Madrid is a paradise for food lovers, and while we could list countless culinary gems, these seven dishes best capture the city’s gastronomic soul.
For those visiting Madrid during the European Team Championships, you’re in for more than just world-class athletics. From June 26 to 29, the city—host to Europe’s top athletes—offers a vibrant food scene that ranks among the best globally. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Madrid’s culinary offerings are a highlight not to be missed.
As a global capital, Madrid boasts cuisines from every corner of the world. However, we invite spectators at Vallehermoso Stadium, where thrilling races, jumps, and throws unfold, to savor the authentic flavors of Madrid’s traditional dishes before, during, or after the events.
The Madrid region’s flag features seven stars, so we’ve curated seven iconic dishes, guided by Joaquín Felipe, a world-renowned chef born in the city, and Gloria Señaris, both of Atocha 107 Restaurant, located on one of Madrid’s most famous streets. You can sample some of these dishes at their restaurant or explore the city’s countless eateries to indulge your taste buds.
COCIDO MADRILEÑO
The crown jewel of Madrid’s cuisine, cocido madrileño is the dish most locals would choose if forced to pick just one. Though summer may not be its traditional season, this hearty stew is worth trying. A humble broth that transcends social classes, it’s served in three stages (or vuelcos, in local slang): first, a rich soup made from boiled ingredients; then, chickpeas, cabbage, potatoes, and other vegetables; and finally, a medley of meats—beef, chorizo, pork fat, and ham. With endless variations, each kitchen adds its own touch. If you manage dessert after this feast, you deserve a standing ovation.
BOCADILLO DE CALAMARES
Known locally as bocata de calamares, this squid sandwich is a Madrid classic—surprising for a landlocked city. Its origins trace back to Catholic Church bans on meat centuries ago, boosting demand for seafood. Today, squid rings are coated in a chickpea-and-wheat flour batter, lightly salted, and fried in extra virgin olive oil (Spain’s “liquid gold”). Tucked between two hearty slices of bread, biting into this sandwich is as exhilarating as sprinting 100 meters in under 10 seconds.
CALLOS A LA MADRILEÑA
A winter favorite that holds its own year-round, callos is a bold stew of beef or ram stomach, served piping hot in clay pots with chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and ham. Alongside cocido madrileño, it vies for the city’s gastronomic gold medal. Whether it takes the top spot depends on your taste, but it’s undeniably a podium contender.
BOCADILLO DE ENTRESIJOS Y GALLINEJAS
Another bocata makes the list, reflecting Madrid’s love for street food that’s easy to eat on the go. This dish is not for the faint-hearted: entresijos and gallinejas are parts of baby lamb intestines—gallinejas being the thicker, entresijos the softer, milder portion. Fried in their own fat until golden, they’re served in bread or on a plate with fries. After indulging, a run in Parque del Retiro or Casa de Campo will keep you feeling light.
BOQUERONES EN VINAGRE
A quintessential appetizer, these marinated anchovies (boquerones) are found in nearly every Madrid bar. The small fish are filleted and soaked in vinegar, garlic, and parsley, creating a tangy, refreshing bite. Pair them with beer, water, or soda—wine isn’t the best match.
BACALAO EN TEMPURA
Madrid’s love affair with seafood shines in this dish. Cod is lightly coated in flour (not batter, which includes egg) and fried to perfection. Compared to the richer dishes on this list, it’s practically a “light” option, yet its flavor is anything but understated.
SOLDADITOS DE PAVÍA
Another cod-based delight, these battered strips are served cold with roasted red peppers. Often found in Madrid’s traditional taverns, they’re paired with a glass of wine. Their name’s origin is debated, but one theory links it to the red-jacketed hussars of General Pavía, whose 1874 actions dissolved the First Republic. Keep an eye on red-uniformed teams at Vallehermoso—they might inspire a renaming if they dominate.
BONUS: CHURROS
No Madrid food journey is complete without churros. These golden, fried dough sticks—made from water, wheat flour, oil, and salt—are shaped into rods or loops and sometimes dusted with sugar or dipped in thick hot chocolate. Perfect for breakfast with coffee or as an afternoon snack, they’re also the ideal way to cap off a night out, whether celebrating a victory or consoling a defeat.
