After a morning spent wandering the manicured pathways, shaded groves, and grand monuments of Parque del Buen Retiro, hunger has a way of sneaking up on you. This iconic green space is not just the lungs of Madrid; it is also the geographic center of one of the city’s most vibrant culinary districts. Whether you are exiting near the Puerta de Alcalá, the Alfonso XII street entrance, or the southern tip by Atocha, you are surrounded by exceptional dining options.
The area surrounding the park is a fascinating mix of old-world Madrid charm and modern gastronomic innovation. The neighborhoods bordering the park—including the upscale Salamanca district, the literary Barrio de las Letras, and the museum-heavy Jerónimos area—offer a diverse range of menus. You can find everything from traditional Castilian stews to avant-garde tasting menus, all within a short stroll of the park’s gates.
Choosing where to eat in such a tourist-heavy zone can be tricky, as not every establishment lives up to its prime location. It is easy to fall into a trap of overpriced, mediocre food if you do not know where the locals go. However, with a bit of insider knowledge, you can find authentic taverns, bustling seafood bars, and elegant terraces that honor Madrid’s rich culinary heritage.
The best dining experiences near El Retiro balance atmosphere with substance. Many of these restaurants have been serving patrons for decades, acting as social hubs for artists, politicians, and families alike. Others are newer additions that have quickly earned Michelin recognition or critical acclaim for pushing the boundaries of Spanish cuisine while respecting local ingredients.
This guide focuses on variety, quality, and proximity to the park. Whether you are looking for a quick, casual bite before heading to the Prado Museum or a leisurely, multi-course lunch after a rowboat ride on the lake, there is a table waiting for you. We have prioritized establishments known for their consistency, service, and ability to deliver an authentic taste of Madrid.
We have scoured the side streets and main avenues to bring you a curated list that avoids the tourist traps. The selections below range from historic institutions serving cocido madrileño to sleek spaces specializing in rice dishes and fresh seafood. No matter which you choose, you will be fueling up for the rest of your exploration in one of Europe’s most walkable cities.
Below is a selection of the finest tables located just steps from the greenery, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice quality for convenience.
Erre Que Erre Retiro
| Address | C. de Narváez, 72, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 AM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 AM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 AM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 AM Friday: 8:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 12:30 AM |
| Phone | 911 49 63 96 |
We are extremely happy to find Erre Que Erre restaurant at the back side of the beautiful Retiro Park in our last night in Madrid. They have local and super fresh foods. Its a sharing type of menu and 4 hungry adults we got extremely full with 7 plates. Everything we ate were super delicious. We would like to especially thank to our waitress Elena for her kind, attentive, and professional service. Her recommendations were made our last dinner in Spain unforgettable. (We even forgot to take pictures of the burrito feld salad and biff dish - both are strongly recommended!)
This place was amazing!! I let my server pick all my dishes. And each one was better than the last. The squid ink croquettes were simply lovely. A thunderstorm preoccupied my thoughts. As I was trying to time my walk between rain and lightning storms, to get back to my hotel safely. Sadly I just saw a % on my bill and thought it was the service charge. It was not until I was back at my hotel that I realized it was the tax. Not the tip. So I do hope a wonderful review makes up for my lack of paying attention. I will definitely recommend this restaurant to everyone I meet. And if I am ever in Madrid again, I will definitely be coming back for the wonderful food. The lovely service and relaxing atmosphere.
Amazing place. The food was delicious and Elena provided an amazing service
Customer service is definitely lacking understanding and professionalism. We were sitting outside earlier today and suddenly the heavy rain started so we took our drinks and went inside. It wasn't allowed to sit unless we wanted to order dinner so we were standing near the entrance when a waitress brought us the bill and said we had to finish up our drink and leave as there was no space to sit (even though there were 2 spare seats at the bar). It was raining really hard outside but we were made to leave and found another place soon after.
The food was amazing and so were the drinks. Elena was a pleasure to talk to and offered amazing service. So happy we dined here.
