Foodie Madrid

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for food lovers. From traditional tapas to indulgent sweets, the culinary scene here is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in history.

,I hadn’t been in this gorgeous city in more than 20 years so it was almost like visiting for the first time, with grown up (and foodie) eyes.

Of course this list, like any of my foodie travel lists, is by no means exhaustive. Your girl was there for all of 4 days and if I had managed to try all I had wanted to try, I probably would have had to eat at two hour intervals (which, don’t get me wrong, I was definitely up for, my stomach sadly wasn't).

One thing I love about Spanish culture in general is their love of sharing food, getting many little plates of joy everyone can get a taste of. The fresh produce, delicious fish, meats, all create a very flavourful cuisine, often deep fried, always delicious.

A few types of food you should try not to miss in Madrid are their little tapas such as patatas bravas, croquétas de jamón, gambas al ajillo, the cocido madrileño (of which I sadly didn’t get a taste :((() - a stew of chickpeas, meat and vegetables, the delectable churros con chocolate or the tortilla española - you’d think nothing can be so special about eggs and potatoes, but the way they make it is divine.

When it comes to spots worth making the hike for, here are a few I absolutely loved and that I think you would love, too:

1. Mercado de San Miguel

Touristy as it may be, this vibrant market is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a variety of tapas, gourmet foods, and wines. It’s the perfect spot to sample different dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Is it crowded? Absolutely, probably why it would be better to save your visit for off season.

2. Chocolatería San Ginés

This iconic chocolatería is renowned for its churros con chocolate. Open since 1894, it’s a must-visit: the chocolate is thick and indulgent, perfect for dipping. I am sure there are better churrerias around the city and you can do the fun task of trying them all, but this one is a sure spot, made quite evident by the long queues. You can also bring home a pack of their hot chocolate preparation which is incredible and which I ate with shortbread, given the lack of churros at my house.

3. Sisapo

Highlighted by the Bib Gourmand, Sisapo is an incredibly refined take on Spanish cuisine, with what has to be the best torta de queso I have ever had in my life. Their little terrace is so lovely and you can order plates to share, of course.

4. Bocadillo de jamon

I had mine at Viandas but there are many places that serve delicious ones. These sandwiches are incredible through their simplicity: fresh bread, olive oil, jamón (they can add cheese and some garlicky tomato purée, which I totally recommend, but you can also keep it super simple). The ingredients shine and I can promise you that good Spanish jamón cut on the spot for you is like no other.

5. ALCARAVEA

With a few locations around Madrid, this restaurant takes the freshest produce and transforms it in one of the best meals I have had in my life. Generously sprinkled with olive oil, fresh tomatoes and tuna shine into a new dimension, in a salad so delicious you think you’ll never want to eat anything else ever again.

This only lasts until the first bite of courgette flowers, stuffed with the creamiest cheese, fried and served on a bed of ratatouille. And you keep saying this with every course. I would have ordered the whole menu but sadly, our friendly and knowledgeable waiter wouldn’t let me :(. It’s ok, I will be back for sure.

Let me know your favourite spots in Madrid, as well as the ones you are dreaming to try!