Madrid did not invent paella, it does not have the sea there for the famous fresh fish from Spain and it does not have as many restaurants with three Michelin stars as San Sebastián. But Madrid is still one of the best places to eat in Spain.
In addition to the classic Madrid dishes listed below, Madrid can also offer you dishes from all regions of Spain, as well as many Latin restaurants opened by the vast Hispanic diaspora that has settled in the city.
Madrid restaurants are also surprisingly cheap: cheaper than those in the north of the country. And there are far fewer tourist traps than you’ll find in Barcelona.
And that little problem that there is no ocean nearby? It is not a problem when the best restaurants in the capital fly their fish twice a day from the coast.
Madrid stew
A stew consisting of chickpeas, vegetables, and various cuts of pork, Cocido Madrileño is a substantial meal, so it should be served in two servings (first the soup, then the meat and vegetables).
Where to get Cocido Madrileño in Madrid: Malacatin is one of the most famous places in Madrid to get Cocido.
Churros with chocolate
This famous fried dough, served with the thickest hot chocolate you’ve ever seen, can be found all over Spain, but nowhere are churros better than Madrid.
Where to get chocolate with churros in Madrid: Chocolateria de San Ginés , near Sol.
Roast Suckling Pig (Roast Suckling Pig)
A regional specialty that is difficult to make correctly, due to its long preparation time.
Where to get Roast Suckling Pig in Madrid: El Sobrino de Botin (commonly known as ‘ El Botin ‘) is the oldest restaurant in the world and was Hemingway’s favorite restaurant (he says so much in his book The Sun Also Rises ). It also makes a great roast suckling pig. The kitchen constantly prepares the pig, so you are guaranteed the freshest dishes at all times.
Squid sandwich
The battered squid rings, served on a crunchy roll, are another Madrid classic. This is another dish that is often poorly served, unless the squid is fried recently it can be very tough, so make sure you choose your restaurant correctly.
Where to get Bocadillo de Calamares in Madrid: The Brillante , right in front of the Atocha train station, says it makes the best squid sandwiches in Madrid, and few disagree!
Madrid-style tripe
This is absolute guts. No, seriously, it’s a gut. It’s not for everyone (apparently an acquired taste) but it’s worth looking for if it’s your kind of thing.
Where to get Tripe a la Madrileña in Madrid: Several places in Cava Baja serve tripe, the most famous being La Chata.