El Patio de Triana. Taberna andaluza en Retiro
| Address | Calle del Dr. Castelo, 15, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:30 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 919 55 07 29 |
Para Nicolas:
I’m leaving this review because, first of all, the place is excellent. But above all, I wanted to mention Nicolas, who was incredibly kind and attentive throughout our visit. He made sure we had everything we needed and didn’t miss anything.
I will definitely be coming back!
P.S. The area is lovely as well, which made the experience even better.
Nice place in a nice area.
AMAZING Steak Tartare.
It's worth it just for this one.
The only good thing is the decor. The food was terrible, service too. You ask for meat and they give you pure fat. It was inedible. And servers are particularly rude and discriminating. It’s a joke of an establishment.
Good food, good ambient and good service of staff
Amazing food from the south of spain. Great atmosphere and super fun waiter Raul Azcona, who gave very nice recommendations!!!
Gaditana Retiro
| Address | Calle del Dr. Castelo, 26, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 614 26 36 55 |
Had a wonderful dining experience here. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was welcoming, and everything was prepared with great attention to detail.
A special thank you to Felix for his outstanding service. He was friendly, attentive, and incredibly professional throughout the entire meal. He made sure everything was perfect and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. His warm attitude and thoughtful service truly enhanced our experience.
Highly recommended, and we will definitely come back!
Felix is the best waiter, he advised us on the best dishes and everything was delicious. He’s very kind and speaks perfect English. Highly recommend coming here!
We visited the location near El Retiro Park and had a pleasant experience overall. The food was fresh, well-prepared, and enjoyable everything we ordered was nicely done and tasted good.
The service was correct, with a friendly and attentive waiter who made us feel welcome throughout our visit. Portion sizes were well balanced, and we left satisfied.
The space has a casual feel, with a bar area at the front and a few tables towards the back, which gives it a relaxed and informal atmosphere. It also has a very local vibe, which we really appreciated, as it doesn’t feel like a touristy restaurant.
Overall, a nice place to visit, especially given its location near El Retiro, and a solid option if you’re in the area.
After finished the tour of park, we found a local restaurant. It’s a nice place, friendly , lovely and good pealla for us. Specially thank Luis to serve us. I will come here for that next Madrid trip~
The food was really great. Felix made us feel really comfortable and gave great recommendations. Definitely will come back again!
Murillo Café - Restaurante
| Address | C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 27, Retiro, 28014 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 913 69 36 89 |
The food was absolutely delicious, especially the sea bass ，onion soup, huevos rotos with Iberian ham and truffle risotto. Sebastian was friendly, attentive, and provided excellent service. We had a wonderful experience and would definitely come back!
When we arrived they didn't serve coffee because their coffee machine was broken. But we stayed to drink a lemonade. It's very nice inside, they have many tables. Avara has a few tables for 2 people near the place.
We had:
Tuna tartar - it was awesome with all the sides
Some steak - meat was really good, but side was not enough, and not so tasty (some kind of deep fried potato)
Desert - Carrot cake and Pavlova, perfect 😍
Service was okay, but their English wasn't, at the end we manage to comunicate.
For sure it's place with really good food and that's what matters.
Walk in customers on a cold afternoon after visit to Prado museum. Was happy that food was being served from 1230pm onwards. Enjoyed the hearty chicken soup and the flavourful pumpkin soup.
Murillo Café feels like one of those places you don’t expect to find outside Venezuela. I tried several things and everything was on point, but the polvorosa de pollo really stood out. It instantly took me back to Venezuela, where I had it many times growing up, pure comfort food, the kind that brings memories with every bite.
The tequeños were light and crispy, not oily, and clearly made with care. The numpias were another favorite, crunchy, flavorful, and even better dipped in soy sauce, which adds a subtle Asian twist without taking away from what makes them special.
The sliders were kind of normal, nothing special.
What truly completes the experience is the attention. It’s warm, natural, and welcoming, making you feel at home without trying too hard. Murillo Café delivers authenticity, nostalgia, and genuinely good food.
