Central Madrid's Top Local Restaurants

El Rincón de Jaén serves up tapas from Andalusia and is always chock-full of locals enjoying the brightly-lit, crowded atmosphere. Similar to a typical bar you’d find in Jaén, Cádiz or Seville, this spot is known for its lightly breaded fried fish, crisped to perfection in steaming oil.

A restaurant where many of the waiters and hosts are actually studying to become chefs, La Finca de Susana is reasonably priced but still has creative takes on authentic dishes, making its appeal to locals sky-high. Order meat and seafood dishes here as the quality is top notch but won’t break the budget.

One of the oldest restaurants in Spain, Casa Mingo is known for its sidra, which hails from the Asturias region of Spain. Although the restaurant does get its fair share of tourists, locals are loyal to this spot, which has a relaxing outdoor patio and serves up chorizo, roast chicken and cheeses.

Although Lizarran happens to be a chain, it’s hearty, cheap and delicious, so Madrileños love it. Try the huevos rotos, a dish with broken, runny eggs served over fried potatoes. There are a number of locations around the city, with the venue on Avenida Felipe II off Plaza de Dalí renowned for its impressive outdoor terrace.

A very traditional tapas bar dating back many years, Jurucha is home to both older gentleman waiters and delicious dishes. Take in the delectable tapas sitting in the glass cases along the bar and select whatever meets your fancy – favourites include the meatballs and the creamed spinach with quail’s egg on bread.

Another of Madrid’s oldest restaurants, La Casa Del Abuelo is a staple for those who love gambas (prawns). You can order this dish many different ways: doused in garlic, steamed on a platter or in special sauces. Whatever your choice, pair it will a strong glass of Rioja red wine just like the locals do.