Olives at the Mercado de San Miguel
Madrid’s culinary scene spans a range of national, regional, and international cuisines. From traditional tapas to Peruvian and Japanese, there is a restaurant to suit every taste and every mood. To help you figure out where to eat, below is my list of the best restaurants in Madrid:
Classic
La Parra – La Parra is a very old school restaurant set in beautiful surroundings. It is a great place to go for a traditional meal in Madrid. Lively locals and good food round out the scene.
Contemporary
Las Tortillas de Gabino – As the name implies, Las Tortillas de Gabino has the best tortillas in Madrid. The rest of the menu is also delicious, with great tapas and a good wine list. The decor and ambiance are fresh and modern, and you can book online.
Local
Casa Lucio – For local cuisine, Casa Lucio in La Latina is one of the best restaurants in Madrid. Dripping with traditional decor and serving everything you would expect to find in a restaurant in this city, it is a great choice for a meal with family or friends.
Mercado San Miguel – Located in the heart of Madrid, the famous Mercado de San Miguel is a foodie’s dream come true. A large covered market with stalls selling every kind of tapa imaginable, the Mercado is one of the highlights of a trip to the city.
Hidden Gem
Baco y Beto – A little tucked-away place in Chueca, Baco y Beto has excellent Spanish food and a great ambiance. Make sure to book ahead.
Fine Dining
Santceloni – For high cuisine, Santceloni the perfect place to dine. Its modern decor keeps the place lively, but the gastronomic menus and emphasis on food make it one of the best culinary experiences in Madrid.
International
Astrid y Gaston – Straight out of Lima, Astrid y Gaston serves some of the best Peruvian food outside of Peru. If you’re tired of Spanish cuisine but don’t want to stray far from the Latin theme, this is a great option.
Kabuki – As you might guess, Kabuki offers world-class Japanese cuisine. Whether you are after sushi and sashimi, tempura, or Wagyu beef, you can find it here. Kabuki is by far the best Japanese restaurant in Madrid.