The Best Tapas in Madrid

Madrid isn’t just Spain’s capital — it’s a culinary playground where tapas culture thrives. From old-school taverns with standing-room-only crowds to modern gastro bars redefining tradition, this city celebrates food as a social ritual. Whether you’re hopping from bar to bar in La Latina or sitting down for an elegant tasting in Salamanca, you’ll find that every plate tells a story.

If you’re wondering where to find the best tapas in Madrid, we’ve rounded up our favorites, hidden gems, and classic institutions that capture the spirit (and flavor) of the city.

What Are Tapas, Anyway?

Before you dive fork-first into Madrid’s tapas scene, let’s start with what they are. Tapas are small, shareable dishes served with drinks — think cured ham, croquetas, tortilla española, patatas bravas, and marinated anchovies. Originally meant to “cover” a drink (the word tapa literally means lid), they’ve evolved into a full-blown culinary art form and social tradition.

Top Neighborhoods for the Best Tapas in Madrid

La Latina

This is the heart of Madrid’s tapas crawl scene. Wander along Calle de la Cava Baja and Calle de la Cava Alta, where nearly every doorway hides a lively tapas bar.

Don’t Miss:

● Casa Lucio – Famous for its huevos rotos (fried eggs over fries and jamón).

● La Perejila – Bright green walls, Andalusian flair, and standout shrimp dishes.

● Taberna La Concha – Known for creative tapas and an impressive vermouth selection.

Malasaña

Trendy and youthful, Malasaña mixes classic bites with a modern twist. It’s where you’ll find tapas paired with craft beers, creative cocktails, and even vegan options.

Local Favorites:

● Bodega de la Ardosa – A historic stop (opened in 1892!) known for salmorejo and croquetas de jamón.

● Ochenta Grados – Modern tapas with playful presentations — think mini sliders, tuna tartare cones, and truffled potatoes.

● Casa Camacho – No-frills and very local. Try their signature “yayos” cocktail (gin, vermouth, and soda) with classic tapas.

Lavapiés

Multicultural and artistic, Lavapiés fuses Spanish tradition with global influences. It’s a great area for trying tapas with international flair.

Try These Spots:

● El Sur – A neighborhood favorite for generous portions and homestyle cooking.

● Distrito Vegano – 100% plant-based tapas like “pulpo” made from mushroom and smoked paprika.

● Los Chuchis – British-owned but Madrid-loved — their slow-cooked pork and Sunday roasts are legendary.

Barrio de las Letras

Once home to literary greats like Cervantes and Lope de Vega, this area now brims with stylish tapas bars and wine taverns.

Highlights:

● Casa González – A cheese and wine bar with over a century of history.

● La Venencia – A sherry-only bar frozen in time — no photos allowed!

● Taberna del Chato – Tapas served in little wine glasses (chatos), a nod to classic Madrid presentation.

Chamberí & Salamanca

For an upscale experience, these neighborhoods offer refined tapas in elegant surroundings.

Where to Go:

● Santceloni Bar – Michelin-level flavors in small bites.

● Ten con Ten – Chic and modern, perfect for tapas with friends before a night out.

● Bodega de la Ardosa (Chamberí location) – Old-school Madrid charm with impeccable jamón ibérico and vermouth

Tapas to Try in Madrid

Start with these must-try dishes:

● Tortilla Española – The famous Spanish omelet with potatoes and onions.

● Croquetas – Crispy bites filled with béchamel and ham, cheese, or cod.

● Patatas Bravas – Fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.

● Pulpo a la Gallega – Octopus drizzled with olive oil and paprika.

● Jamón Ibérico de Bellota – A national treasure: cured ham from acorn-fed pigs.

● Gambas al Ajillo – Shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil.

Insider Experience: Tapas Hopping Like a Local

● Start around 8:30 PM. Madrid’s tapas scene comes alive at night.

● Order one or two tapas per stop — and a small drink, usually a caña (beer) or vino tinto (red wine).

● Mingle and stand at the bar. It’s part of the culture!

● Don’t skip the markets. Try Mercado de San Miguel or Mercado de San Antón for gourmet tapas in one spot.

Madrid’s tapas culture is more than just a way to eat — it’s how the city connects, celebrates, and shares life. Whether you’re sipping Rioja in a 19th-century tavern or savoring fusion bites in a modern bar, each tapa is a small taste of Madrid’s big heart.

So next time you’re in Spain’s capital, hopefully on a Travec Madrid tour!, skip the full-course dinner and dive into the tapas crawl — one bite, one bar, one unforgettable night at a time.