Juana la Loca Retiro
| Address | C. de Menorca, 3, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:30 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:30 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:30 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:30 PM – 2:30 AM Saturday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:30 PM – 2:30 AM Sunday: 1:30 – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 673 44 31 96 |
Noemí our waitress was phenomenal, food & atmosphere 10/10
Arriving at a restaurant right before closing can often feel rushed, but our experience at Juana La Loca was the complete opposite, thanks entirely to the incredible Guille! 🌟
He welcomed us with the warmest, most attentive energy and guided us with stellar recommendations so we could order on the spot. Because of his amazing hospitality, we relaxed and enjoyed the absolute best of this vibrant kitchen. 🍽️
Here is how our culinary journey unfolded:
The Savory Starters & Tapas 🇪🇸
Pincho de Tortilla con Cebolla Confitada 🥚🧅
Widely celebrated as one of the absolute favorites in the entire capital, and it completely lives up to the hype! It was beautifully moist, runny, and melted on the inside, luxuriously creamy and bursting with rich flavor.
Croquetas de Espinacas y Queso Cheddar 🥬🧀
These golden bites were spectacular. Each mouthful revealed a velvety, rich texture that perfectly combined the earthy notes of spinach with the sharp, comforting melt of cheddar.
Carpaccio de Alcachofas 🪵
Simply outstanding. Easily one of the best artichoke dishes I have ever tasted! The delicate arranged layers of artichoke were incredibly tender, offering a distinguished, refined flavor in every single bite.
Raviolis de Setas y Trufa 🍄
Baked to a perfect golden-brown under a decadent, bubbling cream sauce. Earthy, savory, and incredibly comforting.
The Mains & A Tiny Suggestion 🥪🌡️
The Classic Katsu Sando 🥪
A luxurious delight! Made with thin-sliced, buttery bread, it featured a perfectly tender center and was topped with what looked like a glistening, crown of orange caviar (roe) that added a wonderful pop of texture.
Sándwich de Cangrejo de Concha Blanda 🦀
This soft-shell crab sandwich was crunchy and undeniably interesting. However, with so many other mind-blowing options on the table, I think next time I would opt to order a double portion of another plate instead of this one.
We did notice that a few of our savory dishes, specifically the Pincho de Tortilla and the Katsu, initially arrived a bit on the cooler side. Thankfully, when we mentioned it, Guille was an absolute star and immediately had them warmed up for us on the spot!
While his quick fix saved the day, it would be a fantastic improvement for future guests if these dishes already came out warm from the start. Having that famous tortilla served warm over beautifully toasted bread, and the katsu with that same comforting warmth, would elevate these already incredible flavors to absolute perfection! 🔥🍞
Volcán de Dulce de Leche con Helado de Coco 🌋🍨
The undisputed gem of our night! Instead of the usual chocolate, this warm, oozing volcano cake is filled with rich, decadent dulce de leche. Paired with a cold, refreshing scoop of coconut ice cream, it was pure magic.
We are already looking forward to our next visit, where trying their highly anticipated Arroz Negro is at the very top of our list! 🦑
Beyond the plate, this spot is packed with amazing energy. Tucked away in the back is an intimate, hidden area dedicated to live music alongside a chill bar area where you can sit back and enjoy the great notes of the musicians. 🎷🥁
The decor is effortlessly hip and modern, plastering the walls with vintage vinyl records and iconic emblems of star musicians (like The Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana) that give the entire space a magnetic personality and rock-and-roll attitude. 🎸
Juana La Loca is a phenomenal spot to bring someone special to enjoy world-class food, a lively, stylish environment, and, above all, exceptionally friendly attention. Thank you again to Guille for going above and beyond for us! We will definitely be back! 🙌🏻
Excellent Food , 1st class tapas , amazing music and great service from Steven
Had a lovely lunch, everything was perfect!
Paul was very detailed in the description of the plates and the suggestions, WOW, loved everything.
The nigiri was perfect, the eel melted in the mouth.
Definitely something to try!!
Great food, music with DJ. Cool!
Taberna & Media
| Address | C. de Lope de Rueda, 30, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 5:30 PM |
| Phone | 918 67 58 42 |
Absolutely delicious tapas - with such a creative twist! Silvia was lovely and her recommendations were fantastic. The restaurant has been recommended via various guides and won awards for tapas on their menu. The mushrooms and patatas bravas are not to be missed.
