Madrid is renowned for its incredible cuisine, ranging from traditional Spanish dishes to international fusion cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you simply must indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights. Here we put our picks of the top 10 best restaurants in Madrid that offer a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Madrid Located?
Madrid’s best restaurants are spread throughout the city, each located in vibrant neighborhoods that add to their charm and appeal.
Madrid City Center
The heart of Madrid is home to several top dining spots. Here, you’ll find iconic restaurants like Paco Roncero Restaurante, a haute cuisine temple that offers a sophisticated dining experience. The central location makes it easy to explore other attractions before or after your meal.
Trendy Neighborhoods
Trendy areas like Malasaña and Chueca are brimming with innovative dining options. For example, Sala de Despiece in Chamberí is an immersive nose-to-tail experience that food lovers shouldn’t miss. These neighborhoods offer a hip and lively atmosphere that perfectly complements the cutting-edge cuisine.
Hidden Gems Outside the City Center
For those willing to venture a bit further, Madrid’s outskirts hide some culinary treasures. Coque, a room tasting experience, is located in Humanes de Madrid and provides an exquisite multi-sensory dining journey. These hidden gems offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city center and are well worth the trip.
Top 23 Best Restaurants in Madrid
Visiting some of the numerous bars that line the city streets and outlying areas, and serve the famous snack-like servings (tapas) and small portions of selected foods (raciones) is the best way to discover the Madrid cuisine and food.
DiverXO Restaurant
A three-Michelin-star restaurant headed by the renowned chef, David Munoz, DiverXO offers a gastronomic experience like no other. The menu features Asian-inspired dishes with a Spanish twist, and the restaurant’s avant-garde decor creates a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Known for pushing the boundaries of traditional Spanish cuisine, Muñoz creates avant-garde dishes that are both visually stunning and explosively flavorful. The dining experience at DiverXO50 is unconventional and theatrical, making it a must-visit for those seeking a truly unique gastronomic journey.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Botín Restaurant
Founded in 1725, Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world and a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional Spanish cuisine. The restaurant’s rustic decor and classic dishes, such as the succulent roast suckling pig, provide a truly authentic Spanish dining experience.
Coque Restaurant
With three Michelin stars, Coque offers a contemporary take on traditional Spanish cuisine. Coque offers a unique multi-room tasting experience that takes diners on a culinary journey through different parts of the restaurant. Each course is served in a distinct setting, from the wine cellar to the main dining area, creating an immersive and unforgettable dining adventure. The innovative menu showcases the best of Spanish cuisine with a modern twist, making Coque a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience.
Ramón Freixa Restaurant
A two-Michelin-star restaurant located in the heart of the city, Ramón Freixa Madrid offers innovative and creative dishes that combine traditional Spanish ingredients with modern cooking techniques.
La Terraza del Casino Restaurant
Located on the top floor of Madrid’s iconic Casino building, La Terraza del Casino offers a stunning view of the city along with innovative and avant-garde cuisine.
No Regrets Booking Advice
El Club Allard Restaurant
With two Michelin stars, El Club Allard offers a fusion of traditional Spanish cuisine with international flavors. The restaurant’s stylish decor and creative dishes make it a popular choice for foodies.
Punto MX Restaurant
Punto MX offers modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish and elegant setting. The restaurant’s inventive dishes and extensive tequila and mezcal collection make it a top choice for those looking for something different.
StreetXO Restaurant
StreetXO offers a unique and innovative take on Asian street food, with dishes that are both creative and flavorful. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and open kitchen make it a fun and lively spot for a night out.
Amazónico Restaurant
Amazónico, located in the upscale Salamanca district, is a lush, tropical retreat in the heart of Madrid. With its vibrant jungle-themed décor and a menu that draws inspiration from the Amazon rainforest, this restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience. Highlights include their fresh seafood dishes and exotic cocktails, all complemented by live jazz performances that add to the enchanting atmosphere.
