Our favourite dining spots in Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s love of food is something truly special, bringing together the best of Spain’s regional flavours in its celebrated restaurants and historic food markets. The OROKO team has visited the city many times, some of us even having called it home, so we have insider knowledge of some of the best local spots. To help you experience Madrid like a true Madrileño, we’ve hand-picked some of the city’s top dining venues—from seafood pintxos and classic tapas to seasonal, fine dining experiences.

Calle del Príncipe de Vergara | +34 915 638 977

This family-owned restaurant, with over 100 years of history, continues to uphold the tradition of simple, high-quality dishes made from fresh, market-sourced ingredients. Be sure to try the delicate cazón (dogfish) and don’t miss one of the fish mains, like the light and flavourful rape al horno (oven-baked monkfish). The restaurant is renowned for its escalope con huevo y trufa (a Spanish twist on Milanese with egg and truffle), but we recommend opting for the baby version—half the size but still just as deliciously satisfying.

Pl. de San Miguel | +34 915 424 936

To truly experience Madrid’s vibrant food scene, a visit to one of its local markets is essential—and Mercado de San Miguel is the perfect place to start. This century-old market is a feast for the senses, with windows showcasing hanging legs of Iberian ham and overflowing trays of fresh produce and sweet treats. The enticing aromas alone are enough to draw you inside! We recommend pairing a selection of pinchos with a glass of wine, though it’s best to avoid peak hours when the market gets especially busy. If you’re not sure where to begin, go for the delicious cod brandade.

Carrera de S. Jerónimo, 8 | +34 915 213 385

An opulent restaurant in the centre of Madrid, Lhardy has been serving outstanding cuisine since 1839. It is renowned for its consommé, cocido Madrileño (traditional chickpea stew, popular in winter) and beef wellington. Save room for dessert, where two types of soufflé are on offer as well as millefeuille, ice cream and torrijas, a Spanish dessert typically served in Easter and similar to French toast.

Calle de Ayala | +34 915 755 925

Famous for its Spanish omelette, Casa Dani is the perfect spot for an afternoon snack. This family-owned bar and restaurant makes over 200 omelettes a day, with their tortilla de patatas often crowned the best in Madrid. To avoid the crowds, aim to go around 12/1 p.m. or 5/6 p.m. for a delicious slice, without the rush. While you’re there, be sure to try the gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), and don’t miss out on their cheesecake, which is also fantastic.

Various locations

With multiple locations around the city, L’entrecote Café de Paris is a must-visit for steak lovers which offers a unique dining experience that centres around its signature entrecôte steak. The menu features a perfectly cooked entrecôte, cooked over flame with a secret butter sauce inspired by the original recipe from Geneva’s Café de Paris, served with an unlimited supply of crispy shoestring fries. This simple yet exceptional dish guarantees a memorable dining experience.

Paseo de la Castellana, 44 | +34 915 75 75 53

This vibrant and lively spot on Paseo de la Castellana offers a menu filled with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, alongside Larrumba-branded brunch options and expertly crafted cocktails, all prepared in the restaurant’s open kitchen. Highlights of the menu include the falso risotto made with orzo pasta, the indulgent Milanese with egg and truffle, fresh tuna tartare and the crispy potato mille-feuille served with tender steak tartare.

Calle Marqués de Valdeiglesias, 1 | +34 91 532 94 96

Adorned with rich dark tones and plush velvet accents, Ático Restaurante & Terraza at The Principal Madrid sets the scene for an elegant culinary experience. Showcasing authentic Spanish cuisine, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients and classic recipes—think roasted turbot, veal Milanese and creamy risotto—all served with sweeping views over the iconic Gran Vía.

Calle de la Libertad, 1 | +34 915 318 079

Located in the quirky neighbourhood of Chueca, this traditional tavern, named after its former owners Celso and Manolo, is a wonderful leisurely lunch spot. The restaurant features an impressive eight-metre-long marble bar, in place since the 1950s, where you can enjoy vermouth paired with tapas and small plates. Famed for their tomatoes, you simply must try the cata de 4 tomatoes y 4 aceites; a selection of four types of tomatoes and four olive oils accompanied by artisanal bread.

Calle de Gral. Pardiñas, 21 | +34 915 75 23 29

Taberna de la Daniela is another fantastic spot to experience the famed cocido madrileño. The traditional chickpea stew is served in generous portions, with a rich and warming broth, tender chickpeas with vegetables and succulent meats. The restaurant has an old-fashioned bar vibe, offering a no-frills atmosphere favoured by locals and businessmen for lunch.

Calle de la Amnistía, 10 | +34 914 472 713

This French bistro is perfect for celebrating a special occasion. Tucked away on Calle Amnistía in the Ópera neighbourhood, it transports you straight to Provence the moment you step through the door. Led by Chef Stephane del Rio, the restaurant offers an authentic and traditional selection of French dishes. Start with the escargot in herb butter and make sure to preorder the beef wellington, one of the restaurant’s signature standout dishes.

Calle de Jorge Juan, 12 | +34 918 336 981

La Maquina de Jorge Juan is situated on the elegant street of Jorge Juan in Barrio de Salamanca. Enjoy a meal in the dining room, sampling a selection of Spanish classics. We recommend the acorn-fed Iberian ham, salmon tartare and cocochas de merluza, a traditional hake dish from Spain. Seafood lovers will be impressed by the selection on offer including oysters, scallops, razor clams and crayfish.

Calle Monte Esquinza, 34 | +34 91 319 54 98

If you’re looking for a restaurant with character, this long-established spot blends the charm of an Andalusian patio with the classic touches of an English gentleman’s club. The setting is what makes La Parra truly special—dim lighting, old-fashioned décor and a distinctly Sevillian touch. The menu is playfully described as “Spanglish,” meaning you’ll find both Spanish dishes and international favourites, from roast beef with horseradish to steak tartare, confit duck and Moroccan chicken.

Calle Velazquez, 54 | +34 917 814 969

This popular spot in the glamorous neighbourhood of Salamanca has a great buzz at lunchtime, with the bar filling up as people drop in for a drink and some pinchos. Choose to dine on the terrace, in the stylish dining room or, for an aperitivo, dine at the bar with the locals. Don’t miss the crispy cod brandade croquettes and the fresh clams. Another one of our favourites is the huevos rotos con jamón—a Spanish classic of fried eggs, crispy potatoes and Iberian ham. It might not sound particularly special, but it’s delicious!

Calle de Sevilla, 3 | +34 913 30 62 10

Housed in the luxury Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, Dani Brasserie offers a sophisticated dining experience curated by renowned Michelin-distinguished chef, Dani García. The menu combines the best of Dani García’s Michelin-starred dishes with more casual Spanish and international cuisine. Highlights include specialties such as the nitro tomato with green gazpacho, the Dani Rossini burger, pickled prawns and expertly prepared bluefin tuna.

From securing reservations at some of the capital’s most sought-after restaurants to organising private tours with local experts, we’ll open the doors to the city’s vibrant food culture.