Whether you’re standing elbow-to-elbow with the city’s residents eating traditional tapas in a casual tavern or indulging in innovative contemporary Spanish cuisine in a stylish setting, dining out in Madrid isn’t just about eating; it’s a social experience. With more than 3,000 restaurants and an abundance of local, high-quality ingredients, the city has something to satisfy every palate and budget. Read on for a list that will lead you to some of Madrid’s best croquettes, pintxos, tortillas, torrijas, and more.
Restaurante Haches
Located in the vibrant and sophisticated Salamanca neighborhood, Restaurante Haches beckons with its promise of an exceptional culinary journey. This establishment is dedicated to presenting the very best of Spanish cuisine, with a delightful twist. The chefs here are passionate about sourcing local ingredients, ensuring that each dish is bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors. But the culinary vision doesn’t stop there; Restaurante Haches also embraces global influences, incorporating exciting and innovative techniques to create a truly unique dining experience. Prepare your palate for a symphony of tastes, where traditional Spanish fare meets modern gastronomy.
To begin your gastronomic adventure at Restaurante Haches, consider the delectable croquettes. You’re given a choice between the classic, traditional croquettes or the tantalizing garlic prawns croquettes, each offering a distinct and satisfying start to your meal. For those seeking a more adventurous appetizer, the candied artichokes with foie gras are an absolute must-try, a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that will leave you craving more. Another popular choice for the first course is the boldly-flavored Stilton cheese souffle, a light and airy delight that packs a serious punch of flavor. The souffle is prepared with the highest quality Stilton cheese, ensuring a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Moving on to the main course, Restaurante Haches offers a tempting array of steak and seafood dishes, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Seafood lovers will be particularly drawn to the baby squid, cooked to absolute perfection, tender and flavorful. Meat enthusiasts can indulge in the well-seasoned “sirloin in salt,” a succulent cut of beef that is expertly seasoned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Another star of the main course selection is the juicy turbot with cava spice and roasted eggplant, a symphony of flavors and textures that showcases the chef’s culinary prowess. The turbot is incredibly fresh and flaky, perfectly complemented by the subtle spice of the cava and the earthy sweetness of the roasted eggplant.
Don’t even think about skipping dessert at Restaurante Haches! Make sure you save some room for the delightful torrijas. These are pieces of sweet fried bread, prepared in a manner akin to French toast. The torrijas are a highlight here, a sweet and comforting end to your meal that will leave you feeling completely satisfied.
There’s truly not a bad seat to be found in this establishment. During the warmer months of summer, you have the option to dine al fresco on the charming terrace, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, during the colder months, you can cozy up inside the stylish and inviting interior. The restaurant itself is relatively small, which adds to its intimate and charming ambiance. However, it is worth noting that locals in Madrid tend to eat later in the evening. Therefore, if you wish to beat the lunch or dinner rush and secure your preferred dining time, it is highly recommended that you reserve a table for an earlier hour.
Calle de Jose Ortega y Gasset 79
El Pinchazo Cooking Bar
From the moment you step inside El Pinchazo Cooking Bar, you will be greeted by warm smiles and a friendly vibe that will instantly put you at ease. And this welcoming atmosphere is precisely what the two amigos who created this delightful restaurant envisioned: a place where people could come together to enjoy good food and drinks in good company. The focus is on creating a relaxed and convivial environment where guests can unwind and savor the moment.
Don’t let the understated wooden furnishings fool you into thinking this is just another casual eatery. While the ambiance at El Pinchazo is undeniably unpretentious and the prices are surprisingly affordable, the food served here is anything but ordinary. The culinary offerings are elevated, showcasing the chef’s skill and passion for creating innovative and flavorful dishes. The emphasis is on quality ingredients and creative presentation, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Nestled in the heart of the Embajadores neighborhood, near the city’s historical center, El Pinchazo serves up a tempting array of traditional Spanish cuisine with a creative international touch. This unique culinary fusion is a direct result of the chef’s previous experience working in Michelin-starred restaurants, where they honed their skills and developed a passion for pushing the boundaries of traditional cuisine. The chef seamlessly blends classic Spanish flavors with global influences, creating dishes that are both familiar and excitingly new.
