Table of Contents
Casa Lucio
The legendary Cava Baja institution where the huevos rotos — eggs broken over crispy potatoes and jamón — were basically invented. The dining rooms are bustling and old-school, and the service has served kings. An essential Madrid pilgrimage.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Since 1894, they've been serving thick hot chocolate with churros at all hours. It's the classic post-nightclub fuel, and the marble tabletops are worn with history. Dip, dunk, repeat.
Mercado de San Miguel
A beautiful iron-and-glass market hall filled with gourmet stalls and tapas vendors. The oysters are fresh, the wine bars are stocked, and the people-watching is stellar. Best for a grazing lunch.
Salmon Guru
One of the world's best cocktail bars, hidden behind an unassuming facade in La Latina. The drinks are theatrical masterpieces, and the bartenders are true artists. Book ahead or arrive early.
Mercado de San Antón
A Chueca market with a rooftop bar that's perfect for sunset. The stalls below offer everything from ibérico to sushi, and the vibe is hip and local. Graze your way up, drink your way down.
Lamucca de Pez
A Malasaña institution with generous portions and a bustling, artsy atmosphere. The brunch is excellent, and the terrace fills up fast. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings that stretch into afternoon.
Toma Café
Third-wave coffee in Malasaña with precision brewing and minimal design. The flat whites are textbook, and the pastries are sourced from the best local bakeries. The coffee nerd's pilgrimage spot.
Sala Equis
A former porn cinema transformed into a gorgeous cocktail bar and cultural space. The patio is lush and inviting, and the drinks are well-crafted. Only-in-Madrid weird meets impeccable taste.
Ojalá
Brunch in an underground beach — yes, there's actual sand in the basement. The upstairs is cozy and eclectic, and the food is creative and satisfying. Weird and wonderful Malasaña energy.
StreetXo
David Muñoz's casual outpost brings explosive Asian-fusion flavors to a market setting. The bao buns are ridiculous, and the energy is high-octane. Street food with Michelin DNA.
Bosco de Lobos
An Instagram-worthy café inside the gorgeous Colegio de Arquitectos with vines and natural light. The coffee is solid, and the setting is stunning. Worth visiting for the space alone.
La Paloma
A colorful La Latina spot with creative tapas and a fun, festive atmosphere. The cocktails are strong, and the vibe is unmistakably Madrilean. Perfect for a night that starts with drinks and ends with dancing.
Casa Macareno
Old-school taverna with vermut on tap and simple, perfect tapas. The anchovies are superb, and the marble bar is worn from decades of elbows. The real Madrid, no filter.
Angélica Café
A charming Malasaña café with excellent coffee and beautiful interiors. The brunch is hearty and the croissants are flaky. Settle in with a book and stay awhile.
Ochenta Grados
A Malasaña favorite with creative market-driven dishes and natural wines. The menu changes frequently, and the cooking is confident and flavorful. Intimate and consistently excellent.
