Restaurants in Madrid: Top 5 Food Spots You’ll Love

Top 5 Madrid Restaurants

Our Top 5 Madrid Restaurants: What to Eat and How to Get There

Madrid is a city where the food scene is as lively as the streets themselves. From vibrant tacos to rich bowls of ramen and modern twists on Spanish classics, the culinary offerings here are a real treat. At Travel Gentlemen, we believe that travel is all about experiencing the best a city has to offer, and that includes the food. So, we’ve rounded up our top 5 favourite spots in Madrid right now – each one a unique gem that we can’t recommend enough.

In no particular order, here are our top 5 choices on where to eat at the heart of Madrid city. From the modest man, who fancies a hearty but still affordable meal to an exquisite dining experience that costs slightly more than your average bite for the adventurous quintessential gentleman. We got you covered. Let’s go!

1. Viva Madrid: (Un)Traditional Madrid Experience

About the Place

If you’re looking to taste the essence of Madrid, Viva Madrid is where you need to be. Located right in the heart of the city, this place oozes old-school charm. It’s a true slice of Madrid, with the kind of warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re a local. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual tapas meal or treating yourself to something a bit more indulgent, Viva Madrid is the real deal.

What It Is Known For

Viva Madrid is famous for its authentic atmosphere and traditional Spanish dishes. If you’re craving the taste of Madrid, this is the place to go.

The menu here is full of classic Spanish flavours. From crispy croquetas to patatas bravas, and, of course, the unbeatable jamón ibérico – every dish is a celebration of Spanish cuisine.
Check out the menu here

Food Recommendations

Our recommendations? You can’t go wrong with the roast suckling pig croquettes and smoked russian salad – they’re the heart and soul of Spanish tapas. Definitely don’t miss the jamón ibérico; it’s a must-try.

Cost

Viva Madrid is pretty easy on the wallet for the fair fellow. You’re looking at about €15-€25 for tapas, with main courses ranging from €18-€30. A glass of wine or a cocktail will set you back about €5-€8, so it’s perfect for a great meal without breaking the bank.

Address

C. de Manuel Fernandez y Gonzalez, nº 7, Centro, 28014 Madrid
View on Google Maps

Website/Instagram URL

Visit Viva Madrid’s website

Follow them on Instagram

Opening Times

Open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:30 AM

How to Get There

A short walk from Gran Vía metro station – perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner after a day of exploring the city.

The nearest metro station is Sevilla (Line 2). From Sevilla station, it’s a 5-minute walk to Viva Madrid. Alternatively, you can reach though Sol station (Lines 1, 2, and 3), which is an 8-minute walk away.

2. El Rey de los Tacos: A Taste of Mexico in Madrid

About the Place

If you’re in the mood for bold flavours, El Rey de los Tacos will hit the spot. This casual spot is a true taste of Mexico in Madrid. It’s got that relaxed, street-food vibe that makes it a perfect place to grab some tacos and kick back. With its vibrant decor and friendly energy, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to after your first visit.

What It Is Known For

It’s all about those tacos here – and the margaritas. This place has earned its reputation for offering some of the best Mexican street food in Madrid, all served in a super chill environment.

From tinga de pollo tacos to al pastor gringas, and not forgetting the fresh quesadillas, this menu is a fiesta of flavours. The margaritas are also on point – they’ll make your meal even better.
Check out the menu here

Food Recommendations

We strongly recommend the cochinita pibil quesadillas. For something with a bit of spice, the al pastor gringas are a must-try. And, of course, grab one of their margaritas to wash it all down.

Cost

El Rey de los Tacos is incredibly affordable. Tacos are around €2-€4 each, and a full meal including sides and a drink will run you about €10-€20. Great food at a great price for the modest man.

Address

Cuesta de Sto. Domingo, 8, Centro, 28013 Madrid
View on Google Maps

Website/Instagram URL

Visit El Rey de los Tacos’ website

Follow them on Instagram

Opening Times

Open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:30 AM.

How to Get There

It’s super easy to get to – just a 4-minute walk from Callao metro station. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

The closest metro station is Santo Domingo (Line 2). From Santo Domingo station, it’s a quick 3-minute walk to El Rey de los Tacos.

3. Chuka Ramen Bar: Ramen with a Twist

About the Place

For something comforting yet exciting, head over to Chuka Ramen Bar. It brings the warmth of Japanese ramen with a modern twist, making it a favourite for anyone craving a satisfying meal. The minimalist setting and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot to enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen, whether you’re a long-time ramen lover or a first-timer.

What It Is Known For

Chuka Ramen Bar is all about flavour-packed, hearty bowls of ramen made with top-notch ingredients. If you’re in the mood for Japanese comfort food, this is your place.

