The best restaurants in Madrid
Madrid is a city with many great and famous restaurants. If we only count the Michelin star restaurants in Madrid there are no fewer than 24, and Spain as a whole has over 200 stars. The Spanish capital has a large selection of creative recipes that will inspire its guests. In cities like Madrid food isn’t just an art, it’s a culture.Because of this it is our great pleasure to compile a list of some of our favorite restaurants here in Madrid, trust us when we say it the research for this article was most enjoyable.
1. Sobrino de Botin
Sobrino de Botin (founded in 1725) according to the Guinness Book of Records the oldest restaurant not only in Madrid but in the world. It is located in one of the old quarters of the city, near the Plaza Mayor. A restaurant this old must have some good stories to it you would think, and you would be right! Great writer Hemingway often dined here and worked as a dishwasher at Goya. In addition to the ancient decor of the 18th century, the building has a wood-burning stove, which, like centuries ago, cooks piglets and lamb with a crispy crust. The restaurant specializes in Castilian cuisine. In addition to juicy fried meat, Sobrino de Botin should order traditional Spanish stew, squid in ink sauce, and for dessert – a layer cake with tarta Botín cream. The place is popular among tourists, but locals come here on special occasions. The average bill is surprisingly affordable for what would otherwise seem like a once in a lifetime experience at 35-40 € per person.
2. Santceloni
Santceloni, one of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Madrid, is located in the Hotel Hesperia Madrid. Since the opening in 2001 to the present, the team leading the restaurant has remained unchanged. The interior of this restaurant is simple and modern, it does not distract from the gourmet cuisine, and the menu includes fresh products from the local morning market. The signature dish is duck lasagna with pistachios and cardamom; it is customary to order a plate with exclusive cheeses for wine.
The cost of the main courses – from 50 €. Santceloni also hosts a cigar club – a stylish space with glass windows and smoke exhaust which make for a great place to relax and social with your friends.
3. La Sirena Verde
La Sirena Verde – one of the best fish restaurants in Madrid, founded in 1969. La Sirena Verde occupies 2 floors on Madrid’s Gran Via the main street and has a restaurant for 220 people. On the first floor, there is a large space with tables and a bar, and on the second there are several salons, from which a bewitching view of the city opens. The food is complemented by an extensive offer of Spanish wines specially made for the restaurant. The average bill is 25-30 €.
4. Ático
Ático is an informal place for casual dining. But still one of Madrid’s most prestigious restaurants due to the outstanding courses they serve. Located on the 6th floor of the Hotel Principal Madrid. The chef prepares traditional dishes, the heritage of various regions of Spain, and offers a menu with an emphasis on modern cuisine. At Ático you can reserve balconies with tables for two people. In the glazed gazebos, guests can enjoy house made recipes of what is now copyright protected cocktails. The average bill is 40-55 €.
5. A’Barra
A’Barra is a one-star restaurant located in the Salamanca area. Guests who choose can choose where to eat: in a spacious hall or around the bar counter that offers an open view of the kitchen in the center – where you can observe the chefs preparing your meal. The kitchen is quite creative and unusual. Everything is served with great fiction and grace, and an experienced sommelier will always help with the choice of wine. The restaurant is ideal for romantic dinners and special occasions. The tasting even if on the pricey side is well worth it for a special occasion, expect to pay 95 € for a menu.
Spain is one of Europe’s best destinations for food lovers and Madrid is right in the middle of it all. With the country’s tapas culture, Mediterranean cuisine and rich regional gastronomic offerings all coming together in the capital, travellers are spoiled for choice.If you come to Spain we guarantee you will be happy from your gourmet choices.
