What to Eat in Madrid
Madrid is not only the political and cultural heart of Spain — it’s also one of its most exciting culinary destinations. The city offers a mix of traditional Castilian flavors, modern Spanish innovation, and a rich tapas culture that reflects the Madrilenian love for social dining.
From hearty stews to crispy churros, and from elegant restaurants to bustling markets, Madrid’s food scene perfectly balances authenticity and creativity. Below is a guide to the must-try foods in Madrid for anyone looking to experience its true gastronomic identity.
1. Cocido Madrileño (Madrid-Style Stew)
What it is:
Cocido Madrileño is Madrid’s most iconic dish — a slow-cooked chickpea-based stew made with meats (usually chorizo, morcilla, pork belly, chicken, and beef), potatoes, and vegetables.
How it’s served:
Traditionally, it’s served in three courses: first the broth, then the chickpeas and vegetables, and finally the meat.
Where to try it:
Classic restaurants such as La Bola, Malacatín, or Taberna de la Daniela are known for serving authentic cocido.
Why you should try it:
It’s comfort food at its best — rich, hearty, and deeply tied to Madrid’s culinary tradition.
2. Bocadillo de Calamares (Fried Squid Sandwich)
What it is:
A simple yet beloved Madrid street food — a crusty baguette stuffed with crispy fried squid rings.
Where to try it:
Head to the bars around Plaza Mayor, where this sandwich is a local specialty. Bar La Campana and El Brillante are two famous spots.
Why you should try it:
It’s the quintessential Madrid snack — inexpensive, quick, and deliciously satisfying.
3. Callos a la Madrileña (Madrid-Style Tripe)
What it is:
A traditional dish made from beef tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage) cooked slowly in a spicy, smoky paprika sauce.
Where to try it:
Classic taverns like Casa Lucio or Taberna Antonio Sánchez.
Why you should try it:
It’s one of Madrid’s oldest recipes, reflecting the city’s love for rich, rustic flavors.
4. Huevos Rotos (Broken Eggs)
What it is:
A simple yet incredibly tasty dish of fried eggs served over fried potatoes, often topped with jamón ibérico, chorizo, or other cured meats.
Where to try it:
Casa Lucio made this dish famous, but it’s served in tapas bars all over the city.
Why you should try it:
It’s the perfect example of how Spanish cooking transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary.
5. Tapas and Raciones
What they are:
Small plates meant for sharing — ranging from jamón ibérico, croquetas, patatas bravas, tortilla española, and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
Where to try them:
- La Latina neighborhood — especially along Cava Baja and Cava Alta.
- Lavapiés for multicultural tapas.
- Mercado de San Miguel for a gourmet experience.
Why you should try them:
Tapas are not just food — they’re a way of life in Madrid. Locals move from bar to bar, sampling small dishes while socializing.
6. Jamón Ibérico (Iberian Ham)
What it is:
A prized Spanish delicacy made from acorn-fed Iberian pigs. It’s aged for years to achieve its deep, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Where to try it:
Visit a jamonería (ham shop) or markets like Mercado de San Miguel or Museo del Jamón.
Why you should try it:
It’s the crown jewel of Spanish gastronomy — tasting it in Madrid is an essential culinary experience.
7. Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelette)
What it is:
A thick omelette made with eggs, potatoes, and onions, often served warm or at room temperature.
Where to try it:
Juana la Loca in La Latina serves a particularly creamy and flavorful version.
Why you should try it:
It’s Spain’s most classic dish, and every bar and household in Madrid has its own version.
8. Patatas Bravas
What it is:
Crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy bravas sauce (made of paprika, tomato, and chili) and sometimes aioli.
Where to try it:
Docamar, in the Ventas district, is legendary for its patatas bravas.
Why you should try it:
It’s a Madrid invention — spicy, crispy, and perfect with a glass of beer.
9. Churros con Chocolate
What it is:
Crispy fried dough sticks served with a cup of thick, hot chocolate for dipping.
Where to try it:
Chocolatería San Ginés, open since 1894, is the most famous spot in Madrid for churros.
Why you should try it:
It’s the ultimate Spanish comfort food, especially popular for breakfast or after a late night out.
10. Sobrassada, Croquetas, and Empanadas
Croquetas: Creamy fried bites filled with béchamel sauce and ham or cod.
Empanadas: Savory pastries filled with tuna, meat, or vegetables.
Sobrassada: A soft, spreadable cured sausage from the Balearic Islands, often served on bread.
Why you should try them:
They’re essential parts of Madrid’s tapas culture and showcase Spain’s regional diversity.
11. Seafood Tapas (Mariscos)
Even though Madrid is inland, it’s famous for its seafood — brought in fresh from Spain’s coasts daily.
What to try:
- Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp)
- Pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus)
- Boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar)
Where to try it:
Seafood bars like La Casa del Abuelo or O’Pazo.
Why you should try it:
Madrid’s seafood quality rivals that of many coastal cities.
12. Local Desserts and Sweets
- Torrijas: Spanish-style French toast, especially popular during Easter.
- Rosquillas: Ring-shaped pastries flavored with anise or lemon.
- Bartolillos Madrileños: Pastry pockets filled with custard.
Where to try them:
Traditional bakeries like La Mallorquina near Puerta del Sol.
13. Drink Pairings: What to Drink with Madrid’s Food
- Vino Tinto (Red Wine): Especially Rioja or Ribera del Duero.
- Tinto de Verano: A refreshing mix of red wine and lemon soda.
- Vermouth: Popular for afternoon tapas.
- Cerveza (Beer): Madrileños often enjoy a caña (small draft beer) with their tapas.
Summary: Must-Try Dishes in Madrid
| Type | Dish | Why It’s Special |
| -------- | ---------------------- | ---------------------------- |
| Stew | Cocido Madrileño | Classic, hearty comfort food |
| Sandwich | Bocadillo de Calamares | Iconic street snack |
| Tapas | Patatas Bravas | Spicy and uniquely Madrid |
| Egg Dish | Huevos Rotos | Simple but flavorful |
| Dessert | Churros con Chocolate | Sweet Madrid tradition |
| Meat | Jamón Ibérico | Spain’s finest cured ham |
| Classic | Tortilla Española | Essential Spanish staple |
Final Thoughts
Madrid’s cuisine is as lively and diverse as its people. Eating here is more than a meal — it’s a social ritual that celebrates good company, bold flavors, and local traditions. Whether you’re tasting tapas in La Latina, enjoying cocido in a historic tavern, or ending the night with churros and chocolate, you’ll discover that food is at the heart of Madrid’s identity.
