What Food To Try in Madrid and Food Prices

Huevos Rotos - Broken Eggs (breakfast dish) - Crispy fried potatoes topped with sunny-side-up eggs and often served with chorizo. Locals love it for brunch, especially on weekends, enjoying it with a side of bread to soak up the yolks.

Patatas Bravas - Spicy Potatoes (street food) - Fried potato cubes tossed in a spicy tomato sauce and aioli, giving a crunchy and creamy bite. Found all over Madrid, it's a favorite snack that pairs perfectly with a cold beer after work.

Cocido Madrileño - Madrid Stew (main course) - A hearty chickpea stew simmered with vegetables, beef, and chorizo, served in three courses: broth, vegetables, and meat. This dish is typically enjoyed on Sundays, often served in family-style settings to foster a communal atmosphere.

Tortilla Española - Spanish Omelette (local specialty) - A thick and fluffy omelette made of eggs, potatoes, and onions, best enjoyed at room temperature. Locals often grab a slice during lunch or as a late-night snack, usually served with a crusty baguette.

Pansito con Chorizo - Chorizo Sandwich (surprising combination) - A soft bread roll filled with spicy chorizo and sometimes accompanied by a slice of cheese or piquant pickle. This simple yet satisfying sandwich is a favorite for quick lunches around the city, surprising many tourists with its bold flavor.

Espinacas con Garbanzos - Spinach with Chickpeas (seasonal variation) - This nutritious dish combines tender spinach with chickpeas, garlic, and spices, creating a comforting, earthy flavor. Commonly served during Lent or the cooler months, it's a local favorite among vegetarians.

By the way, remember that ordering "un café" usually means a shot of espresso, not a regular coffee, so if that's your preference, just say "café con leche."

Chocolatl - Chocolate a la Taza (thick hot chocolate) - A rich, velvety hot chocolate made with high-quality dark chocolate and milk, thick enough to stand a spoon upright in it. Locals usually enjoy it as an indulgent breakfast or afternoon treat, often paired with churros to dip.

Cerveza - Cerveza Madrileña (local beer) - A refreshing lagery beer brewed right in Madrid, often enjoyed cold in casual settings. Perfect for sipping on a hot summer day while out in the parks or during a lively evening tapas crawl; avoid ordering it too chilled, as locals prefer a slightly warmer serving.

Tinto de Verano - Tinto de Verano (summer red wine spritzer) - A light and fruity mix of red wine and lemonade, served over ice, making it the ideal drink for Madrid’s warm evenings. Enjoyed on terraces and at local bars, it's a staple during summer; just remember to say "sin hielo" if you prefer it without ice.

Tarta de Santiago - Tarta de Santiago (Almond cake) - A delightful almond cake with a light texture, dusted with powdered sugar and marked with the Cross of Santiago. This cake is traditionally served during special occasions, especially during the Feast of St. James in July, making it a festive choice.

Nieve - Nieve de Limón (lemon granita) - A refreshing frozen dessert made from lemon juice, sugar, and shaved ice, it’s perfect for cooling down in the hot Madrid sun. You’ll find this delightful treat in popular ice cream shops during the summer months, but do keep an eye out for beautifully presented variations!