Discover the 15 Best Restaurants in Madrid This Summer

Madrid in the summer is a fantastic time to explore its food scene. From classic tapas spots to modern culinary destinations, the city offers a wide array of dining experiences. This guide highlights some of the best restaurants you should consider for an unforgettable meal, covering a range of tastes and atmospheres. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these 15 best restaurants in Madrid are sure to impress.

Key Takeaways

• Madrid’s culinary landscape is diverse, featuring everything from traditional tapas bars to high-end dining.
• Exploring local markets can lead to discovering hidden culinary gems.
• Making reservations is highly recommended, especially for popular restaurants during peak times.
• Spanish dining culture includes specific meal times, with lunch typically later in the afternoon and dinner starting around 9 PM.
• This list focuses on a selection of the 15 best restaurants in Madrid, chosen for their quality, atmosphere, and unique offerings.

1. Casa Labra

If you’re looking for a truly historic Madrid experience, you’ve got to check out Casa Labra. It’s been around since 1860, which is pretty wild when you think about it. They’re famous for their cod dishes, especially the ‘Tajada de bacalao,’ which is basically a piece of cod that’s been lightly battered and fried. Don’t miss the ‘Croqueta de bacalao’ either, a creamy béchamel croquette filled with cod. It’s a super popular spot, drawing in both tourists and locals, so expect it to be busy.

Must-Try Dishes

• Tajada de bacalao (fried cod)
• Croqueta de bacalao (cod croquette)

This place is a real Madrid institution, serving up classic flavors that have stood the test of time. It’s the kind of spot where you can really taste the history.

It’s definitely a place that captures the essence of traditional Madrid cuisine. You can find out more about their history on their site.

2. Bar La Campana

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty bite, Bar La Campana is your spot. This place is a classic for a reason, serving up some seriously good food without any fuss. It’s the kind of joint where you can grab a bite and be on your way, perfect for when you’re exploring the city and need to refuel fast.

They’re famous for their bocadillo de calamares, a fried squid sandwich that’s a Madrid staple. It might sound simple, but they nail it every time. The squid is perfectly crispy, and it’s all tucked into a fresh bread roll. It’s the kind of sandwich that just hits the spot, no matter the time of day.

Don’t be surprised if there’s a line; good food travels fast. But honestly, the wait is usually pretty short, and the staff are super efficient. You can often get your food and enjoy it in under 20 minutes, which is pretty impressive. It’s a great way to experience a bit of local flavor without taking up too much of your precious sightseeing time. You can find out more about their quick service on their website.

It’s a no-frills kind of place, but that’s part of its charm. You’re there for the food, and they deliver. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients, done right, can be absolutely delicious. Definitely add this to your list if you want an authentic Madrid experience.

3. Sacha

If you’re looking for a place that feels like a well-kept secret among Madrid’s food lovers, Sacha is it. This charming bistro, run by the charismatic Sacha Hormaechea, is a real gem. It’s the kind of spot where you feel instantly at home, like you’ve stumbled into a friend’s dinner party. They’re known for some seriously iconic dishes that you just have to try.

Must-Try Dishes

• Tortilla vaga This isn’t your average Spanish omelet; it’s something special.
• ‘False lasagne’ with crab A creative take on a classic that’s surprisingly light and flavorful.
• Lentils Even a simple dish like lentils is elevated to something memorable here.

The Vibe

Sacha has this wonderfully intimate atmosphere, especially on its little terrace during summer evenings. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day or for a relaxed catch-up. You’ll find that the whole experience, from the food to the service, makes you want to linger. It’s definitely a place that many locals consider a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a more special dinner. It’s easy to see why Sacha is a favorite Madrid restaurant.

The magic of Sacha lies in its ability to make every dish feel both familiar and excitingly new. It’s a testament to the chef’s passion and skill.

4. Smoked Room

Smoked Room is a pretty unique spot in Madrid, and honestly, it’s all about the smoke. It’s not just a little bit of smoke either; it’s the main event here. Dani García came up with the concept, and the head chef, Massimiliano Delle Vedove, really makes it happen. It’s a pretty exclusive vibe, especially if you can snag one of the seats right in front of the chefs. You get to see all the action up close.

This place is all about super stylish, high-end cooking. It’s like a dazzling show-cooking experience, all packed into a small space at the Hyatt Regency Hesperia. What’s really wild is that Smoked Room snagged two Michelin stars right off the bat. That’s pretty unheard of, so it definitely tells you something about the food.

The focus on smoke as a key ingredient creates a really distinct flavor profile that you won’t find just anywhere. It’s a bold approach that pays off big time.

If you’re looking for something different and you appreciate a chef’s artistry, this is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a dining experience that’s as much about the performance as it is about the incredible food. It’s a place that really commits to its theme, and it’s pretty impressive to see it all come together. You can read more about the exquisite menu and the whole experience.