What an absolute gem this place is! Each dish was outstanding and so well balanced. We had the shitake mushrooms with a sweet foam on top-incredible! Then the patatas bravas which are unique in this place. Red tuna in garlic sauce and pine nuts, and finally the basil risotto with the red prawn and almonds which was a dream!
Incredible food, staff and atmosphere. As authentic as it gets. The award winning patatas bravas were mind blowing, as was everything else. I’ll be back each time I visit Madrid. We got lucky getting a table… it is a bit of timing / luck of the draw.
Excellent local tapas restaurant. Patatas bravas, mushrooms with foie gras and Chiporones were all really good. Tripe stew is a must to try. Good extensive wine list with wines all over Spain.
Wow!!!
This has been one of the best surprises while in Madrid.
While in this great city, you know you will eat well anywhere, but then there is this great, little spot that is favored by locals who know where to go to enjoy a great meal and feel at home.
They turn every dish into a masterpiece.
Ichel and the rest of team were great and a big part of my decision to leave this post.
Will definitely be back every time I'm in Madrid.
Brisket Restaurante
| Address | C. de Moreto, 7, Retiro, 28014 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | 696 38 92 75 |
We arrived just before 4 in the afternoon and had some iberico pluma steak. It was perfectly cooked and served on a hot stone. The more I left it on the better the flavours got. Then we shared a apple tart with icecream which was one of the best deserts I had in a while. The prices are on the steeper side but well worth it.
Absolutely fantastic food! Everything we ordered was full of flavour and cooked to perfection. The brisket was incredibly tender, juicy, and easily some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The portions were generous, the atmosphere was great, and the staff were friendly and attentive. You can really tell that a lot of care goes into the food here. If you’re a fan of good barbecue and delicious comfort food, this place is a must-visit. I would happily come back again!
Great little restaurant just a few steps from El Retiro Park. We booked a table for lunch thankfully as the place was full. It was busy and initially the service seemed a little rushed but it got better as the meal went on. The food was excellent, I ordered the brisket for a main course but it came out with the starters so maybe worth clarifying this when ordering. It was delicious but not huge. The other mains were very good and the fillet steak excellent. The deserts are also worth a try, all in all a great restaurant
Everything about this place is perfect. It’s close to El Prado and El Retiro; the food is delicious; and the service is wonderful. We highly recommend visiting this restaurant. We got the Caesar salad, brisket with potatoes, and caramel and white chocolate cheesecake… and it might be some of the best we’ve ever eaten - not just in Madrid. I miss it already.
We had a dinner to celebrate our anniversary here. It’s a small, cozy and very friendly restaurant. Service and explanations were great. We had artichoke, tomato salad, Brisket and pistachio cheesecake. Everything was great including the wine.
La Castela
| Address | Calle del Dr. Castelo, 22, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:30 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:30 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 915 74 00 15 |
We ate calamari, beef, salad, and cheesecake. They were delicious. You should try this place. We were lucky to find an available table. The reservation is necessary. Note: The shrimp was complimentary.
Overall, the experience was great—except if you are not a local, make sure they split the bill correctly. We were a party of three and were charged €37 each from a total of €101.30, whereas other restaurants we've been to around the area charged us the correct amount.
Where do I even begin.. I have been in love with this Spanish vibe bar since my very first visit to Madrid back in 2021 — and yes, we are still going strong.
I have been here around 20+ times and the quality has never ever disappointed. Every dish is consistently exceptional — which is honestly rare.
If it is your first time, start with the milhojas served with their unique bread. That combo alone deserves its own fan club. Then move on to some mariscos with a glass of white wine. Finish with either fish or meat depending on your mood.
And don’t forget to check the “sugerencias” — that is often where the real magic hides.
All the Spanish magic is packed into this place. Come hungry, leave happy. Zero regrets — only plans to come back!!
It is one of the best restaurants I've ever been to, and I'm an italian who loves good cuisine!!! When in Madrid, it is a MUST.
The menu never changes, because it doesn't need any change. Amazing food, very good white wines, at a reasonable price for what you get.
The only downside is that being so good you must book it usually some weeks before.
