Budget-Friendly Dining in
Madrid
Nine places where a good meal in Madrid stays cheap. Some are loud, some are standing room only, and that’s part of the deal.
Prices and opening hours were checked in November 2026 and can change, so confirm them before you go.
Museo del Jamon
Museo del Jamón is a Madrid chain founded in 1978, known for ham sandwiches, combination plates and set menus.
Good to know: this is the Gran Vía branch. The chain has several other central locations, and its daily menu cannot be reserved.
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El Tigre
El Tigre is a loud, crowded Chueca cider and tapas bar where a beer or cider traditionally comes with a free plate of tapas.
Good to know: it is walk-in only at the bar. Its main bar is at Calle de las Infantas 30, and a sister bar is at number 23.
El miniBAR
El miniBAR is a small tapas bar on Calle del Mesón de Paños, in central Madrid.
Good to know: reservations are by phone.
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Casa Labra
Casa Labra is a historic tavern by Puerta del Sol, dating from 1860 and known for fried salt-cod slices and cod croquettes.
Good to know: it is also where the Spanish Socialist Party was founded in 1879.
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Taberna Malaspina
Taberna Malaspina is a simple taberna near Sol with stools and small tables, known in reviews for huevos rotos and tortilla.
Good to know: the average bill is under €20.
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Cherry Pecas
Cherry Pecas is a casual Chamberí spot serving Mexican staples such as tacos, nachos and customisable burritos.
Good to know: the average bill is under €20.
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Casa Mingo
Casa Mingo is a traditional Asturian cider house near Príncipe Pío, known for roast chicken, chorizo in cider and its house ciders.
Good to know: expect to pay about €16–30 per person.
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La Pizzateca
La Pizzateca is a Barrio de las Letras pizzeria with vegan and vegetarian options. Time Out highlights its carbonara and teriyaki pizzas.
Good to know: the average bill is about €20–30.
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La Sanabresa
La Sanabresa is a traditional central Madrid restaurant with a set lunch menu.
Good to know: reservations are by phone.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I get free tapas in Madrid?
At El Tigre in Chueca, a drink traditionally comes with a free plate of tapas.
Which of these restaurants is best for a sit-down traditional meal?
Casa Mingo, an Asturian cider house near Príncipe Pío, is known for roast chicken with cider at about €16–30 per person.