Best Tapas In Madrid

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

As the evening sets over the enchanting streets of Madrid, an intoxicating aroma fills the air. It's a savory blend of garlic, olive oil, and spices that beckons food lovers from all corners of the globe. In this fabulous city known for its rich culinary heritage, tapas reign supreme.

Having explored every nook and cranny to unearth the true gems, I bring you a list of the best tapas bars in Madrid. From traditional taverns serving mouthwatering patatas bravas to modern gastrobars pushing boundaries with their innovative creations, these hidden culinary treasures are waiting to be discovered.

1. La Casa del Abuelo

La Casa Del Abuelo is a tapas bar that has been serving traditional Spanish cuisine since 1906. Located in the center of Madrid, this local favorite is known for its delicious garlic shrimp, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

Apart from the shrimp, La Casa Del Abuelo also offers a variety of other tapas, including cured meats, chorizo, and Manchego cheese. The bar also serves fresh seafood, such as anchovies and squid, and offers a range of raciones, or larger plates, for those looking for a more substantial meal.

One of the highlights of La Casa Del Abuelo is its Iberian ham, which is of exceptional quality and is served alongside other cured meats. The bar also offers a range of vermouths and champagnes to accompany your meal.

If you're looking for a lunch spot, La Casa Del Abuelo is a great choice. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy some Spanish comfort food.

Located on the bustling Cava Baja street, La Casa Del Abuelo is a great stop on any tapas bar crawl. The bar also offers a range of pinchos, or small plates, which are perfect for sharing with friends.

Contact:

Address: Calle de Goya, 57A, 28001 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 910 00 01 33

2. Casa Toni

Casa Toni is one of the most popular places to eat tapas in Madrid, located in the Barrio de las Letras neighborhood. This classic Madrid restaurant has been around for over 40 years and has a great reputation for its traditional Spanish range of tapas.

The menu at Casa Toni is extensive, featuring a wide variety of tapas, including patatas bravas, garlic shrimp, anchovies, artichokes, squid, and much more. The tapas are reasonably priced and are perfect for sharing with friends.

One of the best dishes at Casa Toni is the oil-cooked prawns, which are incredibly flavorful and juicy. The croquettes are also a must-try, especially the chicken and bacon ones. The tosta with cured meat and onion is another delicious option that you shouldn't miss.

The restaurant is usually packed, so be prepared to wait for a table. However, the wait is definitely worth it, as the tapas and drinks are exceptional.

Contact:

Address: C. de la Cruz, 14, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 915 32 25 80

3. Taberna El Sur

Taberna El Sur is a must-visit tapas bar in Madrid, located in the heart of the Lavapiés neighborhood. This cozy and friendly establishment offers authentic Spanish food at an affordable price, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists on a trip to Madrid.

The menu at El Sur features a variety of traditional tapas, including patatas bravas, chorizo, and croquettes, as well as more unique options like artichokes with garlic and cured meat tostas. The star of the show, however, is their Iberian ham, which is a must-try for any ham lover.

In addition to the perfect tapas, Taberna El Sur also offers a great selection of wine and vermouth to pair with your tapas. And if you're looking for a lively atmosphere, the wine bar stays open until 2am, making it a popular spot for a late-night tapas crawl.

Contact:

Address: C. de la Torrecilla del Leal, 12, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 915 27 83 40

4. Casa Revuelta

Casa Revuelta is a traditional and authentic tapas bar located in Madrid de Los Austrias, less than two minutes from Plaza Mayor. Founded by Santiago Revuelta in 1966, it has become one of the best places for tapas in Madrid.

The bar is always packed with locals and tourists, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. The walls are covered in photos and memorabilia, giving the place a cozy and welcoming feel.

One of the must-try dishes at Casa Revuelta is their famous "Soldaditos de Pavía," which are small pieces of codfish wrapped in batter and fried until crispy. They are served hot and are incredibly delicious.

Another popular dish is the "Callos," a stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage). It's a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine.

Casa Revuelta also offers a great selection of the best wines and beers to accompany your meal. The staff is very friendly and always willing to recommend the perfect pairing for your dish.

Contact:

Address: C. de Latoneros, 3, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 913 66 33 32

5. Bodega de la Ardosa

Bodega de la Ardosa is a historic tapas bar located in the Universidad neighborhood of Madrid. It has been serving locals and tourists for over 127 years. The bar is known for its wood-paneled interior, cobwebbed bottles, and engraved beer taps, which all add to the bar's unique atmosphere.

The bar offers a wide selection of original tapas, including traditional Spanish dishes such as tortilla de patatas, croquetas, and jamón ibérico. They also have a variety of wines and beers to choose from. One of the most popular dishes is their famous "patatas bravas," which are crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce.