Be sure to try the Spanish truffle salad, a modern twist on a traditional potato salad that is finished with a drizzle of fragrant truffle oil. This simple yet elegant dish is a testament to the power of quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The low-temperature oxtail is also an absolute must-try. This typical dish of Madrid, where bullfighting culture is deeply rooted, is a true culinary masterpiece. The flavors of the oxtail dish change throughout the year, depending on the availability of fresh ingredients and what is best suited to the current season. For example, in the autumn months, the oxtail is often prepared with a rich and comforting chestnut sauce, adding a touch of seasonal warmth to the dish.
The menu offerings at El Pinchazo vary throughout the week, with typical Madrid dishes featured Monday through Thursday. This allows the chefs to showcase the diverse culinary heritage of the region and to highlight seasonal specialties. If you’d like to try a truly authentic Madrid stew, be sure to dine at El Pinchazo on a Thursday. This hearty and flavorful stew is a true taste of Madrid and is a perfect way to experience the city’s rich culinary traditions.
Calle de Gargantilla 9
Casa Macareno
For those seeking an authentic and unforgettable Spanish tavern tapas experience, look no further than Casa Macareno, ideally located in the vibrant and bohemian Malasaña neighborhood. This charming establishment offers a true taste of traditional Spain, with a focus on quality ingredients, exceptional service, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Casa Macareno is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where friends and family can come together to share good food, good wine, and good times.
While the restaurant has undergone a loving restoration since it was first established as a bodega in the 1920s, the original charm and character of the space have been carefully preserved. The colorful mosaic tiles at the entrance, which are a testament to the building’s history, remain a focal point and create a welcoming and inviting ambiance. The focus on traditional Spanish cuisine and the commitment to providing exceptional service have also remained constant, ensuring that every guest feels like they are part of the Casa Macareno family.
Gather your friends and prepare to share a delightful assortment of small plates, each bursting with authentic Spanish flavors. Indulge in the finest Iberian ham, melt-in-your-mouth croquettes, and the ever-popular patatas bravas (sauteed potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce). Sample an array of delectable pickles and cheeses, and don’t miss the opportunity to try the classic huevos rotos (a fried egg served over chorizo or ham and fried potatoes). All of these delicious tapas are best enjoyed while seated in the lively bar area, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the company of your companions.
In addition to the traditional tapas offerings, Casa Macareno also offers a selection of contemporary creations, showcasing the chef’s creativity and culinary innovation. Be sure to sample some of these modern interpretations of classic Spanish dishes, such as the glazed artichokes and the sea bream crudo. While Casa Macareno is renowned for its tapas, the menu also boasts a selection of traditional main courses, including the mouthwatering carrillera Iberica (braised pork cheeks) and the perfectly grilled cod. For a truly authentic experience, be sure to ask about their Menu del Dia for daily specials, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef’s daily inspiration.
Casa Macareno is an exceptionally popular spot, and for good reason. To avoid disappointment and ensure that you secure a table, reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak hours. Plan ahead and book your table in advance to guarantee that you can experience the magic of Casa Macareno for yourself.
Calle San Vicente Ferrer 44
Juana La Loca
Step into a world of sophisticated elegance at Juana La Loca, where the chic black and white decor, accented with sleek lines and subtle dashes of gold, sets a tone that is both refined and inviting. The restaurant’s ambiance is carefully curated to create a sense of understated luxury, while the friendly and attentive service ensures that every guest feels relaxed and welcomed.
Established in 2001, this family-run restaurant, which is situated in the heart of the lively La Latina neighborhood, has become a beloved institution, renowned for its exceptional pintxo. The word “pintxo” (meaning “spike” in Spanish) refers to a type of finger food that is commonly found in the northern Basque region of Spain. These delightful snacks are typically served with a skewer or toothpick, and some are also served on a slice of crusty bread. Juana La Loca has perfected the art of the pintxo, creating a menu that is both diverse and delicious.
The restaurant’s tortilla with potato, eggs, and confit onion is widely considered by many to be the very best in all of Madrid. This simple yet incredibly flavorful dish is a testament to the power of quality ingredients and expert preparation. The huevos rotos trufados (truffled broken egg) is another popular dish, a luxurious and decadent treat that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The care, creativity, and unwavering commitment to quality ingredients that go into the preparation of every dish on the menu mean that you can be confident that whatever you order will be truly exceptional. However, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the abundance of tempting choices and aren’t quite sure what to order, don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations. The staff at Juana La Loca are always happy to offer their expertise and guide you towards the perfect culinary experience.
