Now that you have landed in Madrid, is time to savor the very best of the city:

TOP Restaurants you need to try before leaving Madrid: 👌🏻

Madrid’s dining scene is an amazing tapestry of flavors, blending time-honored traditions with bold, innovative cuisine. From Michelin-starred establishments to hidden gems, the city offers a culinary experience for every palate. Here’s a curated guide to some of Madrid’s finest restaurants, perfect for food lovers seeking unforgettable meals.

1. DiverXO
Tucked away in the Chamartín district, DiverXO remains the crown jewel of Madrid’s gastronomic landscape. Helmed by the visionary chef Dabiz Muñoz, this three-Michelin-star restaurant delivers a whirlwind of creativity. Expect avant-garde dishes that fuse global influences—think Mediterranean meets Asia—with theatrical presentations. The multi-course tasting menu is a sensory journey, where flavors like smoked eel with coconut or Peking duck reimagined as a taco dazzle the palate. Reservations are a must, and patience is rewarded with an unparalleled dining adventure.

2. Coque
In the heart of Madrid, Coque, led by the Sandoval brothers, is a two-Michelin-star haven for refined cuisine. This family-run restaurant combines tradition with innovation, offering tasting menus that celebrate Spain’s culinary heritage. From suckling pig roasted to perfection to delicate seafood creations, each dish is paired with wines from their exceptional cellar. The experience begins with a tour through the kitchen and wine vault, making it as immersive as it is delicious.

3. DSTAgE
Diego Guerrero’s DSTAgE is a love letter to creativity and freedom in cooking. With two Michelin stars, this industrial-chic spot in Chueca offers tasting menus that evolve with the seasons. Dishes like almond gazpacho or grilled octopus with kimchi showcase Guerrero’s knack for blending unexpected flavors. The open kitchen and casual vibe make it a favorite for those who want high-end dining without the stuffiness.

  1. La TasquerĂ­a
    For a modern take on Spanish offal, La Tasquería in Chamberí is a standout. Chef Javi Estévez transforms traditional “casquería” (offal-based dishes) into elegant creations. Think crispy pig’s ear or tender veal sweetbreads paired with vibrant sauces. It’s a bold yet approachable spot for adventurous eaters who want to explore Spain’s lesser-known culinary traditions.
  2. Sala de Despiece
    This quirky eatery in Chamberí feels like a butcher shop turned gourmet playground. With a menu that emphasizes high-quality cuts of meat and seafood, Sala de Despiece is all about bold flavors and playful presentations. Diners perch at a counter, watching chefs craft dishes like grilled Wagyu or razor clams with a zesty twist. It’s lively, unpretentious, and perfect for a night out with friends.
  3. Sacha
    A Madrid institution, Sacha is a bistro-style restaurant in Chamartín that feels like a well-kept secret. Known for its timeless charm, it serves classics like steak tartare and sole meunière alongside market-fresh specials. The cozy ambiance and impeccable service make it a go-to for those craving a taste of old-school Madrid elegance.
  4. Casa Lucio
    No list of Madrid’s best is complete without Casa Lucio, a legendary spot in La Latina. Famous for its “huevos estrellados” (fried eggs with potatoes), this restaurant has hosted everyone from royalty to Hollywood stars. Its traditional Castilian dishes, like roasted lamb and tripe stew, are comfort food elevated to an art form. Book early to secure a table in this iconic haunt.
  5. Lakasa
    Lakasa, located near Plaza de Castilla, is a modern tavern where chef CĂ©sar MartĂ­n works magic with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu is a love letter to Spanish produce, with dishes like artichoke confit or wild boar stew stealing the show. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and excellent wine list make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
  6. Desde 1911
    For seafood lovers, Desde 1911 offers a luxurious deep dive into Spain’s oceanic bounty. This intimate restaurant, part of the Pescaderías Coruñesas group, serves pristine fish and shellfish sourced daily. The tasting menu might include Galician percebes (goose barnacles) or red shrimp carpaccio, paired with crisp Albariño. It’s a splurge-worthy experience for those who worship the sea.

10. Horcher
A bastion of classic European fine dining, Horcher near Retiro Park exudes old-world sophistication. Established in 1943, it’s known for dishes like venison with red berries or its legendary baumkuchen dessert. The attentive service and opulent decor make it ideal for special occasions or a taste of Madrid’s aristocratic past.