DINING ON A BUDGET IN MADRID

While Madrid boasts a wealth of high-end dining establishments and gourmet experiences, it’s also a city that warmly welcomes those with budget constraints. In this chapter, we’ll explore how to dine on a budget in Madrid, where you can enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank. Check-out the 30-list of top places to dining on a bidget in Madrid.

Menu del Día: Affordable Lunch Options

Menu del Día, or the “Menu of the Day,” is a time-honored tradition in Spanish dining. It’s a set-menu option typically offered during lunch hours at many restaurants, providing a wallet-friendly way to enjoy a multi-course meal. A typical Menu del Día includes a starter, main course, dessert, bread, and a beverage, often wine, beer, or water. Prices can vary, but you can expect to find excellent menu options at local restaurants, especially those away from the tourist-heavy areas. Look for the “Menu del Día” signboard or ask your server for the daily menu offerings.

Bocadillos: Madrid’s Famous Sandwiches

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, Madrid’s bocadillos are the answer. These hearty sandwiches are made with fresh baguettes or rustic Spanish bread and filled with various ingredients, from traditional Spanish ham and cheese to creative combinations. Look for local “bocaterías” (sandwich shops) and enjoy a filling bocadillo as you explore the city. Don’t miss the classic “bocadillo de calamares,” a Madrid favorite.

Tascas and Tabernas: Unmissable Cheap Eats

Tascas and tabernas are traditional Spanish taverns where you can enjoy small, inexpensive dishes. They often have a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Some popular options to try include:

  • Patatas Bravas: Fried potato chunks with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
  • Huevos Rotos: Potatoes served with fried eggs and a choice of toppings, such as chorizo or jamón.
  • Croquetas: Delicious deep-fried croquettes with various fillings like ham or seafood.
  • Boquerones en Vinagre: White anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and parsley.
  • Tortilla Española: A hearty and affordable Spanish omelet.

Eating Like a Local in Bodegas

Bodegas are traditional Spanish wine bars where you can experience a true local atmosphere and enjoy wallet-friendly dishes. Here, you can try a “vino de la casa” (house wine) and pair it with a variety of tapas. These small plates often include olives, cheese, and other Spanish snacks. Bodegas are scattered throughout Madrid, and while they may appear unassuming, they offer a genuine glimpse into Madrid’s culinary and social traditions.

Useful Tips for Budget Dining

To make the most of dining on a budget in Madrid, keep these tips in mind:

  • Set Menus (Menu del Día): Look for restaurants and local eateries that offer daily set menus for lunch. These are a great way to enjoy a multi-course meal at a fixed price.
  • Tapas: Opt for tapas-style dining, where you can share small plates with friends and sample a variety of dishes.
  • Local and Non-Touristy Areas: Venture away from the most touristy areas, as dining establishments in local neighborhoods often offer more budget-friendly options.
  • Snacking: Consider snacking at street food vendors and markets, where you can find delicious, inexpensive bites.
  • Lunch vs. Dinner: Lunch is typically more budget-friendly than dinner, so aim for a big midday meal if you’re looking to save.

30 Places to dining on a budget in Madrid

La Campana

  • Address: Calle de Botoneras, 6, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A local favorite for traditional Spanish dishes and a Menu del Día.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try the Menu del Día for a variety of Spanish classics, including paella.

La Sanabresa

  • Address: Calle de Tetuán, 7, 28013 Madrid
  • Overview: Famous for their bocadillos and hearty Spanish sandwiches.
  • Average Cost per Person: €5-10
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Order their classic “bocadillo de calamares” (calamari sandwich).

Casa González

  • Address: Calle del León, 12, 28014 Madrid
  • Overview: A bodega offering a wide selection of cheeses and wines.
  • Average Cost per Person: €15-20
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Enjoy a cheese and wine pairing with their expert recommendations.

Bodegas Ricla

  • Address: Calle de Cuchilleros, 6, 28005 Madrid
  • Overview: A classic Spanish bodega with great tapas and wines.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try their assortment of tapas, such as “patatas bravas” (spicy potatoes).

Casa Toni

  • Address: Calle de la Cruz, 14, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A friendly taberna serving traditional Spanish dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Order “tortilla Española” (Spanish omelet) for an authentic taste.

El Sur

  • Address: Calle de la Bolsa, 11, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: Affordable tapas and traditional Spanish cuisine.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try their “gambas al ajillo” (garlic shrimp) for a flavorful dish.

Mercado de Antón Martín

  • Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 5, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A market with various stalls offering diverse cuisines.
  • Average Cost per Person: Varies by stall
  • Region: Lavapiés
  • Suggestion: Explore the market and sample international dishes like sushi or tapas.

Mercado de la Cebada

  • Address: Plaza de la Cebada, s/n, 28005 Madrid
  • Overview: A traditional market with tapas bars and international food.
  • Average Cost per Person: Varies by stall
  • Region: La Latina
  • Suggestion: Visit “Bar La Daniela” for a classic bocadillo de calamares.