5. Corral de la Morería

Okay, so you might think a place famous for flamenco wouldn’t be a top-tier dining spot, but you’d be wrong. Corral de la Morería is seriously legit. It’s not just a place to catch a show it’s a full-on culinary experience. They’ve even snagged a Michelin star, which is pretty wild considering the amazing flamenco happening right there.

What to Expect

When you go to Corral de la Morería, you’re getting a two-for-one deal on culture and cuisine. The food is modern Spanish with a nod to Andalusia, meaning you’ll find some really interesting flavors. Think dishes like sea bass with spring onions and Ibérico bacon, or this amazing Catalan flatbread that’s super crispy and loaded with veggies. It’s the kind of place where the art on your plate is just as impressive as the art on the stage.

The Vibe

It’s a legendary spot, and you can feel that history when you walk in. It’s right in the middle of everything, which is great for people-watching, but they manage to keep the focus on the food and the performance. You’ll definitely want to book ahead because this place is popular. It’s a fantastic spot for a special night out, whether you’re celebrating something or just want to treat yourself to a memorable evening.

This restaurant proves that you don’t have to sacrifice amazing food for an incredible cultural experience. It’s a win-win situation.

Must-Try Dishes

• Wild sea bass with spring onions and Ibérico bacon
• Crispy Catalan flatbread with seasonal vegetables
• Their tasting menu offers a great way to sample a variety of their best dishes.

If you’re looking for a night that combines top-notch food with world-class flamenco, you really can’t go wrong with Corral de la Morería. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

6. Ugo Chan

If you’re looking for a Japanese-inspired meal with a Spanish twist, Ugo Chan is your spot. Chef Hugo Muñoz, who used to run Carbón Negro, is the mastermind here. The dining space itself is pretty minimalist, with a cool bar and some nice wood details. It really leans into the Japanese tradition, and honestly, the best way to experience it is by going for their Omakase tasting menu. You’ll get to try things like their onion soup in smoked bonito consommé with Comté cheese, or maybe some red mullet sashimi with Bilbaína sauce. They also do this awesome Alistado prawn tempura. And for a real treat, you’ve got to try their nigiri, especially the eel and foie gras one, which is a nod to a famous Spanish chef. It’s a really unique culinary journey that you won’t forget. You can find out more about the dining experience at Ugo Chan in Madrid.

7. Velasco

Andrés Madrigal is back in Madrid and it’s a big deal! You might remember him from his 90s fame at El Olivo and Balzac. Now he’s opened Per Sé Bistro, and it’s a real treat. The place has a French-Basque vibe with some nice Latin twists, probably from his ten years living in Panama. It’s only been open a short while, but critics are already raving, and it’s snagged a Repsol Sun. The spot itself is special, too, taking over the space where the late Iñaki Camba ran Arce for ages. It’s a place that just feels welcoming from the moment you walk in. It’s a fantastic spot to experience Madrigal’s culinary journey.

What to Expect

• French-Basque inspired dishes
• Latin American influences
• A warm and inviting atmosphere
• Critically acclaimed food

This restaurant is a testament to Madrigal’s enduring talent and his ability to blend different culinary traditions into something truly special. It’s definitely a must-try this summer.

8. Sala de Despiece

A Butcher Shop Vibe

Sala de Despiece is a spot that really leans into its theme. Think high-fashion abattoir meets gastro-temple. They’ve gone all out with the decor, using meat hooks, butcher containers, and even barricade tape to create a unique atmosphere. It’s definitely a place that jump-started a culinary trend in the Chamberí neighborhood.

What to Expect on the Menu

The menu here is all about celebrating Spain’s best seasonal ingredients. You’ll find things like sweet artichokes from Tudela and red tuna from the Murcian coast. They’re known for putting on a bit of a show with table-side preparations and deconstructed dishes. One standout is their pancetta ‘Rolex’, which is basically a bite-sized creation with foie and truffle purée. It’s a really interesting take on food presentation.

Must-Try Dishes

• Pancetta "Rolex" A unique bite with foie and truffle.
• Seasonal artichokes and red tuna.
• Various deconstructed Spanish classics.

They really focus on the nose-to-tail dining concept here, so you’re getting a full appreciation for the ingredients. It’s a surprising and memorable experience if you’re looking for something a bit different.

If you’re curious about their approach to ingredients, you can check out more about Sala de Despiece.

9. Casa Dani

When you’re craving some seriously good tortilla española, Casa Dani is the spot. It’s not fancy, you know, the kind of place where napkins might end up on the floor and the servers are yelling orders to the kitchen. But don’t let that fool you. They’re famous for their tortilla española, and for good reason. They whip up about 400 of them a day, using a whopping 2,000 eggs and 1,700 pounds of potatoes.

