Discovering Madrid's Contemporary Food Scene
Walk on a fascinating journey through contemporary cuisine, where tradition coexists with the most innovative techniques
The excellence of haute cuisine
Haute cuisine is characterised by the quality of its raw materials, the carefulness of its preparation, its refined aesthetic qualities, and the professionalism of its chefs, who have an in-depth knowledge of ingredients and culinary techniques.
Creative cuisine at Diverxo restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
From creative cuisine...
Previously, there were only regional cuisines and French haute cuisine, both of which were governed by pre-established norms. However, in the 1990s, Spain promoted a new style of cuisine, known as 'creative cuisine', which completely changed the previously established paradigms.
Paco Roncero restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
One of Madrid's most notable restaurants specialising in creative cuisine is DiverXO, run by Dabiz Muñoz and recognised by major international rankings. Other notable restaurants include DSTAgE, Coque and Paco Roncero, to name a few.
Saddle of beef shank in Saddle restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
...to the great classics
There are also great restaurants that have played a part in Madrid's and Spain's history. While some maintain their original dishes, others have introduced new creations to surprise their guests, all the while retaining the essence that once made them gastronomic temples.
Zalacaín restaurant dining roomAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Madrid boasts several celebrated classic restaurants, including Zalacaín, Spain's first three-Michelin-star restaurant; Horcher, renowned for its traditional European haute cuisine; and Lhardy, a venue that has hosted many notable figures.
A range of international tastes
Madrid's culinary scene boasts a diverse range of flavours from around the world. Let's take a look at some examples.
Spaghetti alla puttanesca at Don Giovanni restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
European cuisine has always been popular in the capital, particularly Italian and French, but also Greek, German and Portuguese. There are even restaurants from less common regions, such as Belgium and Poland.
Iberoamerican cuisines examplesAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Madrid also boasts a wide range of Latin American cuisine, including famous dishes such as Mexican tacos, Peruvian ceviche, Argentine empanadas and Venezuelan arepas. The city also presents new interpretations of traditional recipes.
Chinese teapots in Bao Li restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
You can experience a little bit of Asian culture through its cuisine, with a variety of Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese and Korean restaurants to choose from. From sushi and ramen to dim sum, hot pot, pad thai, and bibimbap, there are options to suit all tastes.
Khachapuri at the Georgian restaurant NunukaAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Other international dishes you can try in Madrid include Georgian khachapuri, Russian borscht, Swiss fondue, American-style burgers and ribs, and African tagine and couscous. It's a true glimpse into the world of cuisine.
Taste the region
But gastronomy isn't just about the capital. Every municipality, from the most populous to the smallest, has unique places where you can enjoy traditional dishes or creative, signature cuisine.
Haute cuisine in a rural restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
Great restaurants can be found throughout the region: Some of the stars scattered across the region's culinary firmament include Montia in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, La Casa de Manolo Franco in Valdemorillo, and Chirón in Valdemoro.
Rustic atmosphere restaurantAcademia Iberoamericana de Gastronomía
With a more relaxed atmosphere, many restaurants have a special charm. Enjoying an aperitif in the town's main square, dining on home-cooked food or having breakfast with mountain views are also privileged ways to experience gastronomy.
This content has been created in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport of the Community of Madrid.
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