In 2026, Madrid was awarded 31 Michelin-starred restaurants. But sometimes, you feel like your stomach needs something more classic.
Chef Joan Roca said during one of his talks at Madrid Fusión that “every now and then, we need to remember that simple things can be sublime.”
- LA ANCHA
This could perfectly apply to the tasty stewed lentils found on the menu at La Ancha. Its menu is purely traditional and focuses on quality products. My favorite? The Spanish omelet with clams and green beans with prawns.
Located on Calle Zorrilla.
- CASA FELISA
Housed in the stately Hotel Urso, the Casa Felisa restaurant offers traditional, authentic cuisine with a touch of modernity. Behind the stoves is veteran chef Antonio del Álamo, who adds the iconic Madrid stew to his gastronomic offerings at this time of year. The chef serves this recipe on Sundays, preparing it step by step as his mother taught him (with Pedrosillano chickpeas and locally sourced meat and vegetables). The menu also offers other options for indulging in hearty dishes, such as light garlic soup with poached egg and mushrooms or traditional Felisa-style tripe.
Located on Beneficiencia St # 15.
- LA RAQUETISTA
Although its torreznos (crispy fried pork rinds) are perhaps La Raquetista’s most iconic dish, there is much more to savor at this restaurant located in the El Retiro neighborhood. Javier Aparicio’s skill with stews is unquestionable. And if you like to try different vegetable dishes, the chickpeas with butifarra sausage, mushrooms, and foie gras are a real treat. If you prefer a rice dish, the creamy rice with pork cheeks is also a great alternative. Since 2022, La Raquetista has had a second ‘branch’ in Juan Bravo. Both share the same spirit as Cachivache and Salino (also in the capital), the other establishments belonging to the same restaurant group.
Located on Doctor Castelo St# 19.
- CANDELI
Their grilled meats are undoubtedly the hallmark of Candeli’s cuisine. Fish lovers will also be very happy at this restaurant on the lively Ponzano Street. But when the mercury drops, brothers Alberto and Francisco Rivera add tasty stews to the menu. These days, for example, the menu offers two versions of beans : with seasonal mushrooms or baby squid. Traditional tripe is also on offer. This is the perfect place for those looking for seasonal cuisine made with impeccable ingredients.
Ponzano St # 47.
- LA CARMENCITA
This tavern is a gem that remains almost unchanged since it was founded in 1854. Its decorative tiles on the walls, zinc bar, and beer tap are legendary. Artists from the Generation of ’27 frequented this place, Federico García Lorca lived in the same building, and artists such as Ava Garner also visited. But what is truly wonderful is that its stews are still comforting and fabulous. My favorite from Taberna La Carmecita is the beef meatballs.
Located on Libertad St #16
