Discover and savour the delicious cuisine of Madrid

Unveiling Madrid’s culinary secrets

Madrid’s gastronomy is as rich as it is diverse, and around every corner, you can find a piece of the city’s history in the form of traditional dishes. From century-old taverns to Michelin-starred restaurants, Madrid is a top culinary destination. Cocido madrileño, callos a la madrileña, and besugo al horno are just a few examples of the city’s enduring culinary heritage. To enjoy these dishes, it’s best to seek out traditional restaurants near the city centre or explore neighbourhoods like Chamberí and La Latina, where Madrid’s gastronomy stays true to its roots.

In addition to main dishes, Madrid’s bars and taverns are famous for their tapas. If you like to snack before a main meal, or even make tapas your lunch or dinner, Madrid is the perfect place. Don’t miss out on crispy patatas bravas or a classic Spanish omelette. These small treats are part of daily life in Madrid, and you’ll find delicious homemade versions in any neighbourhood bar.

Madrid’s traditional dishes

Eating in Madrid is an experience that connects you with its history. Here are some of the city’s most representative dishes:

Cocido Madrileño

Arguably the city’s most iconic dish, cocido madrileño is a hearty stew made with chickpeas, various meats (such as blood sausage, chorizo, and ham), and vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Traditionally, it’s served in three stages: the soup, the chickpeas, and the meats. Cocido is ideal for the colder months and can be found in places like La Bola or Malacatín, two historic restaurants specialising in this dish. It’s not uncommon to see families gathered around a large pot of cocido on Sundays, sharing both food and the stories it evokes.

Callos a la Madrileña

Callos is another quintessentially Madrid dish that embodies the essence of the city’s cuisine. This tripe stew is cooked with chorizo, blood sausage, and paprika, creating a rich and distinctive flavour. While it’s not for everyone, those who try it are often delighted. Taverns like Casa Lucio and El Sobrino de Botín, both near Ocean Drive Madrid, are excellent places to sample this delicacy. While recipes vary slightly between establishments, the intense and spicy flavours are a common feature.

Besugo a la Madrileña

Besugo al horno is a traditional dish typically enjoyed during Christmas celebrations. Baked with garlic, lemon, and onion, it’s perfect for those who prefer something lighter but still packed with flavour. Although Madrid is inland, it has a reputation for excellent seafood, and fish is an integral part of the local culinary scene. The tradition of eating besugo during the holidays originates from the upper classes, but today, it’s enjoyed on many Madrid dinner tables.

Churros with Chocolate

No discussion of Madrid’s cuisine would be complete without mentioning its famous churros con chocolate. This sweet treat has become a symbol of Madrid’s breakfast and afternoon snack culture. Places like Chocolatería San Ginés, just minutes from Ocean Drive Madrid, offer this delight in a historic setting. The churros are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and when dipped in thick hot chocolate, the combination is simply irresistible. Whether you’re recovering from a night out or starting your day with energy, churros con chocolate is a must-try.

Where to enjoy Madrid’s cuisine near Ocean Drive Madrid

Madrid is full of restaurants and taverns that keep culinary traditions alive. Some must-visit spots near Ocean Drive Madrid include:

• Casa Lucio, famous for its huevos estrellados and cosy atmosphere. Just a short walk from the hotel, this is the perfect place to try traditional dishes like cocido or callos. Their huevos rotos (fried eggs on a bed of chips) is another simple but delicious specialty that bursts with flavour when the yolks are broken.
• El Sobrino de Botín, recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest restaurant, is renowned for its roast suckling pig and lamb, as well as being a great spot to enjoy besugo. The history surrounding this restaurant makes it a must-visit for lovers of both gastronomy and Madrid’s culinary traditions.
• Malacatín, an iconic place to enjoy authentic cocido madrileño in a truly Madrilenian setting. This venue sticks to the original recipes, using the finest ingredients to serve one of the best cocidos in the city.

If you prefer something more modern, the trendy bars and restaurants in areas like Malasaña and Chueca offer a contemporary take on Madrid’s cuisine, blending local ingredients with international influences. From creative tapas to tasting menus, the range is wide and always surprising.

Madrid is a city to enjoy with all your senses, and its gastronomy is no exception. From traditional dishes like cocido and callos to indulgent treats like churros con chocolate, the capital offers a unique culinary experience. If you’re staying at Ocean Drive Madrid, you’ll be just minutes away from some of the best restaurants where you can discover the city’s most authentic flavours. Additionally, thanks to the hotel’s central location, you’ll have easy access to both classic taverns and the new wave of contemporary dining spots that are making waves in Madrid’s culinary scene. Get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic experience in Madrid!