The Star of the Show

The tortilla española here is a must-try. It’s this perfect mix of oil-poached potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and eggs that are just perfectly gooey in the middle. It’s warm, it’s comforting, and it’s easy to see why everyone raves about it. It’s the kind of simple dish done exceptionally well that makes you appreciate good food. You can find out more about their amazing food on Casa Dani’s website.

What to Expect

• No-frills atmosphere
• Incredible tortilla española
• Busy, lively vibe

This place really shows you that sometimes the best food comes from the most unassuming spots. It’s all about the quality of the ingredients and how they’re put together.

10. Cruz Blanca de Vallecas

If you’re looking for the absolute best cocido madrileño, you’ve gotta make the trip to Cruz Blanca de Vallecas. Seriously, this place is legendary for it. It’s a bit out of the way in the Entrevías neighborhood, but trust me, it’s worth the journey. People wait months for a table here, so plan ahead! Chef Antonio Cosmen is a wizard with this classic Madrid dish. He uses chickpeas from Arévalo, and get this, he buys the whole town’s crop each year. The chorizo is smoky, and the broth is so rich it practically turns into jelly when it cools down. It’s a humble spot, but the food is out of this world.

What to Expect

• The Star Dish: Cocido Madrileño. It’s a hearty stew with chickpeas, vegetables, and various meats like chorizo and jamón.
• The Wait: Be prepared for a long waitlist, often three months or more.
• The Vibe: It’s a modest tavern, so don’t expect fancy decor. The focus is entirely on the incredible food.

This spot is a true testament to how amazing traditional food can be when prepared with passion and top-notch ingredients. It’s a taste of authentic Madrid you won’t forget.

If you’re exploring the area, you might want to check out the Mirador de Entrevías for some great city views.

11. StreetXo

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s anything but ordinary, StreetXo is your spot. This place is seriously fun, with a vibe that’s both posh and playful. Forget traditional Spanish fare; StreetXo takes you on a global flavor journey, pulling inspiration from all over the map, think Asia, America, and Italy all rolled into one. The dishes are small, but trust me, the flavors are huge. And you absolutely have to check out their cocktails – they’re fantastic.

The menu here is always switching things up, so you never know what exciting new creation you’ll find. But you can expect things like Korean Lasagna or wok-fried squid. It’s a really unique gastronomic adventure that’s perfect for when you want to shake things up. Plus, the rooftop bar offers some pretty epic views of the city. It’s definitely a place that makes you want to come back for more.

What to Expect

• Global Flavors Expect dishes that blend different cuisines in surprising ways.
• Small Plates, Big Taste The portions are modest, but the taste is anything but.
• Creative Cocktails Their drink menu is just as inventive as the food.
• Funky Atmosphere The vibe is lively and modern, making for a memorable meal.

Must-Try Dishes (When Available)

• Korean Lasagna
• Wok Squid
• Asian-inspired Croquettes
• Scallop
• Octopus Taco

A Unique Dining Experience

StreetXo isn’t just a restaurant it’s a whole experience. It’s the kind of place you go when you want to be surprised and delighted by food. The energy is high, the food is exciting, and it’s a great spot to try something new.

12. Cebo

Cebo is a spot where chefs Javier Sanz and Juan Sahuquillo really shine. They’re known for their work at other places too, but here, they’ve put together some seriously interesting tasting menus. You can choose between an 11 or 14-course option, and let me tell you, they really show off the quality of the ingredients they use. It’s all about local flavors and showing off some real cooking skill.

What to Expect

• A Showcase of Ingredients The menus are designed to highlight the best of what’s available, focusing on local tastes and expert preparation.
• Intimate Dining They keep things pretty exclusive, with only about twenty guests per seating, so you get a really personal experience.
• Exceptional Service The front-of-house team is just as good as the kitchen, making sure your whole meal is top-notch.

The Tasting Menu Experience

The tasting menus at Cebo are a real journey through Spanish flavors. Each dish is carefully crafted, offering a delightful surprise with every bite. It’s definitely a place to go when you want to treat yourself to something special. You can check out more about their culinary approach and what makes them stand out.

They really focus on making each dish a work of art, balancing tradition with a modern touch. It’s not just about eating, it’s about experiencing the food.

13. Lana

If you’re a meat lover, you’ve probably already heard the buzz about Lana. This Argentinian parrilla, run by two brothers, is seriously making waves, even landing a spot on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list. They’re all about the grill, treating it like a ritual, and you can tell they’ve thought about every little detail, from the cozy interior design to the quality of the meat.