The tuna salad and the rice with squid are something else (In the pic, I ordered it without octopus, usually it has also that)... I think I'll have to book again now ~
Food: I’m very disappointed when I see the beef steak with foie gras(thin like skin) are totally different from the photo of other reviews! Seafood is very salty with little sand. Seafood rice is just up to standard. I had high expectation but nothing surprises me eventually.
Price: Reasonable? 70EUR for two without any drinks and dessert.
Service: Quite good actually. The waiter is very helpful and friendly.
Environment: Small space, small table, good enough for drinking but not for eating.
Can Bonet - Restaurante Cocina Catalana
| Address | Av. de Menéndez Pelayo, 15, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 1:00 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 1:00 PM – 12:30 AM |
| Phone | 910 46 44 08 |
Very nice and cozy place. We decided to go there based on other english reviews and we were very glad we did. As people with very little spanish knowledge, we were very well welcomed by Jeremy who spoke english with us. We had english menus aswell! We ordered two main plates, cocktails and dessert and it was just delicious !! The atmosphere, the music, the deco was really on point as much as the service and the food. I would recommend any time, and hope to go back there if we visit Madrid another time!
Hernan looked after me so well. Recomennded the TBone amd it was simply perfect. Expertly prepared. Highly recommend the whole experience.
amazing!! the quail was amazing, and my server, jeremy, was super attentive and accommodating of my unique allergy. i very rarely get such special attention to my allergy in spain, but he made sure to let me know every dish my table ordered that i could and couldnt eat. i really appreciate that. great service 🥰
We came almost 5pm just want crema catalana. They almost refused us since the kitchen is closed and we did not have reservation. In the end the guy offered us the seat, and we enjoyed wine coffee and desert. Overall is vety good. Next time we will try their food.
I’ve lived in Madrid for four years and this is hands down one of my favourite restaurants! The caracoles are the best in town, and all of the dishes are unique and full of flavour. I cannot recommend it enough! And Jordan is a wonderful server, he made the experience so special.
Castelados
| Address | C. de Antonio Acuña, 18, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:30 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:30 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:30 – 5:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 910 51 56 25 |
One of those places I wish I discovered earlier.
We came around lunchtime and got seats at the bar — cozy and comfortable. The beef ham here was unique — served with olive oil and pistachios, which added a really nice texture and freshness.
The standout dish for me was the squid with onion — probably one of the best dishes I had on this trip. Still thinking about it❤️😋
Service was great, especially from a staff member (named Ricky?, in dark-color uniform, in charge of outdoor space on 14th Mar). Definitely coming back next time.
The service was really good, offered suggestions without pressuring. Food was fantastic, big portions too. After dinner drinks generous. It is a keeper!
The best meal we had in Madrid. Be sure to order the squid, creamy rice and razor clams. Everything is fresh and delicious.
Excellent seafood.Their sautéed artichokes are delicious. Make reservations, it's a small place and always full. Great for lunch
Castelados is a classic Spanish restaurant that clearly has earned its reputation, as evidenced by how hard it is to get a table without a reservation - a sure sign of both popularity and quality.
The restaurant truly shines with its amazing range of seafood offerings, showcasing the best of Spanish coastal cuisine. The variety and freshness of the seafood selections demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to sourcing quality ingredients and preparing them with traditional Spanish techniques.
The fantastic oxtail (rabo de toro) was a standout dish, featuring tender, slow-braised meat that fell off the bone, rich with deep, savory flavors that exemplify the best of traditional Spanish comfort food. This dish alone showcases why Castelados has maintained its reputation as a classic Spanish establishment.
However, diners should be prepared for the restaurant to get quite loud during dinner service, as the intimate space doesn't have a big dining area, which can lead to cramped seating and poor acoustics when the restaurant fills up. The close quarters mean conversations from neighboring tables can easily carry over, creating a boisterous atmosphere that some may find overwhelming.
A special shout out goes to the Filipino waiters and kitchen staff who are doing an amazing job - their professionalism, attentiveness, and dedication to providing excellent service truly elevate the dining experience despite the challenging space constraints. Their hard work behind the scenes and front of house contributes significantly to making Castelados the beloved institution it has become in Madrid's dining scene.