Bodega de la Ardosa is a favorite place and popular spot among locals, so it can get quite busy during peak hours. The bar does not take reservations, so it's best to arrive early to avoid a long wait. The indoor seating is limited, and there is no outdoor seating available. However, the bar's cozy atmosphere and delicious food make it worth the visit.

Contact:

Address: C. de Colón, 13, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 915 21 49 79

6. Juana La Loca

I recently visited Juana La Loca in Madrid's La Latina neighborhood near the Royal Palace, and it was an excellent experience. The restaurant is small and cozy, with a charming rustic decor that adds to its overall ambiance.

The menu offers a range of traditional Spanish old-school tapas, with a focus on quality ingredients and authentic flavors. I highly recommend trying their famous tortilla de patata, which is cooked to perfection and loaded with caramelized onions. Their croquetas are also a must-try, with a creamy and flavorful filling that melts in your mouth.

The waiting staff at Juana La Loca are friendly and knowledgeable, and they will be more than happy to recommend their favorite dishes or suggest a wine pairing. The prices are fair, considering the quality of the food and the ultimate tapas experience.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de Prta de Moros, 4, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 913 64 05 25

7. Mercado De San Miguel

One of the most popular places to experience the best tapas in Madrid is the Mercado de San Miguel. Located in the city center of Madrid, this historic market offers a wide variety of tapas dishes from different regions of Spain.

The Mercado de San Miguel is not just a tapas bar, but a tapas market. It is a covered market that was built in 1919 and has 20 stalls selling all kinds of tapas, including fresh seafood, Iberian ham, and Spanish cheeses. It is a great place to try a variety of different tapas in one location.

The market has a lively and bustling atmosphere, with both locals and tourists enjoying the food and drink on offer. The stalls are arranged in a circular shape, making it easy to navigate and explore. There are also plenty of tables and chairs set up throughout the market, making it a great place to sit and enjoy your tapas.

One of the most popular stalls in the market is the one selling oysters. They are freshly shucked and served with a glass of champagne. Another popular stall is the one selling Iberian ham, which is sliced to order and served with bread and olive oil.

The Mercado de San Miguel is open every day of the week, making it a great place to visit any time of the day. It can get quite busy during peak hours, so it is best to visit during off-peak hours if you want to avoid the crowds.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de San Miguel, s/n, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 915 42 49 36

8. Taberna Real

Taberna Real is a traditional Spanish tapas restaurant situated in the heart of Madrid. The restaurant is run by the Pardellas Rivera brothers (Manuel, Cesáreo, José and Abelardo) who come from a long line of chefs, bakers, and waiters. The restaurant is well-known for its authentic Spanish dishes and excellent service.

The menu at Taberna Real features a wide variety of traditional classic Spanish dishes, including tapas, seafood, and meat dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include the paella, the grilled octopus, and the Iberian ham. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring some of the best Spanish wines.

The atmosphere at Taberna Real is warm and welcoming, with a rustic decor that adds to the charm of the gourmet restaurant. So during your time in Madrid, be sure to check out Taberna Real for an authentic Spanish dining experience.

Contact:

Address: Pl. de Isabel II, 8, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 915 59 69 22

9. La Campana

La Campana is one of the oldest and most traditional tapas bars in Madrid, Spain, located in the Austrias neighborhood. This amazing tapas bar in Madrid has been serving up delicious tapas since 1856 and has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists coming to Madrid.

This no-frills tapas bar has a cozy and rustic atmosphere with its wooden interior and traditional decor. The walls are adorned with bullfighting posters and photos of famous patrons who have visited the bar over the years.

La Campana is known for its famous dish, the "Soldaditos de Pavía," which are thin strips of battered and fried cod. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a side of alioli sauce. Other must-try dishes include the "Callos a la Madrileña," a spicy tripe stew, and the "Gambas al Ajillo," garlic shrimp.

Contact:

Address: C. de Botoneras, 6, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 913 64 29 84

10. Casa Baranda

Casa Baranda is a trendy tapas bar situated in the Universidad neighborhood of Madrid. The restaurant boasts a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends.

The menu at Casa Baranda features a variety of Mediterranean and Spanish dishes, including classic tapas like patatas bravas and croquetas de jamón. The restaurant is also known for its delicious seafood tapas, such as the grilled octopus and the prawn skewers.

In addition to the plates of food, Casa Baranda offers an extensive wine list, with options from all over Spain. The knowledgeable bar staff is happy to recommend pairings to complement your meal.

Prices are reasonable, with tapas ranging from €3-€10 and a glass of wine starting at €3.50. Reservations are recommended, as the tapas restaurant can get quite busy during peak hours.

Contact:

Address: C. de Colón, 11, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Phone: +34 911 37 30 19

More Madrid Travel Resources