El 19 de San Ildefonso

  • Address: Calle de Fuencarral, 57, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: A contemporary food market with an array of international dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Malasaña
  • Suggestion: Try the wood-fired pizzas at “Italian Street Food.”

Mercado de Maravillas

  • Address: Calle de Bravo Murillo, 122, 28020 Madrid
  • Overview: A local market with fresh produce, seafood, and small eateries.
  • Average Cost per Person: Varies by stall
  • Region: Tetuán
  • Suggestion: Visit “El Club de la Croqueta” for a variety of gourmet croquettes.

El Brilli

  • Address: Calle de la Cruz, 17, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A classic Spanish tavern offering affordable tapas.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try their “patatas bravas” (spicy fried potatoes).

Cervecería Alemana

  • Address: Plaza de Santa Ana, 6, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A historic beer bar known for its sausages and pretzels.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Order their sausages and pair them with a cold beer.

La Colina

  • Address: Calle de la Palma, 52, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: A cozy local restaurant with budget-friendly daily specials.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Malasaña
  • Suggestion: Check out their daily specials for affordable options.

Bacoa Burger

  • Address: Calle de Hortaleza, 3, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: A burger joint with affordable and delicious options.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Chueca
  • Suggestion: Try their classic beef burger with your choice of toppings.

Bodega de la Ardosa

  • Address: Calle de Colón, 13, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: A traditional bodega offering drinks and tapas.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Malasaña
  • Suggestion: Order a vermouth and enjoy their Spanish tortilla.

Taberna El Sur

  • Address: Calle de la Bolsa, 12, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A local tavern with traditional Spanish tapas.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try their “boquerones en vinagre” (white anchovies in vinegar).

Bar Santurce

  • Address: Calle de Echegaray, 8, 28014 Madrid
  • Overview: A classic seafood bar with budget-friendly options.
  • Average Cost per Person: €12-18
  • Region: Lavapiés
  • Suggestion: Order their “paella” for a taste of Spanish seafood.

El Tigre

  • Address: Calle de las Infantas, 30, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: Known for its generous free tapas with every drink.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Chueca
  • Suggestion: Enjoy a drink and take advantage of the free tapas.

Taberna de Antonio Sánchez

  • Address: Calle de Mesón de Paredes, 13, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A historic taberna serving traditional Spanish dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Lavapiés
  • Suggestion: Try their “croquetas” (croquettes) with various fillings.

Taberna La Concha

  • Address: Calle de la Cruz, 10, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A local taberna offering reasonably priced Spanish dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Order their “huevos rotos” (potatoes with fried eggs).

El Economato

  • Address: Calle de Torrecilla del Leal, 10, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A no-frills spot offering hearty, budget-friendly meals.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Lavapiés
  • Suggestion: Try their “pisto manchego,” a Spanish ratatouille.

Taberna de los Huevos de Lucio

  • Address: Calle de Cava Baja, 30, 28005 Madrid
  • Overview: A traditional tavern with a focus on egg-based dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: La Latina
  • Suggestion: Order the classic “huevos rotos con jamón” (broken eggs with ham).

El Sur also

  • Address: Calle de la Bolsa, 8, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: Traditional Spanish and Mediterranean dishes in a welcoming setting.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Try their “tortilla Española” for an authentic Spanish omelet.

El Club de la Croqueta

  • Address: Calle de Echegaray, 5, 28014 Madrid
  • Overview: A charming spot dedicated to gourmet croquettes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Explore their variety of croquettes with different fillings.

Bodegas Lo Máximo

  • Address: Calle de Gravina, 10, 28004 Madrid
  • Overview: A local bodega offering wines and simple tapas.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Malasaña
  • Suggestion: Pair a glass of their house wine with some tapas.

Churros El Moro

  • Address: Calle de la Cruz, 26, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A churrería serving delicious churros and hot chocolate.
  • Average Cost per Person: €5-10
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Enjoy a serving of churros with a cup of rich, Spanish hot chocolate.

El Club de la Tortilla

  • Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 38, 28012 Madrid
  • Overview: A cozy spot with a variety of tortilla Española options.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Lavapiés
  • Suggestion: Sample different types of Spanish omelets with your choice of toppings.

Bar La Daniela

  • Address: Plaza de Callao, 4, 28013 Madrid
  • Overview: A legendary spot for trying the famous bocadillo de calamares.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Centro (City Center)
  • Suggestion: Don’t miss the classic “bocadillo de calamares.”

Los Kebaps

  • Address: Calle de Fuencarral, 112, 28010 Madrid
  • Overview: A local favorite for enjoying kebabs and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
  • Average Cost per Person: €8-12
  • Region: Chamberí
  • Suggestion: Try their kebabs with fresh and flavorful ingredients.

Shukran

  • Address: Calle de los Reyes, 5, 28015 Madrid
  • Overview: A Moroccan restaurant with a cozy, bohemian setting.
  • Average Cost per Person: €10-15
  • Region: Arganzuela
  • Suggestion: Order a platter of assorted Moroccan mezze for a flavorful experience.