La Tasca del Retiro
| Address | Av. de Menéndez Pelayo, 11, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:30 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 910 05 35 66 |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing tapas experience near El Retiro!
If you’re visiting Madrid and want to experience authentic Spanish tapas, La Tasca del Retiro is a must-visit.
We were a party of four and arrived around 4:00 PM on a Saturday without a reservation, when the restaurant was completely packed. Thankfully, Rubén from Barranquilla, Colombia, went above and beyond to help us find a table. His hospitality, friendliness, and professionalism made us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. Outstanding service!
The food was absolutely incredible and truly reflects the flavors locals enjoy in Spain. Everything we tried was delicious:
• 100% authentic Iberian ham with pan tumaca
• Mixed cheese platter with nuts
• Cochinita pibil taco with lime and purple onion
• Ham croquettes (crispy outside, creamy inside)
• Beef entrecôte with fries and peppers cooked perfectly
• Handmade burger with truffled pecorino
• And to finish, the house cheesecake, which was phenomenal.
Every dish was beautifully prepared, flavorful, and clearly made with high-quality ingredients.
The combination of excellent food, a vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service from Rubén made this one of the highlights of our visit to Madrid. We came looking to try the tapas locals love, and La Tasca del Retiro delivered beyond expectations.
Highly recommended if you’re near Retiro Park and want a memorable dining experience in Madrid. We will definitely return! 🇪🇸🍷🍽️
I visited this restaurant yesterday with my 8-year-old daughter. We ordered water, some croquettes, and a typical Spanish salad for her. I always keep track of prices to avoid surprises — but this time I was really taken aback.
When the waiter brought the bill, it was about 15 euros higher, with several dishes listed that we had never ordered. What’s strange is that we actually received exactly what we ordered — but the bill showed completely different items, at higher prices.
I immediately said I wouldn’t pay for things I didn’t order. The waiter then brought the menu and tried to show me what I had supposedly asked for — but it didn’t match what we had eaten or what was on the receipt. After insisting for a while, he finally corrected the bill and charged only for what we had actually ordered.
I promised him I would mention this experience in my review — unfortunately, I forgot his name.
It seems that local residents might be treated differently than tourists. If you’re visiting as a tourist, be cautious: write down what you order and the prices, so you don’t get any unpleasant surprises.
Overall, it was a disappointing experience, especially since I was there with my child.
Not recommended.
Reply :
As mentioned in my review above, the dishes I ordered are clearly listed there. Both items are placed next to each other on your menu. During my visit, however, the waiter tried to show me something on the opposite side of the menu with an ironic smile.
Unfortunately for him, he met someone who doesn’t allow himself to be easily deceived. What made the situation even worse was that it happened in front of my 8-year-old daughter, to whom I then had to explain that someone had tried to cheat us.
They were very accommodating to our nut allergy and very attentive. Thank you!
Let’s keep it short: clean and nice staff, but the food is not special. I know 2 stars are hard, but in relation to the other places I reviewed, this does not qualify for the next round. Not a clear recommendation. I am sorry.
Let‘s use the time we saved by keeping the review short to explain the world why tennis is 100x better and cooler than padel:
Let’s be honest. Padel is tennis for people who were afraid of tennis. It’s the sport you play when you want the Instagram story but not the discipline. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with having fun, but let’s not confuse a fun hobby with a great sport.
Here is why tennis stands alone:
It demands everything from you. Tennis is one of the most physically and mentally demanding individual sports in existence. You have no walls to save you, no glass to bail you out. Every shot is yours to own, and every mistake is yours to carry. That pressure builds character.
The court is a stage. There is a reason Wimbledon, Roland Garros, the US Open, and the Australian Open are among the most iconic sporting events on the planet. Tennis has history, tradition, and a romance that padel, invented in a Mexican backyard in 1969, simply cannot replicate.
The sound. That crisp, clean thwack of a perfectly struck tennis ball? Pure joy. The padel equivalent sounds like someone hitting a frying pan against a wall.