The Star of the Show

The bife de chorizo is a must-try, though they’ll adjust the cooking to suit your preference, which is pretty thoughtful. They source their cuts from animals aged between 10 and 12 years, which apparently gives them the perfect fat content. The chefs really know their stuff, cooking each cut exactly how you ask for it. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to become a regular.

Beyond the Beef

While meat is definitely the main event, Lana doesn’t forget about the veggies. They grill seasonal produce with the same care and attention, so you’ll find things like asparagus or beetroot on the menu, cooked perfectly. They also offer expertly prepared offal for the more adventurous eaters.

What to Expect

• Exceptional Cuts: Expect tender, flavorful meat with great marbling.
• Argentinian Focus: From the grilling techniques to the wine list, it’s a true taste of Argentina.
• Attentive Service: The whole team, from the grill master to the servers, is dedicated to making your experience special.

Make sure you set aside plenty of time for your visit. This isn’t a place to rush; it’s an experience to savor. You’ll want to soak it all in, from the food to the atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a special occasion dinner.

14. Tripea

If you’re looking for something a little different, Tripea is definitely worth checking out. It’s located right inside the Mercado de Vallehermoso, which is already a cool spot. The vibe here is super laid-back, with everyone gathered around a central bar and communal table. It feels like a place where you can really relax and enjoy your meal.

Chef Roberto Martínez Foronda is doing some seriously creative stuff here. His dishes are inspired by his Peruvian roots and Asian influences, and it really shows. You’ll find things like a hot mussel ceviche made in a wok, which sounds wild but is apparently amazing. They also offer an affordable tasting menu that gives you a great overview of what they do. It’s a unique culinary adventure that’s not to be missed if you’re exploring Madrid’s food scene. You can get a real taste of their innovative cooking by checking out their menu offerings.

What to Expect

• Globally inspired dishes with Peruvian and Asian twists.
• A lively atmosphere around a communal dining space.
• Creative takes on traditional flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

• Hot mussel ceviche prepared in a wok.
• Dishes featuring ingredients like skate and sobrasada.
• Unique noodle-based ‘rossejat’.

15. Le Bistroman

If you’re craving a genuine taste of France right in the heart of Madrid, you’ve got to check out Le Bistroman. Tucked away on Calle Amnistía in the Ópera neighborhood, stepping inside feels like you’ve been whisked away to Provence. It’s a super romantic spot, and you can really feel the French flair in everything they do, from the bubbly champagne selection to their seriously impressive wine list.

They’ve got all the French classics you’d expect, done just right. Think traditional pissaladière, which is like a tasty anchovy pizza, or escargots swimming in garlic herb butter. And don’t even get me started on their French onion soup – it’s the kind of soup that makes you want to hum a happy tune. They also do a bouillabaisse that’s so good, you might just start singing the French national anthem.

Must-Try Dishes

• Boeuf bourguignon ravioli
• Pissaladière
• Escargots in herb butter
• French onion soup
• Bouillabaisse

A Taste of Provence

Le Bistroman really nails that authentic French bistro vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down and enjoy a fantastic meal. The attention to detail is clear, especially with their made-to-order dishes that showcase classic French cooking techniques. It’s easily one of the best French restaurants you’ll find in Madrid.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Alright, that’s our rundown of some seriously tasty spots to hit up in Madrid this summer. We know, picking just 15 is tough, and honestly, there are tons more amazing places we could have mentioned. But hopefully, this gives you a great starting point for your culinary adventures. Whether you’re craving something super traditional or looking to try something totally new, Madrid’s got you covered. So go forth, eat well, and enjoy the sunshine – you’ve earned it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of restaurants are on this list?

Madrid has tons of great places to eat, from fancy spots to casual cafes. This list includes a mix of places, some are famous for classic Spanish food, while others offer cool international flavors. There’s something for everyone, whether you want a quick bite or a full meal.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Yes, it’s a really good idea to book a table ahead of time, especially if you want to eat at one of the popular places. Many of the best restaurants get full quickly, even on weekdays.

What are typical meal times in Madrid?

Spanish meal times are a bit different from what you might be used to. Lunch is usually eaten later, around 2:30 PM, and dinner often doesn’t start until 9:00 PM. Eating around these times will give you a more authentic experience.

Can I find international food in Madrid?

Madrid offers food from all over the world! You can find delicious Italian, Japanese, Mexican, and Peruvian dishes, plus many more, right in the city.

Are food markets good places to eat in Madrid?

While some markets are great for eating, one famous market, Mercado de San Miguel, is mostly for tourists and can be pricey with okay food. It’s better to check out other markets or restaurants on this list for a better meal.

How were these restaurants chosen?

This list was put together by editors who know Madrid’s food scene well. They picked places based on amazing dishes, good locations, great service, and even if they care about sustainability and being welcoming to everyone.