Where Locals Actually Eat in the Center of Madrid
The historic center is where tourism is thickest, which makes it the hardest place to eat well. But locals never really left; they just know which doors to open, usually a street or two off the main squares.
Here are five places we actually send people to, from a wood-fired asador to a small wine bar. Turn off the main square and the center still eats very well.
What to Know
Posada de la Villa
The classic Madrid asador on Cava Baja: timber beams, a wood-fired oven and the roast lamb (cordero asado) that locals bring visitors to try. Book ahead and go hungry.
Cava Baja 9, La Latina, 28005 Madrid
Julián de Tolosa
The best steak in the center, Basque style and simple. The chuletón is the reason to come. They don't do french fries, but the pimientos rojos are so good they more than make up for it.
Cava Baja 18, La Latina, 28005 Madrid
Taberna de Elisa
A proper taberna for traditional tapeo: a few plates to share, a caña in hand and a spot at the bar with the regulars.
Calle de Santa María 42, Barrio de las Letras, 28014 Madrid
Corchito
A small wine bar for a slower night. Trust the staff on the pour, order a couple of plates alongside, and stay for one more glass.
Calle del Saliter 2, Antón Martín, 28012 Madrid
Baba
Hidden through a grand carriage portal off Conde de Romanones, a courtyard set with olive trees and a short menu of Jordanian, Spanish and Galician cooking. Come for breakfast or lunch: the labneh, the pitas and the chocolate-covered dates are the ones to order.
Conde de Romanones 5, near Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid
Good to know: most of these sit in La Latina and the old center, a short walk apart. Go early, and book the asador and the steakhouse at weekends.
Staying in the heart of Madrid? Find your home among our fully serviced apartments, or email contact@akora.com and our team will help you eat where the locals do.