Madrid has been crowned Spain’s best city for food, drinks and dining in 2025.
Madrid has officially been named Spain’s best city for food and drink in 2025, cementing its place as one of Europe’s top gastronomic destinations.
In a survey conducted by Time Out, the Spanish capital triumphed over culinary powerhouses like Porto, Paris, and Naples, earning an impressive 90 percent approval rating from thousands of locals who praised its diverse and innovative dining scene.
Paired with a tied fourth-place ranking alongside New Orleans in expert opinions, Madrid’s food culture now ranks among the top five globally.
A City That Lives and Breathes Food
For food lovers, Madrid is an ever-evolving paradise, offering everything from traditional tapas to cutting-edge fine dining experiences.
The city is renowned for its deep-rooted culinary traditions, where time-honored dishes such as croquettes, Spanish tortillas, bocadillo de calamares, and cocido madrileño remain staples of the local diet. But Madrid’s food culture is far from static—it is a living, breathing force that constantly adapts and innovates.
According to Gorka Elorrieta, Time Out Madrid’s Food and Drink editor, “We’ve got the world’s best plant-based restaurant according to Green Guide (El Invernadero), a Michelin-starred spot dedicated to offal (La Tasquería), and the only fine-dining restaurant inside a historic flamenco tablao (Corral de la Morería). Natural wine bistros are everywhere, small bakeries are thriving, and young chefs are making waves at OSA, Chispa, Lur, and Tonton, while the Trafalgar neighborhood is bursting with exciting new openings.”
Luxury Hotels and World-Class Dining
Madrid’s status as Spain’s culinary capital is not just about the food—it’s also about the incredible luxury hospitality scene that supports it. The city is home to some of Europe’s most iconic five-star hotels, each boasting exceptional dining experiences that attract both locals and travelers from around the world.
The Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, where chef Quique Dacosta delivers a Michelin-starred experience at Deessa is a stand out. And The Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, which features the acclaimed Dani Brasserie by Michelin-starred chef Dani García, serving up spectacular dishes with a breathtaking rooftop view of the city. The recently opened Rosewood Villa Magna has quickly become one of the city’s top luxury stays, offering a dining scene that blends local tradition with international influences.
The Hotel Urban, a boutique luxury stay, is home to the Glass Mar restaurant, curated by renowned chef Ángel León, known for his revolutionary work with marine ingredients. Meanwhile, the Santo Mauro, Autograph Collection provides an intimate and exclusive dining experience in a former palace, redefining luxury with every dish.
Click here for more luxury hotels in Madrid.
The Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Madrid has mastered the delicate balance of preserving its culinary heritage while embracing modernity. While food markets like Mercado de San Miguel and Platea Madrid offer visitors a taste of traditional Spanish flavors, the city’s young, innovative chefs are redefining what Spanish cuisine can be.
Michelin-starred restaurants continue to push the boundaries of creativity, with DiverXO, helmed by the inimitable Dabiz Muñoz, leading the way with its avant-garde approach to fine dining. Meanwhile, spots like Casa Dani, famous for serving some of the best tortillas in Spain, and the beloved Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, keep Madrid’s deep-rooted culinary history alive.
A City for Every Palate
Beyond Michelin-starred experiences and fine dining, Madrid’s food scene is incredibly accessible and diverse. The city is a paradise for tapas lovers, with entire neighborhoods dedicated to the art of small plates. La Latina is brimming with authentic taverns, where locals gather over patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and gambas al ajillo. The vibrant Malasaña district is a hub for trendy eateries and fusion cuisine, catering to a younger, adventurous crowd looking for inventive takes on Spanish classics.
And let’s not forget Madrid’s café culture—the city boasts some of the most charming coffee spots and bakeries, where fresh churros dipped in thick, velvety chocolate remain an essential indulgence. Chocolatería San Ginés, a Madrid institution since 1894, continues to serve what many consider the best churros in the country.
Madrid’s Culinary Future
With its combination of historic institutions, groundbreaking fine dining, and a booming luxury hotel scene, Madrid has firmly established itself as the top food and drink city in Spain—and one of the best in the world. Whether you’re a lover of classic Spanish fare or eager to explore the latest culinary innovations, Madrid offers an unparalleled dining experience that continues to evolve year after year.
As more international chefs and restaurateurs recognize Madrid’s growing influence, the city is poised to maintain its culinary dominance for years to come. So, whether you’re visiting for the food, the luxury, or a mix of both, one thing is certain: Madrid is a feast for the senses.
