More than simple dishes, tapas are an inherent and dynamic part of the Spanish lifestyle and culture. These small plates, ranging from simple bites like jamón ibérico, olives, or cheese, to complex items like croquetas or seasoned mushrooms, are not usually found on a printed menu. They represent a fluid, communal way of eating and socializing. Here are some of my favorite places and recommendations.
Mercado de San Miguel
Just steps away from Plaza Mayor sits one of Madrid’s most visited markets, the
celebrated Mercado de San Miguel. Serving patrons for over a century and drawing close to 10 million visitors annually, it’s a required stop for any foodie.
Between 30 and 40 stalls line the outer ring, offering a spectacular array of Spanish treats. You can feast on classic items like jamón ibérico, fine cheese, and croquetas, or explore specialties like oysters, the famous bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich), pulpo a la plancha (grilled octopus), or pulpo a la gallega (boiled Galician-style octopus). For dessert, you can even find ice cream from the pastry chef of a 3-Michelin Starred restaurant right in the market.
Most of the seating is centrally located, though you’ll find high top tables and barrels sprinkled around the edges, which are perfect for standing, eating, drinking, and socializing.
For beverages, the market is well-stocked. You can grab a nice glass of wine at spots like Pinkleton & Wine, choose from multiple beer stations, or, if you want to drink like a local, try some vermouth from La Hora Del Vermut.
I absolutely love walking in right when it opens at 10 AM, heading straight to one of the beer stalls, and ordering an Estrella on tap. Don’t judge me. Few things in life are better than an ice-cold Spanish beer to start the day.
Casa Toni
If you’re looking for an authentic Madrid tapas experience, put Casa Toni on your list. This famous spot is located at Calle de la Cruz, 14, right near the center of the street and bridging the Sol and Barrio de las Letras neighborhoods. They specialize in classic, hearty tapas. I would highly recommend you try the chorizo, the seasoned mushrooms, and my personal favorite, the mollejas (grilled sweetbreads). Just be prepared for a bit of a wait as the lines here are consistently long for this well-loved eatery!
Chocolatería San Ginés
Just steps from Plaza Mayor, Chocolatería San Ginés is a Madrid institution tucked away in Pasadizo de San Ginés, where it has been serving thick, velvety hot chocolate and freshly made churros for more than a century. Open 24 hours a day, this simple café-style spot is nestled in a narrow alleyway that captures the timeless charm of old Madrid. Arriving early in the morning offers a glimpse of the city’s nightlife fading away, with club-goers stopping in for one last indulgence before heading home. Whether you choose the large churros, the long skinny ones, or just a few small bites, each is perfectly crisp and made for dipping into the rich, molten chocolate. Though you can order online, the real magic is in being there in person, which is an experience that has become synonymous with Madrid itself.
La Mallorquina
La Mallorquina is a fantastic pastry shop located in the Puerta del Sol neighborhood of Madrid. You’ll often see lines of people waiting to buy their delicious treats, which range from tarts, pasteles, and macaroons to puff pastries. However, the true standout is their Napolitana de Crema, which is widely considered to be one of, if not the best, in all of Madrid.
La Casa del Abuelo
Situated right on the border of the Sol and Barrio de las Letras neighborhoods, is this historic tapas bar that has been serving Madrileños for almost 120 years. This spot is a must-visit for seafood lovers. You simply must try their famous gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). Cooked and served in a hot clay dish, it arrives at your table sizzling. The intense flavor is a classic and satisfying experience that captures the tradition of Madrid’s historic tapas scene.
Casa Lucio
Located in the La Latina neighborhood, Casa Lucio has been open for 50 years and has becom one of Madrid’s go to tapas restaurants. One of my favorite dishes is the huevos rotos where you get this glorious combo of fried eggs over crispy potatoes that is usually topped with either chorizo or jamón ibérico.
Bar La Paloma
Just a 5-minute walk from Casa Lucio, this La Latina eatery, is a go to spot for great seafood tapas.
Taberna La Concha
Taberna La Concha is another highly rated gem located on Madrid’s famous tapas street, Cava Baja. It’s an essential stop for vermouth lovers, as they serve one of the best versions around: a quality vermouth presented in a martini glass and expertly enhanced with a spritz of gin.
If you are planning to visit Madrid, I hope you enjoy Madrid’s tapas scene as much as I do! If you’re looking for a great way to explore it, I enthusiastically suggest a Tapas Food Tour. Devour Tours offers some fantastic options.
From the electric energy of the Mercado de San Miguel to the late-night warmth of a century-old chocolatería, Madrid’s tapas culture is less a meal and more a way of life. Every plate is a shared experience, whether you’re savoring sizzling shrimp in Sol or connecting over a perfect glass of vermouth in La Latina. The real magic is in the journey itself where wandering from bar to bar, tasting, talking, and feeling the genuine pulse of the city, one delicious bite at a time. Madrid invites you to step off the sidewalk, slow down, and surrender to the city’s irresistible, rhythmic charm.
What are some of your favorite places and where should I visit in December?
