Ahead of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, sponsored by Perrier landing in Madrid, 50 Best asked some of the city’s most notable chefs and bartenders where they sup and sip off-shift. Read on for their recommendations
Madrid is famed for its vibrant culture, buzzing nightlife and world-leading bars and restaurants. For those looking to visit the Spanish capital, nailing down an itinerary of must-visit locations can be tricky as there are so many exceptional ones to choose from.
In search of recommendations, 50 Best approached those who know the scene inside out: Dabiz Muñoz of the world-famous Diverxo (No.4 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024), Diego Cabrera of Salmon Guru (No.16 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023) and Mario Villalón of Angelita (No.65 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024) – asking them to share some of their city hotspots.
Diego Cabrera of Salmon Guru recommends:
Anton Martín Market
@mercadoantonmartin
1. de Sta. Isabel, 5, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Locals head to Anton Martín Market for great food away from the crowds
While the majority of visitors head for the central Mercado de San Miguel, locals know that Anton Martín market is just as brilliant for finding culinary treasures. Spread across three floors, the market houses more than 60 stalls and sells everything you’d expect in a traditional Spanish market, from local fruit and vegetables, to cheese and jamón. Over time, the market has evolved beyond simply a place to buy ingredients, adding a host of exciting eateries to its line-up that put the exemplary produce available to good use. Traditional Spanish food stalls proudly sit alongside taco vendors and a hole-in-the-wall Japanese-inspired pastry spots. Don’t forget to visit the vermouth bar.
Cabrera says: “I love Doppelgänger – a tiny stall serving creative cuisine. Just outside of the market, there is an alley where you can find La Consentida de Doré – here you can enjoy gildas (gherkins, anchovies and olives on a cocktail stick) of all kinds – they’re the most typical snack in Madrid.”
Ferretería
@ferreteria_restaurante
1. de Atocha, 57, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Salmon Guru's Diego Cabrera recommends a trip to Ferretería for its croquetas
16th century coal vaults inside Madrid’s oldest hardware store form the unlikely setting for one of the city’s most popular eateries. Ferretería takes its name from its former occupation as a DIY shop or ironmonger, and has become a magnet for diners in search for contemporary renditions of classic Madrid dishes. Think huevos rotos (scrambled eggs) enhanced with black truffle and paired with tuna tartare, or chicken cooked in a homely pepitoria sauce of ground almonds and saffron.
Cabrera says: “It’s one of the few places left where you can enjoy typical Madrid cuisine in a fittingly historic setting. The croquetas are a must-order.”
Cine Ideal
Calle del Dr Cortezo, 6, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Drop by Cine Ideal to watch a movie in Madrid's original cinema (Image: MetroCentric via Wikimedia Commons)
Cine Ideal opened more than 100 years ago as the first-ever movie theatre in the city. In the many years since, it’s been the premier destination for Madrid’s cinema go-ers, thanks to a series of tasteful refurbishments that have maintained its character and history. Today, you won’t be able to miss its bright yellow facade, paired with its name proudly illuminated in blue signage. Inside the theatre, films are primarily shown in their original versions, rather than the dubbed – the most common variation in Spain – to keep the movie experience as true as possible.
Cabrera says: “It’s one of Spain’s oldest cinemas dating back to 1916 and such a historic destination.”
Dabiz Muñoz of Diverxo recommends:
Savas Bar
@savasbar
1. de la Sombrerería, 3, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Savas is centred around classic cocktails with a Northern European twist
This minimalist drinking den in the Lavapiés neighbourhood has a straightforward ethos: ‘We make cocktails.’ As expected, Savas Bar takes its cocktail creation seriously, offering a line-up of drinks centred around classic cocktails. Some creations, such as the Nordic Negroni made with cranberry vodka and aquavit in place of gin, bring a Northern European touch to the concoction, courtesy of its Lithuanian owners.
Muñoz says: “It’s a small and humble place that is serious about its cocktail-making technique, original flavours and menus that are based on very personal and unique concepts.”
Finca Vista Alegre Palace
Carabanchel, 28025 Madrid, Spain
Head into the suburbs for a serene stroll in the gardens of Finca Vista Alegre Palace (Image: Zarateman via Wikimedia Commons)
Swap the non-stop eating and drinking for a little taste of the city’s culture – head 25 minutes Southwest of the centre into the suburbs to visit Finca Vista Alegre Palace. This historic property dates back to the 19th century and has been occupied by a stellar roster of influential figures throughout its history. When it was acquired by Queen María Cristina de Borbón, she ordered the creation of picturesque gardens that have been immaculately maintained in the centuries since. Today, it’s open year-round for visitors to stroll along its peaceful, serene paths while admiring the beautiful flora.
Muñoz says: “It’s a mostly unknown and marvellously peaceful place in a very residential but booming neighbourhood in Madrid.”
La Catapa
@lacatapa
1. de Menorca, 14, Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain
World-renowned chef Dabiz Muñoz heads to La Catapa for classic Madrid cuisine
On the Eastern edge of El Retiro Park lies La Catapa, another favoured locale taberna (tavern). La Catapa brings a contemporary touch to the hyper-traditional Spanish eating and drinking concept, with chef Miguel Ángel Jiménez adding a personal, elevated touch to tried-and-tested fare. Expect plates of boquerones (anchovies) followed by delicate razor clams and spoonfuls of hearty rice simmered with mushrooms and oxtail, all paired with a generous glass of wine or beer. Don’t miss out on the blackboard, which always features a dish of the day.
Muñoz says: “It’s an informal, humble and seriously flavourful spot. It’s probably my favourite spot for tapas and pintxos in the city.”
Mario Villalón of Angelita recommends:
La Fisna
@lafisna.vinoycata
1. del Amparo, 91, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain
La Fisna is a wine bar and favoured hangout of Angelita's Mario Villalón
Back in the buzzy Lavapiés area, La Fisna is a laid-back wine bar and a favoured casual hangout of local Madridleños. Exposed brick, vintage posters and a curated rotation of interesting bottles give the space the homely charm of a traditional Spanish tavern, and its hefty 37-page wine menu will make sure you won’t go home thirsty. Its encyclopaedic list runs the gamut of vintages from across western Europe available by the glass. Cañas – small beers – are also available. The rustic dishes outlined on the dining room blackboard, and mainly consisting of charcuterie and plates of meatballs, make the perfect pairing to its expansive wine offering.
Villalón says: “If you like wine, La Fisna is my go-to destination. For in-store prices, you get restaurant level service and a simple but delicious food menu. It’s a must-visit.”
Holy Drop
@holydrop.whiskybar
Calle de Sandoval, 15, Chamberí, 28010 Madrid, Spain
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Holy Drop is one the newest additions to the Madrid drinks scene and is home to one of the city’s most extensive whisky collections. The enclave is not just for the aficionados, though. Great service, led by founder Ezequiel Riesgo, paired with generous pricing – with some glasses available for as little as €4.50 – make this spot just as welcoming to those looking to learn their scotches from their bourbons. Cocktails, beers and sparkling wines are also treated with just as much care, and food comes in the form of a small but mighty menu of dishes primarily cooked over fire, such as the slow-smoked brisket.
Villalón says: “Holy Drop just opened in the city and is a spirit-lovers paradise. It has more than 750 different whiskeys to try and a great range of cocktails.”
For more destinations to explore in both the City of Madrid (Madrid City Council) and Region of Madrid, head to 50 Best Discovery
