A day of tapas in Madrid: the spots you have to try

Madrid is known for its rich culinary tradition and its tapas culture. Going for tapas is more than just a meal; it’s a social experience where you get to taste a variety of culinary delights while sharing moments with friends and family. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the most delicious spots to enjoy a day of tapas in Madrid.  

Mercado de San Miguel

We kick off our tapas day at the iconic Mercado de San Miguel. This historic market boasts an impressive selection of food and drink stalls. Here you can try everything from authentic Spanish tapas like croquettes and Iberian ham to fresh seafood and local wines. It’s the perfect place to start your culinary adventure.  

La Latina: the tapas neighbourhood

La Latina is famous for its narrow cobbled streets and lively tapas scene. Head to Calle Cava Baja, known as ‘the tapas mile’, and pick from a wide variety of bars and taverns. Try patatas bravas, meatballs in sauce, or Galician-style octopus at one of the cosy spots.  

Casa Labra

If you love seafood dishes, you can’t miss Casa Labra. This historic Madrid bar is famous for its battered cod, a delicious specialty it’s been serving since 1860. The secret recipe and traditional atmosphere make this spot a must for tapas lovers.  

Bodega de la Ardosa

La Bodega de la Ardosa is a classic Madrid bar that has been running since 1892. Along with a great selection of wines and beers, they serve traditional tapas like Spanish omelette and salmorejo. The rustic vibe and vintage décor will whisk you back to another era.  

Mercado de San Ildefonso

If you prefer a more modern vibe and a variety of options, Mercado de San Ildefonso is the place to go. This gourmet market features a wide range of food stalls serving tapas from different regions of Spain and around the world. You can enjoy Japanese, Mexican, Spanish tapas and much more all in one spot.  

Taberna el Sur

For an authentic experience, visit Taberna el Sur in the lively Lavapiés neighbourhood. Here you’ll find a variety of traditional Spanish tapas at reasonable prices. Try the calamari Roman-style or the garlic prawns paired with a glass of red wine.  

Chocolatería San Ginés

End your day of tapas with something sweet at Chocolatería San Ginés. This historic spot is famous for its churros and porras served with thick hot chocolate. It’s the perfect dessert to wrap up your tapas tasting journey. A day of tapas in Madrid is a culinary experience you won’t want to miss. From historic markets to traditional bars and modern spots, the city offers a wide variety of options to please your palate. So when you visit Madrid, make sure you take a tour of these delicious places and enjoy an authentic Spanish tapas experience. Madrid isn’t just famous for its tapas culture; it’s also known for its vibrant nightlife, impressive museums and stunning architecture. Exploring the city will give you a complete picture of its rich heritage and cultural diversity. Finally, if you’re looking for accommodation in Madrid, we recommend our Be Casa communities, where you can stay for days, weeks or even months. We’re located in Rivas-Vaciamadrid, Valdebebas and San Sebastián de los Reyes. All our communities are just a few minutes from the centre of Madrid. Plus, they feature a wide range of communal areas, like a gym, swimming pool, social club, coworking space and rooftops where you can create unique moments. We hope you enjoy your day of tapas in Madrid and everything this wonderful city has to offer!