The menu here has everything from rich tonkotsu ramen to tasty roast pork belly bun, and they also offer gyoza dumplings as a tasty side.
Check out the menu here

Food Recommendations

We highly recommend the Char sui de abanico – tasty iberian pork barbecue with karashi mustard. Try the delicious Tokyo Shoyu ramen too. Don’t skip the gyoza de vaca madura dumplings – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.

Cost

Chuka Ramen Bar is a great value for its quality. Ramen bowls range from €10-€18, and sides like gyoza are around €5-€8. It’s affordable, especially considering how good the food is. Perfect for the fair fellow.

Address

Calle de Echegaray, 9, Centro, 28014 Madrid
View on Google Maps

Website/Instagram URL

Visit Chuka Ramen Bar’s website

Follow them on Instagram

Opening Times

Open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 1:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

How to Get There

Easily accessible from Sol metro station – perfect for a quick ramen stop in between sightseeing.

The nearest metro stations are Sevilla (Line 2), a 5-minute walk, and Sol (Lines 1, 2, and 3), a 7-minute walk.

4. Ochenta Grados Malasaña: Modern Dining Twist

About the Place

Located in the heart of Malasaña, Ochenta Grados serves up modern takes on Spanish classics, and it does it with style. The intimate vibe makes it perfect for a night out, whether you’re celebrating or just enjoying some seriously good food. With its creative menu and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, this place is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for something a little more elevated.

What It Is Known For

Ochenta Grados is known for its innovative takes on Spanish food, blending traditional Mediterranean ingredients with modern culinary techniques. It’s perfect for a memorable dinner.

From Iberian ham croquettes to steak tartar, Ochenta Grados brings Mediterranean flavours to life with a modern spin. They’ve also got pulled pork vindaloo bun if you fancy something spicy and sweet.
Check out the menu here

Food Recommendations

We recommend the rib sandwich – it’s truly a yummy sandwich stuffed with ribs cooked at low temperature. The truffled egg is another standout – beautifully cooked string potatoes topped with ham powder. If you’re after something fresh and light, the quinoa salad is a great option.

Cost

Ochenta Grados is a little on the pricier side for the quintessential gentleman. Expect to pay €20-€35 for a main, with a full meal (including drinks) averaging around €40-€50. It’s a little splurge-worthy, but totally worth it for the quality and experience.

Address

C. de Manuela Malasaña, 10, Centro, 28004 Madrid
View on Google Maps

Website/Instagram URL

Visit Ochenta Grados’ website

Follow them on Instagram

Opening Times

Open daily, 1:00 PM to 12:30 AM

How to Get There

Located near Tribunal metro station, it’s easy to reach and right in one of Madrid’s most vibrant districts.

The closest metro station is Tribunal (Lines 1 and 10). From Tribunal station, it’s a 4-minute walk to Ochenta Grados Malasaña.


5. Sala de Despiece (SDD2): A Culinary Adventure

Sala de Despiece (SDD2)

About the Place

For those who want something truly unique, Sala de Despiece is the place to be. It’s a dining experience like no other, where the food is as much about artistry as it is about flavour. With a butcher’s shop vibe and a menu full of creative, deconstructed dishes, Sala de Despiece offers an unforgettable meal that’s definitely worth the adventure.

What It Is Known For

This restaurant is famous for its bold approach to food, offering deconstructed dishes that push the boundaries of traditional dining. It’s a must for foodies looking for something out of the ordinary.

The menu features daring, deconstructed dishes like piquillo peppers cooked in open fire, ‘revolcona’ potato sandwich, and the delicious confit-fried artichokes.
Check out the menu here

Food Recommendations

Our top picks? The chuleton with tomato and olive oil is to die for. The rolex is delicate yet flavoursome mix of egg yolk, bacon, foie and truffle, and if you’re feeling bold, the torched monkfish will definitely impress.

Cost

Sala de Despiece is a bit of a splurge, with full meals typically costing €40-€70 per person. While it’s on the higher end, the experience and the creativity behind the dishes make it totally worth it for the quintessential gentleman.

Address

C. de la Virgen de los Peligros, 8, 28013 Madrid
View on Google Maps

Website/Instagram URL

Visit Sala de Despiece’s website

Follow them on Instagram

Opening Times

Open daily from 1:00 PM to 12:30 AM

How to Get There

Located near the Sevilla metro station, it’s easy to find and right in one of Madrid’s most food-centric districts.

The nearest metro station is Sevilla (Line 2). From the station, it’s a 2-minute walk to Sala de Despiece 2.

Summing Up…

Madrid is a foodie’s city, it’s a feast for the senses. From mouth-watering tacos to soul-warming ramen and bold culinary adventures, these five spots are sure to leave you craving more. So, grab your appetite, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, and dive into some of the most unforgettable dining experiences Madrid has to offer. Trust us, your tastebuds are in for a treat!

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