Tapas are a traditional way of eating in Spain; locals go to bars and order a drink and several snacks in the form of tapas to start the night off with friends. To act like a Spaniard and get to know the country’s culinary heritage, going on a tapas bar crawl is a must when in Madrid. Below we explore the bars where visitors will be able to find some of the capital’s best tapas.
Not only is this one of the best markets in Madrid, the Mercado de San Miguel is also one of the best places to eat in the Puerta del Sol area and one of the go-tos for locals who are in search of delicious tapas in a cosmopolitan location. The gourmet tapas stalls located inside this 20th-century iron structure offer hundreds of possibilities: ranging from oysters and champagne to Spanish omelets, the tapas that are served here are without a doubt some of the best in the city. It is best to visit this market throughout the week, as it gets extremely busy on weekends.
Managed by the same team that is in charge of one of the best restaurants in Malasaña, everything about this locale screams out to the world that they serve quality food in a fun atmosphere. The interior is divided into two different dining areas: the informal bar area, where visitors will be able to order a refreshing cocktail, beer or glass of wine while chatting to the people around them, and the more formal sit-down area where the locale’s exquisite tapas are served.
Located on Cava Baja Street, which is known for its many bars, the Taberna Tempranillo is always at the top of the list when it comes to eating out in the capital. During the weekend this bar is buzzing with people who flock here from all parts of the city to relax and unwind with some great wine (only Spanish wine is served here) and even better pinchos, which are a type of tapas consisting of a slice of baguette with a variety of different toppings. There are not many tables, so visitors who want a seat should get to the bar early.