Bars and Restaurants
Café Comercial, Malasaña
Every facet of city life swirls together at the historic Café Comerical, from retirees reading the morning paper to rowdy youngsters and impromptu business meetings. The two-storey restaurant has held a special place in the hearts of Madrileños since 1887, which is why the city breathed a sigh of relief when it was revived by a collective of hospitality honchos in 2017. Split between a front bar, streetside terrace and busy dining rooms on both levels, expect reimagined Spanish dishes, smartly dressed waiters and plenty of people-watching.
Casa Macareno, Malasaña
Revived by a trio of young gourmands, this taberna mixes Spanish staples with classic design and an updated approach to service. Hand-painted tiles procured from the patio of a palace in Guadalajara colour the walls. You’ll spot stylish residents mixing with neighbourhood veterans, often with a glass of yayo in hand. Can’t find a table? Visit its sister establishment, Bodegas El Maño, which is just a few streets away.
Café Federal, Conde Duque
A reliable pitstop if you’re finding it difficult to adapt to Madrid’s regimented kitchen timetable. This antipodean-inspired café has an all-day approach, which means you can order good food and coffee at any time between 09.00 and 22.00. It operates three locations around the city in Conde Duque, Chamberí and La Latina.
Tramo, Prosperidad
This restaurant showcases its fresh vision at every turn. Designer Andreu Carulla repurposed a post-industrial space in collaboration with studio SelgasCano to create an eco-auditorium that offers a sustainable blueprint for the future. Innovative fixtures include a cooling mist system to combat Madrid’s dry summer air. The fare is Madrileño at heart, featuring seasonal dishes. Try the flat-iron sea bass or the grilled artichokes.
La Carmencita, Chueca
One of the oldest taverns in Madrid, Taberna La Carmencita opened in 1854 and became the haunt of some of Spain’s literary greats. After falling into disrepair, it was beautifully restored by visionary food entrepreneur Carlos Zamora. Everything on the menu is made with organic ingredients from small producers. Try the traditional goat stew, which includes meat sourced from the Cantabrian mountains, for a dish that perfectly embodies Taberna La Carmencita’s no-nonsense approach.
Restaurante Sacha, Chamartín
Chef Sacha Hormaechea was always destined to helm his parents’ revered bistro, which they named after him in 1972. Today he carries on his family’s legacy and serves quality cuisine, while maintaining a reputation as a charismatic host and devout lover of fresh produce. Its acclaim speaks for itself – Spain’s top chefs can often be found tucking into a meal at Sacha’s on their days off.
Ticuí, Cortes/Salamanca
Madrid’s connection to Mexico has been revived in recent years, bringing about the establishment of a state-funded cultural centre, the arrival of accomplished Mexican chefs and a wave of taquerías across the city. Ticuí, which was opened by chef Federico Rigoletti in 2023, puts a more refined, contemporary spin on the country’s cuisine. Its menu explores the nation’s Pacific palate, with inventive dishes such as kampachi (yellowtail) with matcha, ponzu and apple, and mushrooms in pipián sauce.
El Corral de la Morería, Austrias
This tablao proves that you don’t need to trek to Andalucía to experience the passion of flamenco. El Corral de la Morería opened in 1956, with owner Manuel del Rey luring talent to the city with the promise of more affluent audiences. Treating yourself to the mouthwatering five-course degustation menu won’t just liven your spirits but also guarantee you the best spot to marvel at the fancy footwork.
El Internacional, Cortes
This cocktail bar and nightclub takes cues from classic luxury hotels. A favoured hotspot for the city’s new generation of DJs, it hosts a vibrant weekly salsa and bachata night with live music. Headed by fashion stylist Laura Vandall and music partner Edgar Kerri, the duo have put their stamp on much of the city’s nightlife resurgence. You can check out its sibling establishments, Chinchín and Lucky Dragon, for lively soundtracks and cool crowds.
Calle de Cedaceros, 11
