10 Great Restaurants in Madrid

La Posada del Nuncio in Madrid is where you can experience traditional Spanish cuisine as if it were prepared in Abuelita's (grandma’s) kitchen. Located near Plaza Mayor, the monumental city square that once was the main market of the town, it’s where you can get a feel of the history of the city as you dine.

Try the typical cocido madrileño (chickpea-based stew) that is a warm treat in the winter months. Don´t miss their giant tomato, which is light and flavourful. No need to speak perfect Spanish here – simply let the helpful staff spoil you with their attentive service and the delightful tastes of Spain.

Restaurante TriCiclo is a vibrant bistro in Madrid where you can enjoy the enduring tradition of sharing tapas. It is said that tapas originated when bar owners would give out small pieces of bread or meat to cover drinks and keep flies out. This tradition evolved into what it is today, a style of serving many small plates for sharing, and it’s a great way to try various Spanish flavours.

Its name Triciclo (tricycle) refers to the 3 young chefs in the kitchen, who combine flavours in innovative ways so that the traditional meets the modern. Be sure to sample their homemade sangria, the quintessential Spanish drink made of red wine, lemons, fruits, and spices.

Sacha is an intimate bistro in Madrid that was founded on family recipes and old-school Spanish cuisine. It was opened decades ago by a couple who named it after their son, who is now the head chef. The menu is updated seasonally, and you’ll be able to relish the exquisite freshness and simplicity of Basque and Galician foods. It’s cherished by locals, chefs, and visitors, which goes to show the quality of its dishes.

Satiate your palate with masterfully prepared local seafood and classic tapas. In the summer months, you’ll be pleased by the opportunity to dine outside, surrounded by trees, on their cosy outdoor terrace.

Asador Real is a classic Mediterranean steakhouse in the old centre of Madrid known as El Madrid de los Austrias. Nearby Plaza Mayor, it’s set in a location that’s rich in history. Once where bullfights and coronations were hosted, is now a happening area for Madrid’s foodie culture.

Try cochinillo (suckling pig) that’s traditionally roasted in brick ovens to a perfect combination of tender meat and crispy skin. It’s usually shared by locals for celebrations like birthdays. Even so, you can celebrate Spain´s culinary excellence with this mouthwatering dish anytime at Asador Real. Also impressive is the wood-fired leg of lamb, an absolute delight for the palate.

DiverXO is a fine-dining spot in Madrid that’s sleek, hip, and offers a super guay (cool) vibe with clean, white, and modern decor. Take time to explore the surrounding fashionable area of Chamartín which includes the pair of slanted buildings known as Gate of Europe and Madrid’s National Music Auditorium.

Head over to this happening diner and prepare to be stimulated by the creativity of the chef, who mixes ingredients from the Mediterranean, Asia, and South America. The contemporary tasting menus are refreshing and artistic and are served on quirky dishware.

Decadente is among the top restaurants in the Barrio de las Letras neighbourhood of Madrid, which is abuzz with flamenco show theatres, fashionable boutiques, and lively beer halls. After taking in the art galleries of the nearby Ateneo de Madrid, settle for a meal or an upbeat night out at Decadente. The good music, imaginative menu and modern but relaxed ambience draw a regular crowd.

Enjoy the blend of Spanish classics and international ingredients, with a varied selection of wines. After your meal, head downstairs and be delighted to discover the cool little cave-like cocktail bar below.

El Paraguas is a restaurant on trendy Calle de Jorje Juan in the fashionable Salamanca area of Madrid. The decor, ambience, and menu reflect the sophistication of Madrid dining at its finest. Foodies will be enthralled by the exquisite selection of fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables, all served in a lovely and tranquil setting.

Here you can try the traditional cold gazpacho soup. It’s made with tomatoes and other vegetables, but is also uniquely served with lobster and has a sweet-tangy flavour thanks to strawberry being among its ¨secret¨ ingredients.

La Tasqueria is a tasca (tavern) in the cosy Chamberi district of Madrid. After spending your afternoon strolling through the gorgeous grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Retiro Park, head here for a gastronomic adventure that your taste buds won’t soon forget.

The minimalist decor and laidback atmosphere of the restaurant augment your dining experience. The novel combination of ingredients and impressive presentation is unique, but even more so is the inclusion of unusually used parts of meat. Venturesome foodies will surely be fascinated by the gourmet selection that includes beef tongue, partridge liver, and chicken stomachs.

DSTAgE is an industrial-chic spot in Madrid where you can experience the unique influence of Japanese cuisine on Spanish dishes. It’s a great go-to spot after starting your evening with an art viewing at the nearby Museo Nacional del Prado.

The restaurant’s name is an acronym for “Days to Smell Taste Amaze Grow and Enjoy” and it also lends to the fact that the food preparation is on show here. The atmosphere inside is relaxed with the focal point being its open kitchen where you can have a peek and breathe in the aromas of the dishes being freshly prepared before you. They offer an amazing 18-course tasting menu, paired expertly with local wines.

Ramón Freixa is a sophisticated diner in the Salamanca neighbourhood, which was once the exclusive residence of the city’s aristocracy. You’ll be enchanted by the elegance and charm of both the area and this fine restaurant.

With a focus on fresh local produce, offerings change seasonally but the creative flavours, textures, and presentations are constant. You’ll be intrigued by the use of heritage recipes and modern techniques to create a range of innovative and modernized cuisine. It’s a real treat for foodies, with perfect wine pairings suggested by their expert sommelier.