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The streets of Spain’s capital overflow with art, literature, and music. However, it is even more well known for its rich food scene. Perhaps the best way to step into the heart this city’s culture is by sampling the unique flavors that Madrid has to offer. Below you’ll find  ten unforgettable food and drink options that are beloved by both tourists and locals alike.

Bocadillo de Calamares

Be sure to taste the city’s iconic sandwich. The ingredients may be simple, deep-fried squid encased in a crunchy baguette, but this delicious made-to-order sandwich will not disappoint. Many excellent options for Bocadillo de Calamares are located around the Plaza Mayor. A stop in at La Campane will not only secure you one of the best calamari  sandwiches, but you will also be able to watch the flurry of the cooks as they prepare the food.

Beer and Tapas

Experience Madrid like the locals do with a cold beer and tasty tapas. For Madrid’s local beer, try Mahou. Some bars will serve free tapas with your drink. Petisqueira is one such restaurant. The free tapas are substantial little bites of food such as mini-hamburgers, sausage, and spicy potatoes.

Cocido Marilleno

This beloved Spanish dish features slow cooked chickpeas, meat, and vegetables. This dish is usually enjoyed in several courses, starting with a simple broth soup and ending with the veggies, beans, and meat. La Bola is famous for its Cocido Marilleno. They stick to the traditional method, cooking the stew in clay pots over coals for about four hours. The result is a dish that is saturated with comforting and unforgettable flavors.

Tinto Verano

While Sangria is offered everywhere, the closely related Tinto Verano is the drink more popular with the locals. It is a simple combination of wine and a bubbly lemonade. Tinto Verano is the quintessential summer drink and can be found on most menus. Enjoy sipping this drink from a rooftop terrace at Terrazas Plaza de Olavide.

Tortilla 

Like many other Madrid classics, the simplicity of this dish might at first be met with skepticism. The Tortilla, or Spanish omelet, consists of potatoes, eggs, and onions.  Once you try it, you’ll have to rethink your understanding of omelets. One of the best places to try it is at Bodega De La Ardosa. After making it the same way for over a century, they have the Tortilla down to an art.

Vermouth

This drink is an iconic part of Madrid’s culture. There is even a designated time of the day to drink Vermouth, known as “the Vermouth hour.” Many bars have it on tap, but you can check out La Violeta for over 20 different types of Vermouth.

Wine

If you enjoy a good glass of wine, you are in the right place! Madrid offers many exceptional Spanish wines, one of its most famous being Rioja. For a memorable experience you can sip a glass of Rioja while enjoying a flamenco show at Corral De La Moreia.

Jamón Ibérico

While in Madrid you must try this Spanish delicacy known also as Iberian Ham. The pigs are kept on a specific diet and the curing process takes anywhere from 1-4 years. At Casa Lucio you can enjoy Iberian Ham with fried potatoes and over-easy eggs, known as Huevos Rotos. If you are in the mood for other pork dishes, consider trying suckling pig or, if you are extra adventurous, pig’s ear.

Manchego Cheese

This cheese is famous not only due to its appearance in Don Quixote, but also because of its remarkable flavor, which varies depending on how long it has been aged. You can find it at many restaurants and bars. To ensure you get the highest quality try it at Casa Gonzalez along with some Iberian Ham. While you are there check out their impressive wine list!

Churros con Chocolate

If you are in the mood for something sweet, be sure to grab some fresh churros with a rich cup of chocolate for dipping. This treat can be found throughout Madrid. However, most will agree that the best place for churros and chocolate is Chocolatería San Ginés.

The cuisine in Madrid is more than just food, but encapsulates a way of life. Guests will leave with full bellies and the assurance that they experienced the real Madrid.

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This article was last updated on September 21, 2022

Jim Bozzelli
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