Angelita Madrid Restaurant
Angelita Madrid is a family-run restaurant renowned for its extensive wine list and innovative cuisine. Situated in the city center, it offers a cozy yet contemporary ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh and flavorful. The restaurant is also known for its creative cocktails, expertly crafted to complement the diverse array of dishes.
Casa Benigna Restaurant
Casa Benigna is a charming, rustic eatery devoted to perfecting the art of paella. Located in a cozy corner of Madrid, this restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Spanish home. The menu features various regional styles of paella, all cooked to perfection using the freshest ingredients. Their house-made sangria is a delightful accompaniment, making every meal a celebration of Spanish culinary heritage.
DSTAgE Restaurant
DSTAgE redefines fine dining with its relaxed and unpretentious approach. Chef Diego Guerrero’s culinary creations are both sophisticated and playful, offering a delightful surprise in every dish. The open kitchen layout allows diners to witness the artistry behind their meals, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. This blend of high-end cuisine and a casual atmosphere makes DSTAgE a standout choice for a memorable meal.
Deessa Restaurant
Deessa, located in the historic Ritz Hotel, offers an opulent dining experience that combines lavish décor with exquisite cuisine. Chef Quique Dacosta’s innovative dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate, with each course meticulously crafted to perfection. The restaurant’s luxurious setting makes it an ideal choice for special occasions and romantic dinners, where culinary fantasies truly come to life.
Desde 1911 Restaurant
Desde 1911 is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering a minimalist approach that highlights the natural flavors of the freshest ingredients. The elegant yet simple décor ensures that the focus remains on the food, with each dish meticulously prepared to showcase the finest seafood. From oysters to grilled fish, every bite at Desde 1911 is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and quality.
El Cisne Azul Restaurant
El Cisne Azul is a beloved local gem known for its exceptional mushroom dishes. This small, unassuming restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and hearty, flavorful meals that have earned it a loyal following. The menu features a variety of mushroom-based dishes, each prepared with care and expertise. It’s the perfect spot for a casual yet satisfying dining experience in Madrid.
El Paraguas Restaurant
Situated in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood, El Paraguas is celebrated for its refined Asturian cuisine. The elegant setting and impeccable service make it a favorite among discerning diners. Signature dishes like fabada asturiana and grilled meats are prepared with meticulous attention to detail, offering a taste of the rich culinary traditions of Asturias in a sophisticated environment.
El Rincón de Jáen
El Rincón de Jáen is a hidden gem that offers a taste of traditional Andalusian cuisine in Madrid. Known for its friendly service and warm atmosphere, this restaurant serves up hearty dishes like salmorejo and rabo de toro, all made with authentic ingredients and techniques. It’s a great place to experience the flavors of southern Spain in the heart of the capital.
Fismuler Restaurant
Fismuler is a no-frills dining spot that focuses on delivering exceptional Spanish cuisine without the fuss. The minimalist décor puts the spotlight on the food, which is made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its creative takes on classic dishes, Fismuler offers a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring that each visit is a fresh and exciting culinary adventure.
La Tasquita de Enfrente
La Tasquita de Enfrente is a small, intimate restaurant that prides itself on using the finest seasonal Spanish produce. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients available, resulting in dishes that are both simple and exquisite. The cozy setting and attentive service make it a favorite among locals who appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Paco Roncero Restaurante
Paco Roncero Restaurante is a temple of haute cuisine, offering an elevated dining experience that combines cutting-edge techniques with the finest ingredients. Chef Paco Roncero’s innovative approach results in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The elegant, contemporary setting and impeccable service make this restaurant a top choice for those seeking a truly luxurious dining experience.
Sacha Restaurant
Sacha is a cherished Spanish bistro that combines a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with top-notch cuisine. The menu offers a variety of Spanish dishes made with seasonal ingredients, ensuring fresh and flavorful meals every time. Known for its friendly service and welcoming vibe, Sacha is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing a true taste of Madrid’s culinary culture.