Due to its immense popularity, it is essential to book well in advance if you wish to dine at Juana La Loca. This restaurant is consistently busy, a testament to the quality of its food and the excellence of its service. If you do happen to show up without a reservation, be prepared to exercise a little patience. Put your name on the waitlist and then take the opportunity to kill some time by strolling around the charming La Latina neighborhood, soaking up the atmosphere and exploring the local shops and sights. The delicioso food served at Juana La Loca is well worth the wait and the hype, a culinary experience that you won’t soon forget.
Plaza de Puerta de Moros 4
Lhardy
If you’re seeking an upscale and unforgettable evening out in Madrid, look no further than the historical Lhardy house, a true culinary institution located in the bustling Sol neighborhood. Considered to be Madrid’s very first luxury restaurant, Lhardy has been delighting diners for nearly 200 years, and continues to uphold its reputation for excellence.
Lhardy proudly serves some of its original and most iconic dishes, including the traditional Madrid stew and the classic beef Wellington. These dishes are a testament to the restaurant’s rich history and its commitment to preserving culinary traditions. In addition to these timeless favorites, Lhardy also offers a selection of newer and more contemporary offerings, such as the refreshing Galician lobster salad and the delicate Evaristo sole with Champagne and capers. This blend of classic and modern dishes ensures that there is something to appeal to every palate.
As you are seated in the opulent dining room, you’ll feel like a true VIP, surrounded by the restaurant’s elegant decor. The room is adorned with sparkling chandeliers, rich dark wood, and plush red velvet, creating an atmosphere of timeless luxury and sophistication. This is a place where innumerable politicians, intellectuals, and dignitaries have held history-making meetings, adding to the restaurant’s aura of importance and prestige. The ambiance at Lhardy is truly unforgettable, a testament to the restaurant’s long and illustrious history.
If you find yourself short on time or simply wish to take a taste of Lhardy home with you, be sure to visit the store and deli located on the ground floor. Here, you’ll find a delightful selection of wines, gourmet deli products, unique gifts, and beautifully curated holiday baskets. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase a souvenir of your Lhardy experience or to find a special gift for a loved one.
Cra de S. Jerónimo 8
Jurucha
This beloved tapas tavern, known as Jurucha, is nestled in the heart of the Salamanca neighborhood. It has been serving up delectable canapés since the 1960s, when the Viesca Gomez-Martinho family took over the business and began to build its reputation as a local favorite. Jurucha has become a quintessential Madrid experience, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich culinary heritage and its vibrant social scene.
The restaurant’s original menu primarily featured fried foods and seafood, reflecting the traditional tapas culture of the time. However, over the years, Jurucha has evolved and expanded its offerings, now boasting an impressive selection of more than 60 different types of tapas. This extensive menu ensures that there is something to suit every taste and preference, from classic Spanish flavors to more innovative and contemporary creations.
Jurucha is committed to showcasing the freshest ingredients sourced from local markets, ensuring that every dish is bursting with seasonal flavors. As a result, some menu items change with the seasons, reflecting the availability of fresh produce and the chef’s culinary inspiration. This dedication to quality and freshness is what sets Jurucha apart and keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
Be prepared for a packed house, especially if you visit during lunchtime on a weekday. Jurucha is a popular spot, and its small size means that it can get quite crowded. However, the lively atmosphere and delicious food make it well worth braving the crowds. If you can’t find a seat inside, take advantage of the sidewalk tables, which provide additional space for diners to enjoy their tapas in the fresh air. And if even the sidewalk tables are full, do as the Madrid residents do: stand and eat at the bar, soaking up the authentic tavern vibes and enjoying the company of your fellow diners.
Local favorites at Jurucha include the pajarito (a tuna sandwich with mayonnaise), prawn aioli, crispy croquettes, flavorful empanadillas (small empanadas), and traditional Spanish morcilla (blood sausage). These small bites are perfect for sharing and sampling, allowing you to experience a wide range of Spanish flavors and textures. Juruncha also offers a selection of beer on tap, which pairs perfectly with the casual setting, small bites, and authentic tavern vibes.
Calle Ayala 19
B-2397