A Guide to Madrid's Food: From Sangria to Tapas

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s incredible food and drink scene. From refreshing sangria to mouth-watering tapas and hearty stews, Madrid has something to offer every type of foodie. Here’s a guide to the best food and drink experiences in Madrid.

Sip your way through the best sangria in Madrid:

If you’re in Madrid and looking for the perfect spot to enjoy some sangria, we’ve got you covered. From trendy beach bars to traditional underground caves, there’s something for everyone in this city. Here are our top three picks:

Ojala – For a Chill Vibe

If you want a chill vibe, Ojala is the place to be. This trendy bar in the vibrant neighbourhood of Malasada features a whole floor covered in beach sand. Creating a fun and laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a casual brunch. In addition to their famous sand-covered lower floor, Ojalá also boasts a hanging garden on the upper level, complete with umbrella ribs and lush greenery. And of course, no visit to Ojalá is complete without trying their famous sangria. A delicious blend of wine, fruit, and spices that’s perfect for sipping when you want to experience island vibes in this landlocked city.

El Tigre – For Something Bustling

If you want something bustling, head to El Tigre. Situated just a street away from the famous Gran Via, this spot is virtually always brimming with people – and for good reason. They serve generous servings of tapas alongside their famous sangria, making it the perfect place to enjoy some delicious food and drinks with friends.

Las Cuevas De Sesamo – For Tradition

For those looking to follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway, Juliette Greco, Ava Gardner, and Jean Cocteau, Las Cuevas De Sesamo is a must-visit. This bar is based in an underground cave and provides a romantic setting with a live pianist serenading you while you enjoy your sweet wine. It’s definitely a hidden gem – its small exterior makes it easy to miss, but once you find it, you won’t want to leave. Their sangria is a house specialty it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the rich culture and history of Madrid.

Madrid food tour itinerary:

If you’re a foodie planning a trip to Madrid, there’s no better way to explore the local cuisine than by going on a food tour. Madrid offers an amazing gastronomic experience with a wide variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. With a food tour, you can sample some of the city’s best bites and learn about the history and culture behind the cuisine. From savoury and sweet to spicy and flavourful, Madrid’s food scene has something for everyone. Though, from experience the online tours can be pricey. If you are looking for an independent route check out the one I did below:

1:00 PM – Start your food crawl at Taberna Tempranillo and sample some of their delicious Basque-style pinchos.

2:00 PM – Head over to Casa Lucio for their famous huevos rotos (broken eggs with ham or chorizo).

3:00 PM – Make your way to Casa Toni and try their mollejas (lamb sweetbreads).

4:00 PM – Visit La Casa del Abuelo for their classic gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).

5:00 PM – Stop by the Museo del Jamon and enjoy some jamon and queso (cured ham and cheese) with a glass of wine.

If you have some extra money to spend, I highly recommend joining a guided food tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who can provide valuable insights into Madrid’s culinary culture. Including how each dish is traditionally prepared and enjoyed. Not only will you get to taste a variety of delicious foods, but you’ll also learn about the city’s history and culture. Here are my suggestions below:

Foods to try in Madrid:

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish cuisine, we challenge you to check off all of our foods to try in Madrid list. Comment below what number you get to:

Madrid Specialities

Cocido Madrileño – Spanish pork stew with chickpeas, chorizo, and vegetables, perfect for winter.
Huevos Rotos – Fried potatoes with over-easy eggs, a typical meat-and-potatoes dish in Madrid.
Bocadillo de Calamares – Famous sandwich made of flour-coated, deep-fried squid rings in crusty bread.
Callos a la Madrileña – Savory beef tripe, chorizo, and blood sausage stew with paprika, perfect for cold weather.
Churros con Chocolate – Fried dough served with thick hot chocolate, perfect for an afternoon snack or breakfast.
Oreja a la Plancha – Pan-seared pig ear sprinkled with salt or paprika, a bold dish for adventurous eaters.
Tortilla de Patatas – Potato omelet with different variations like caramelized onions, mushrooms, sausage, or peppers.
Croquetas – Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, savory croquettes with fillings like jamón, mushroom or salt cod.
Gambas al Ajillo – Fresh shrimp sautéed in garlic sauce, a seafood dish despite Madrid being a landlocked city.
Pisto – Slow-cooked vegetable stew, similar to ratatouille, perfect for chilly days.
Huevos Rellenos – Spanish-style deviled eggs.

Regional Specialties

Pulpo a la Gallega – Boiled octopus served with olive oil, paprika and salt, a traditional dish from Galicia.
Paella – Famous rice dish with saffron, vegetables and seafood or meat, originating from Valencia.
Fabada Asturiana – Hearty bean stew with chorizo and pork, a staple of Asturias cuisine.
Gazpacho – Cold soup made with ripe tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, and garlic, perfect for hot summer days.
Ensalada Mixta – Mixed salad with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, tuna, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, a common dish in Spanish households.
Empanada Gallega – Traditional Galician pie with a flaky crust and savory fillings like tuna, cod, or meat.
Patatas Bravas – Fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce, a popular tapa in Spain.
Tortilla Española – Spanish omelet made with potatoes, onions, and eggs, a classic dish found all over Spain.
Pulpo a Feira – Octopus boiled and sprinkled with olive oil, salt, and paprika, a specialty of Galicia.

My favourite eats in Madrid:

During my visit to Madrid, I discovered three restaurants that captured my heart. One of which will remain a favourite for a lifetime. If you’re looking for good food in Madrid, I highly recommend the following:

DISCLAIMER YOU MUST GO HERE:

Takos El Pastor:

If you’re in the mood for some of the best tacos in Madrid (and potentially the world, as far as my palate is concerned), then Takos El Pastor should be at the top of your list. With a 10,000-strong army of Google reviewers backing up its reputation, it’s no surprise that there is often a long queue outside. But trust me when I say the wait is worth it! The prices are incredibly reasonable, with a single taco costing just one euro. My suggestion? Order a plate of two of each flavour and discover your favourite. I can guarantee you’ll want to return for seconds.

Chocolateria San Ginés:

For a traditional taste of Spain, look no further than Chocolateria San Ginés. Established in 1894, this café serves up some of the best churros you’ll find in the city. Served with a steaming hot cup of chocolate and accompanied by coffee and pastries if you wish. It’s easy to see why this place is a favourite among locals and celebrities alike (their photos adorn the walls). While Chocolateries San Ginés has expanded to multiple locations, be sure to try the original when you’re in Madrid.

Amazonico:

For a more upscale dining experience, Amazonico offers a unique culinary journey through Latin America. This restaurant is simply stunning, especially during the summer months when it feels like you’re dining in a tropical paradise. The food is beautifully presented, and the service is impeccable. Don’t miss their live jungle jazz club, featuring talented Spanish musicians. And if you’re looking for a sweet treat to end your meal, I highly recommend the Passionate Soup – it’s my all-time favourite dessert.