15 Best Affordable Restaurants in Madrid You Must Try - 2024

A bustling metropolis of art, culture, and culinary delights, Madrid offers a spectrum of tastes that cater to every palate and pocket. Whether you’re in the mood for the rustic charm of a tapas bar, the bold flavors of street food, or a sit-down meal in an elegantly understated dining room, the best affordable restaurants in Madrid deliver quality without compromising on the experience. From classic Spanish dishes to innovative cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds, Madrid is a food lover's paradise. Here's a roundup of the 15 best restaurants in Madrid that you must try this year, all offering delicious dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

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1. Roost Chicken

Conveniently located near Plaza Mayor, Roost Chicken offers a mouthwatering menu featuring rotisserie-cooked chicken, known especially for their delectable chicken sandwiches. This spot isn't just a restaurant; it's a testament to the simplicity and comfort of well-cooked, wholesome food. With various rubs and sides to complement their dishes, their lunch menu pleases crowds and provides great value for money.

Best Menu Items: The smash chicken burger and sweet potato fries is a crowd favorite.

2. Juana La Loca

Positioned in the vibrant La Latina district, Juana La Loca is a tapas bar that locals swear by. The patatas bravas are a must-try, and the place buzzes with an infectious energy typical of Madrid’s best spots. The pintxos, small snacks fastened with a toothpick, make Juana La Loca stand out. These bitesize delights range from traditional choices like tortilla de patata to inventive creations involving foie gras and anchovies, all promising a burst of flavor in every bite.

Best Menu Items: Don’t miss their Patatas Bravas and the standout Pintxos Morunos, small skewered meats that are a crowd favorite.

3. Taberna Almendro 13

This cozy tavern is a hidden gem that offers traditional Spanish dishes like huevos rotos and cocido, just a stone’s throw from the historic Plaza Mayor. It’s a perfect spot to indulge in a tasting menu that won’t break the bank. The ambiance is quintessentially Spanish with rustic decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a memorable part of any Madrid tour.

Best Menu Items: Huevos Rotos (broken eggs over potatoes) and their traditional Cocido Madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew, are must-try dishes.

4. Coctelería Inclán Brutal Bar

A cocktail bar with a twist, Coctelería Inclán Brutal Bar in the heart of Madrid is where mixology meets gourmet without the gourmet prices. The menu features daring cocktails and a selection of avant-garde tapas that complement each sip, crafted to intrigue and delight. Booking online is recommended as this popular spot fills up quickly. Its chic, minimalist decor and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination for both locals and tourists.

Best Menu Items: Sample the Red Tuna Tartare followed by their signature Brutal Cocktail, a mix of bold flavors and premium spirits.

5. Havana Blues

Experience the flavors of Cuba right in Madrid at Havana Blues. This restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and a fusion menu that blends Cuban and Spanish favorites. Standout options like the Ropa Vieja and expertly mixed mojitos are just the start. Havana Blues is a colorful, lively spot conveniently located near other dining hotspots, making it a great starting point for a night out.

Best Menu Items: The Ropa Vieja (a traditional Cuban dish of stewed beef) and their Mojitos are standout options that perfectly capture the essence of Cuba.

6. Yakitoro

By Chef Alberto Chicote, Yakitoro is based on the Japanese concept of yakitori, skewered and grilled chicken. The restaurant's modern take on street food in a stylish setting makes it a must-visit. Located in Madrid’s bustling center, Yakitoro offers an innovative yet accessible menu that creatively reinterprets traditional flavors with a contemporary twist.

Best Menu Items: The Chicken Yakitori skewers are a must, and for something different, try the Grilled Avocado skewers that offer a unique twist on traditional flavors.

7. Honest Greens

For those seeking a healthier dining option, Honest Greens offers dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients that are as tasty as they are nutritious. With a philosophy centered on "eating like it matters," this restaurant focuses on sustainable practices and vibrant, wholesome dishes catering to vegetarians and health-conscious eaters. The space is modern and bright, ideal for a casual, feel-good meal.

Best Menu Items: The Seasonal Veggie Plate and Spiced Hummus with Artisan Bread are delicious and nutritious meals ideal for vegetarians and health-conscious diners.

8. Mercado de La Reina

A modern Spanish eatery located on the Gran Via, Mercado de La Reina combines the charm of a traditional market with the sophistication of a contemporary dining room. The tapas here are stellar and their gin and tonic menu is considered one of the best in the city.

Best Menu Items: The Gambas al Ajillo (garlic prawns) and the Jamón Ibérico de Bellota are highly recommended. Their extensive gin and tonic menu offers perfect pairings.

9. Toga

Near Madrid’s artistic Atocha district, Toga offers an innovative cocktail bar atmosphere with a kitchen serving contemporary Spanish cuisine. The chef’s tasting menu is a delightful way to sample the various dishes at a reasonable price.

Best Menu Items: Opt for the Chef’s Tasting Menu to sample various dishes; the Beetroot Tartare and the Ox Tail are exceptional.

10. El Sur

A beloved institution in Madrid, El Sur has been serving traditional Spanish fare at modest prices for years. The ambiance is unpretentious and welcoming, with hearty and flavorful dishes. Their paella is a communal favorite.

Best Menu Items: The Paella and the homemade Croquetas are communal favorites that bring locals and tourists alike through its doors.

11. Casa Dani

Nestled in the bustling Mercado de la Paz, Casa Dani is famed for its exquisite Tortilla Española, often hailed as the best in Madrid. The tortilla’s perfectly caramelized onions and soft, creamy center, paired with a refreshing bowl of salmorejo, provide a delightful contrast that showcases traditional Spanish home cooking at its finest.

Best Menu Items: Tortilla española, salmorejo (cold tomato soup).

12. La Pizzateca

La Pizzateca charms with its authentic Neapolitan pizzas right in the heart of Madrid’s literary quarter. The Margherita and Diavola pizzas stand out for their sumptuous, well-balanced toppings on a perfectly charred crust, making La Pizzateca a mandatory stop for pizza aficionados exploring the city.

Best Menu Items: Margherita pizza, diavola pizza.

13. La Sanabresa

Offering a comforting slice of Spanish culinary tradition, La Sanabresa presents a no-frills dining experience with generous servings of hearty dishes like menudo and bacalao al pil pil. Their affordable menu del día attracts a loyal local crowd, who come for the good food and stay for the warm, homely atmosphere.

Best Menu Items: Menudo (tripe stew), bacalao al pil pil (cod in garlic sauce).

14. St. Street Food

St. Street Food brings a splash of global street flavors to Madrid with its vibrant selection of tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, and more. Each dish bursts with authentic, bold flavors, crafted to satisfy the cravings of diners looking for a quick, delicious, and informal meal on the go.

Best Menu Items: Tacos, pulled pork sandwich.

15. Café de la Luz

A quaint hideaway close to the Tribunal metro, Café de la Luz offers a cozy refuge for those seeking a quiet spot to unwind. Known for its rich, savory quiches and famously refreshing mojitos, this café is a favorite among locals and travelers alike, providing a perfect blend of comfort and charm.

Best Menu Items: Quiches, mojitos.