Sala de Despiece
Sala de Despiece offers an immersive nose-to-tail dining experience that focuses on using every part of the animal. The innovative menu is designed to highlight the versatility and flavor of each ingredient, resulting in dishes that are both creative and delicious. The industrial-chic setting and interactive dining style make Sala de Despiece a unique and exciting place to eat in Madrid.
Smoked Room Restaurant
Smoked Room is a fusion restaurant that combines Japanese and Spanish culinary traditions to create a unique and flavorful dining experience. The menu features a variety of smoked dishes, all prepared with a blend of techniques and ingredients from both cultures. The intimate, stylish setting and inventive cuisine make Smoked Room a must-visit for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors in Madrid.
How to Get the Best Dining Experience in Madrid
Securing a memorable dining experience in Madrid involves more than just choosing the right restaurant. Here are some tips to enhance your culinary adventure:
Making Reservations: Many of Madrid’s top restaurants require reservations, especially for dinner. To avoid disappointment, it’s advisable to book your table in advance. Popular spots like DiverXO50 and Deessa can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is essential.
Best Times to Visit: Spaniards typically dine later than in other countries, with lunch often starting around 2 PM and dinner around 9 PM. To experience Madrid like a local, align your dining schedule with these times. Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed dining atmosphere.
Dietary Preferences and Options: Madrid’s culinary scene is accommodating to various dietary preferences. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are widely available. Restaurants like Angelita Madrid and Fismuler excel at offering diverse menus that cater to different dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
Will You Need a Reservation?
Popular Restaurants: For the most sought-after dining spots, reservations are a must. Places like Amazónico, the original jungle hangout, and DSTAgE, known for its relaxed haute cuisine, are incredibly popular and often booked out weeks in advance.
Walk-in Friendly Spots: While reservations are recommended for many top restaurants, there are still excellent options for those who prefer spontaneity. El Cisne Azul and El Rincón de Jáen are examples of walk-in friendly spots where you can enjoy fantastic food without prior planning.
Special Occasions: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, it’s particularly important to secure a reservation. Restaurants like Paco Roncero Restaurante and Restaurante Sacha provide an exceptional dining experience that’s perfect for marking important milestones.
Insider Tips for Dining in Madrid
Navigating the Menu: Spanish menus can be extensive and sometimes overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations, especially for local specialties. It’s also a good idea to try a mix of dishes, including tapas, main courses, and desserts, to get a full taste of what the restaurant has to offer.
Local Etiquette: Dining in Spain is a social affair, so take your time and enjoy the experience. It’s common to linger over meals and engage in lively conversation. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; a small amount (around 5-10%) is usually sufficient.
Must-Try Dishes: Each restaurant has its standout dishes that are a must-try. For example, at Casa Benigna, you can’t miss their signature paella. At Amazónico, the seafood platter is a crowd favorite. Sampling these specialties will ensure you get the best experience each restaurant has to offer.
FAQs
What is the typical cost of dining out in Madrid?
The cost varies depending on the restaurant and type of meal. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost between €20-€40 per person. Fine dining establishments can range from €70 to over €200 per person.
Are there good vegetarian/vegan options?
Yes, many restaurants in Madrid offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Angelita Madrid and Fismuler are particularly known for their diverse and accommodating menus.
How is the tipping culture in Madrid?
Tipping in Madrid is not obligatory, but it is appreciated. A small tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous. In casual settings, rounding up the bill is also common.
Can I find gluten-free options?
Yes, many restaurants offer gluten-free dishes. It’s always best to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions so they can accommodate your needs. Places like Deessa and DSTAgE are known for their flexibility in catering to dietary preferences.
What are the best times to make a reservation?
It’s best to make reservations for lunch around 2 PM and for dinner around 9 PM, aligning with local dining habits. For popular restaurants, booking a few weeks in advance is recommended.
