Spain and Europe as a whole is known for having some amazing food. However, in such a large city as Madrid, it can be difficult to sort through the good and the great places. I've created a list of a few of our favorites throughout the trip that I absolutely would visit again!
Bel Mondo is an Italian restaurant located located near el Parque del Retiro. We stumbled across this place after an activity and were attracted to its cute, fun decor, but after eating, we realized that the food was the real star of the show. They had an extensive drink menu with lots of fun, craft cocktails. The food menu was also nothing short of amazing with small plates like antipastas, pastas, meat entrees, and delicious desserts. After spending lots of time together, my group figured out that we liked to get our own main entree and share lots of appetizers or sharable plates. I went with the spinach, lemon, and ricotta ravioli for myself, and as a table we shared croquettas (a Spanish delicacy) and pizza. Everything was amazing!! It is a little bit of a dressier place and on a busy night, you could need reservations, but it was definitely worth it.
Cherry Pecas was another restaurant that we stumbled across that was absolutely delicious. It was located right near the Nebrija-Augustinus dorms- only about a five minute walk. The reviews called it some of the "best Mexican in Madrid," and we would agree. It was almost a Chipotle-style restaurant with a walk-up bar that you picked your toppings for a bowl or burrito or you could order tacos. The ingredients were fresh, simple, and of course, you could personalize exactly what you wanted. I absolutely would recommend for a quick lunch or dinner if you're needing a taste of your favorite Mexican from home.
Divorare is a place that came recommended to me via TikTok. They serve a variety of sandwiches from their famous Come a Casa to classics like a meatball sub. There are a few locations, which was convenient for us to be able to try it. All of the sandwiches here are fresh, and after you order, you watch them warm up the focaccia, slice your deli meat, and build your sandwich. These were amazing!!! I got the Come a Casa and added honey, which may sound weird, but it absolutely was the best sandwich I've had, and those that I went with would definitely agree. You have to eat here when traveling to Madrid!
Everyone has heard about the churros in Madrid, and that is for a reason. We traveled to San Ginés one night after dinner for a sweet treat. San Ginés has been open since the late 1800s and serves delicious churros with chocolate, ice cream, coffee, and more. One difference in what we're used to in churros is that theirs don't come coated in sugar and cinnamon, but I think there is an option to add it. These were an amazing after dinner treat, and I think a must-try experience while traveling to Madrid.