñesas, one of Spain's premier seafood suppliers, Lhardy maintains its traditional charm: the iconic Madrileñian stew remains elegantly presented, consomme is still served in a gleaming silver samovar, croquettes are stuffed with a hearty puchero (a chickpea, vegetable, and meat stew), and the oxtail is paired with Robuchon-style mashed potatoes and a souffle that’s sure to catch eyes on Instagram.

Sherry represents the essence of Spain, and this historic bar is the perfect spot to savor it. Once a favorite of Hemingway, La Venencia enforces a strict no-photos and no-tipping policy. Legend has it that the photo ban originated during the Franco regime, when spies would capture their adversaries on film, while the no-tipping rule reflects the bar's Republican principles. The bartenders exclusively serve sherry—don’t bother requesting soda, water, beer, or wine as they aren't available—alongside delicious tapas such as salted tuna, Campo Real olives, cheese, and anchovies. Fino, manzanilla, palo cortado, amontillado, and oloroso harmonize beautifully with the retro decor, the black cat meandering among the tables, and the staff who diligently track your drinks by noting them in chalk on the bar counter.

Located in the vibrant Literary Quarter, Chuka stands out as the city's premier ramen bar. Helmed by American chef John Husby, a former Momofuku chef in New York, the menu is a celebration of umami with seasonal and daily specials. Begin your meal with delicious baos stuffed with options like Korean fried chicken, soft shell crab, and pork belly. Next, enjoy the rotating selection of three ramen types, including a brothless choice. Be sure to sample the remarkable eggplant mapo, “fake” veal nigiri (served on bread instead of rice), and the pluma ibérica char siu. Reservations are highly recommended; while walk-ins are permitted, finding a seat can be a challenge.

Renowned bartender Diego Cabrera's cocktail haven, Salmon Guru, is a go-to spot for the city's chefs, mixologists, and cocktail enthusiasts. It's an ideal place to swing by before or after enjoying a meal at nearby Chuka Ramen or La Venencia. The lively staff presents a menu filled with creative concoctions, such as the Mano de Dios, a twist on the classic fernet cola featuring lacto-fermented strawberry and balsamic vinegar, alongside the crowd-pleaser Chipotle Chillón, crafted with mezcal, lemon juice, chipotle syrup, and a mist of absinthe.

Exploring the bars in the city center can be quite a task, but here's a tip: seek out those that have stood the test of time and steer clear of chain restaurants serving reheated paella. Tucked away in the narrow streets around Plaza Mayor, you’ll find a small, bustling bar called Casa Revuelta. Squeeze in at the bar and order a tajada de bacalao (fried cod) along with a glass of house vermouth on tap.

Finding Canary Islands cuisine in Madrid can be quite a challenge, but Gofio in the Literary Quarter showcases the islands beautifully. This intimate yet remarkable restaurant offers a tasting menu that highlights the authentic flavors of the archipelago, steering clear of clichés. The chefs creatively utilize seasonal ingredients from the islands, infusing the same vibrant energy into their wine selection and desserts. Dining at Gofio is a breathtaking journey that reveals Spain's culinary diversity beyond just paella and sangria.

Flamenco, dining, and entertainment might seem like a cliché, but a visit to the world-renowned tablao is unforgettable. Guests experience the authentic essence of flamenco through a stunning show that changes weekly, while savoring chef David García’s Michelin-starred tasting menu inspired by Basque traditions — all within an intimate setting of just four tables. For drinks, let David Ayuso, the restaurant’s sommelier and sherry connoisseur, recommend the perfect pairings.

A local gem, La Sanabresa is essential for experiencing traditional dishes reminiscent of home-cooked meals, just like grandma used to make. With only three servers handling the bustling dining room filled with neighbors, construction workers, and shop owners, the atmosphere is lively. The menu boasts over 30 comforting dishes at unbeatable prices. Popular choices include ensaladilla rusa (potato salad), rabo de toro (braised oxtails), and succulent pork chops. Reservations are not taken.

When a beloved small restaurant opens a second spot (Toguita) to meet the demand from loyal patrons, you know they’re doing something right. Toga, located in the La Latina neighborhood, has made a name for itself with its unique dish of noodles topped with kimchi mayo and raw red tuna, which diners adore. The diverse menu creatively blends Nikkei, Latin American, and Japanese influences, featuring items like sea bass tiradito with garlic and lime mayo and crunchy chile chicken with aioli.

Santurce is renowned for its grilled sardines and Padrón peppers from Galicia. This establishment is far from pretentious — it’s a delightful neighborhood tavern where the experience involves simply finding a seat at the bar, ordering caña after caña, and feasting on fish as if you were marooned on a deserted island. With unbeatable prices, dinner includes a vibrant cooking display, watching the chefs grill sardines right in front of you. Sundays are especially lively, as they coincide with the bustling Rastro market nearby.

In Madrid, olives, brined fish, and vermouth are staples of the aperitif scene, yet it's surprisingly challenging to find a venue that truly celebrates them. La Gildería, located in the La Latina district near the Rastro market, pays tribute to delicacies like gildas: olive skewers named after the classic Rita Hayworth film. The menu also features Murcia's take on ensaladilla rusa (potato salad), canned mussels and razor clams, as well as an octopus sandwich slathered in Basque chile pepper mayo. Each dish is paired with vermouth sourced from regions like Galicia and Cataluña, served either on the rocks or with a hint of gin.

While many restaurants in the city center serve traditional Spanish stews, none can rival Cruz Blanca Vallecas. This independent Mytoury, distinct from the chain sharing its name, has garnered every accolade for its exquisite cocido Madrileño (Madrid-style chickpea and meat stew), callos (veal tripe), and fabada (Asturian bean stew), all meticulously crafted by chef-owner Antonio Cosmen over the past decade. Be sure to reserve your table months in advance.