It never gets easy. Tennis rewards you for life. The more you put in, the more it gives back. It is a lifelong conversation between you and the court, one that constantly challenges, humbles, and occasionally rewards you with a moment of pure perfection.
DJOKOVIĆ IS THE ONE AND ONLY GOAT
Amazing food and service. They didn't have an English menu but the waitress was really nice and translated everything. Quality of the fish and meat was exceptional! Also great atmosphere and wines. Highly recommended
La Taberna De Buendi - Restaurante en Retiro Madrid
| Address | Calle del Dr. Castelo, 15, Retiro, 28009 Madrid |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM |
| Phone | 915 78 27 37 |
A lovely little Taberna full of local people.
Luis (our waiter) spoke little English and the menu was all in Spanish (of which we speak virtually none), but somehow we managed to order a very nice wine and some really tasty food.
A really nice evening in very pleasant surroundings
This is a great spot with reasonable prices near Retiro park and very close to Movistar Arena. They do not have a true kitchen, so food is served as cold tapas and canapés. The food was very tasty and the wine list was solid.
Lovely place, really enjoyed the food here, very laid back and was delicious
Food was amazing, we tried several items. The Roquefort was delicious, olives were amazing. Drinks were good, we had sangria. Tomas was our server and he was exceptional.
Enrique was very friendly and took care to make sure we felt welcomed. The food was great and we will definitely recommend your taberna. My favourite dish was the broad beans and jamon. The bathrooms were immaculate and female friendly which was unexpected.
Tips for Dining Near El Retiro Park
Navigating the restaurant scene in a busy capital requires a bit of local knowledge to ensure you get the best experience possible. The Spanish dining schedule and the high demand for quality tables near the park mean that a little preparation goes a long way. By following a few unwritten rules, you can eat like a local and avoid common pitfalls that often catch visitors off guard.
1. Respect the Spanish Meal Times.
If you want to experience the true atmosphere of these restaurants, adjust your watch to Madrid time. Lunch (la comida) typically begins at 2:00 PM and can last until 4:00 PM, while dinner (la cena) rarely starts before 9:00 PM. If you arrive at 6:00 PM, you will likely find kitchens closed or offering only a limited "merienda" snack menu.
2. Always Book Ahead for Weekends.
The area around El Retiro is popular with both tourists and Madrileños, especially on Saturdays and Sundays when families flock to the park. Walking into a top-tier restaurant without a reservation on a weekend afternoon is a gamble. A quick phone call or online booking the day before will save you from a long wait or disappointment.
3. Look for the "Menú del Día" at Lunch.
To experience high-end cooking without the high-end price tag, take advantage of the fixed-price lunch menu. Many of the more upscale restaurants near the park offer a "Menú del Día" on weekdays. This usually includes a starter, a main course, a drink, and dessert or coffee for a fraction of the à la carte cost.
4. Don’t Skip the Vermouth Aperitif.
Before you sit down for your meal, consider starting with a traditional Spanish aperitif. Ordering a vermut de grifo (vermouth on tap) with a small tapa is a sacred pre-lunch ritual in Madrid. It opens the appetite and gives you a chance to soak in the bustling atmosphere of the neighborhood bars.
5. Check for "Terrazas" in Spring and Fall.
Dining outdoors is one of the great pleasures of visiting Madrid, especially when the weather is mild. Several restaurants near the park offer terraces, but these seats are the first to go. If you want to dine al fresco with a view of the tree-lined streets, request a terrace table specifically when making your reservation.
The culinary landscape surrounding El Retiro is a testament to Madrid’s ability to preserve its traditions while embracing the new. From the sizzling planchas of a classic tapas bar to the refined plating of a modern gastronomic temple, the options are as varied as the park’s own flora. Taking the time to enjoy a proper meal here is not just about refueling; it is an essential part of understanding the city’s culture and rhythm.
As you plan your visit, remember that the best meals are often found by wandering slightly off the main tourist thoroughfares. The streets directly adjacent to the park hold hidden gems that have been perfecting their craft for generations. So, after you have admired the Crystal Palace or climbed the steps to the Monument to Alfonso XII, let your appetite guide you to one of these exceptional dining rooms.
