Lauren AloiseMADRID, SPAIN. Spain is synonymous with tapas, and Madrid is no exception. Offering up both traditional tapas and modern bites, everyone knows that a visit to Madrid isn’t complete without at least one impromptu tapas route. Many Madrileños choose to go tapeando at least two or three times a week. With so many great tapas bars to choose from, it’s easy to see why! But what to order? Don’t worry, from traditional to modern, these are 10 tapas to try in Madrid that will have you wishing to stay longer.
Huevos Rotos at Casa Lucio
See photo above. Huevos rotos are a popular egg tapa served all around Madrid. The dish consists of french fries, soft boiled eggs, and the topping of your choice– Serrano ham, vegetables, chorizo, etc. If you want to eat like a true Spaniard, this tapa is for you!
Tortilla de Patata at Juana la Loca
Tortilla de patatas
This Madrid classic looks like your average Spanish omelette, but delicious caramelized onions and a slightly runny center make this tortilla at Juana la Loca one of the best tapas to try in Madrid. Get there early to grab a spot at the bar.
Rabo de Toro at Estay
Rabo de toro
As one of Madrid’s signature dishes, rabo de toro (stewed oxtail) is a popular choice when dining out. It can be difficult, however, to find it in tapa version. Estay makes a perfectly sized tapas portion for first timers and long time fans alike.
Crema de Melon con Jamón at Lateral
Crema de Melón con Jamón. El Lateral, Madrid.
This cold melon soup topped with Serrano ham can easily go overlooked on Lateral’s popular tapas menu. But those who venture to try it are in for a pleasant surprise, as the creamy melon soup is the perfect complement to Spain’s salty cured ham.
Pimientos de Padron at Casa Toni
Pimientos de padrón
There is nothing simpler than fried peppers, but somehow these ones are special. These small green chiles are deep fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Most of them are mild, but every now and then someone gets a spicy one. It’s all part of the tapas fun!
Truffled Egg at La Gabinoteca
Truffled Egg | LWY.
This delicious tapa (best known for its appearance on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations) is definitely one of Madrid’s more modern small bites. Known at the restaurant as El Potito, it consists of a soft boiled egg, potato and truffle.
Foie Gras at Txirimiri
Foie Gras | Accidental Hedonist.
People flock to the tiny tapas bar Txirimiri to try its famous grilled foie gras served with fig jam. If you are looking to sample one of Madrid’s most decadent tapas, this is the one.
Salmorejo at Según Emma
Salmorejo
Salmorejo is a cold, tomato-based soup that shows off some of the best Spanish products– tomatos, olive oil, and ham. People say that the Según Emma tapas bar makes the best version in town, and I wouldn’t disagree!
Tajada de Bacalao at Casa Labra
Tajadas de bacalao at Casa Labra Madrid
The line at Casa Labra is almost always spilling out the door, but don’t worry– it moves fast! Grab a spot and order the tajada de bacalao (fried salt cod). Everyone thinks it’s standing room only, but if you head to the back, there are tables, too.
Gambas al Ajillo at La Casa del Abuelo
Gambas al ajillo
Their garlic shrimp made La Casa del Abuelo the Madrid tapas institution it is today. Served sizzling, the shrimp finish cooking at your table and must be immediately eaten with lots of bread to soak up the delicious garlic sauce. This family run business has been serving food for over 100 years and you’ll see why when you try their tapas!
Madrid is full of great tapas places and these are only some of the best places to have tapas in Madrid. What are your recommendations for 10 tapas to try in Madrid?