On November 9, Madrid celebrates its annual festival in honor of the city’s patron saint—Virgen de la Almudena. On this day, the streets fill with a festive atmosphere, as locals and tourists set off in search of the capital’s most vibrant flavors. Classic recipes, modern interpretations, and iconic venues become the main attractions for anyone who appreciates the region’s gastronomic traditions.
The festive spirit is felt from early morning: families gather in the city center to stroll through historic neighborhoods, attend mass, and enjoy a leisurely lunch. The menu features appetizers that have long become symbols of Madrid’s cuisine—from crispy torreznos to hot callos, along with the ever-present vermouth and fresh tapas.
In the Huertas neighborhood, special attention goes to the patatas bravas from Bestial by Rosi la Loca. Chef Javier Alfaro serves up spicy potato cubes with a signature sauce that’s won acclaim both nationally and internationally. Here, guests appreciate not only the flavors but also the setting—the eatery stands out with its vibrant design and quirky decor.
Near the Las Ventas arena, you’ll find Casa Toro, where Madrid and Andalusian traditions come together. Owner César Molero and chef Fran Porras focus on time-honored recipes: famous torreznos, eggs with bulltail stew, and delicate oreja with spicy sauce. Every dish here is prepared gluten-free, a detail especially appreciated by guests with special dietary needs.
Fans of contemporary flavors should check out Cokima on Andrés Mellado street. Here you’ll find creative dishes like fried calamari bao with shiso mayo, and tacos with crispy pig’s ear and pineapple gel. The restaurant is celebrating its fifth anniversary, staying loyal to local ingredients while experimenting with presentation.
If you prefer to relax with a panoramic view, El Jardín de Diana terrace is open on the tenth floor of the Hyatt Centric Gran Vía Madrid hotel. Here you can enjoy signature snacks — from gildas to croquettes with smoked cecina and jamón ibérico. This spot is designed for groups who appreciate atmosphere and a variety of flavors.
In the Las Letras district, Gilda Club is bringing back the Madrid aperitif tradition. The bar-club offers both classic and creative gildas, along with cocktails inspired by the city. During the day, it’s a laid-back place for a quick bite; by evening, it turns into a lively hub for music and socializing.
On the seventh floor of Inhala Hotel Garden, the sky bar serves mini-bocadillo sandwiches with calamari and green aioli. It’s the perfect sunny day option: fresh air, city views, and a light snack with a glass of beer or vermouth.
La Gran Tasca on Santa Engracia street is a standout on Madrid’s gastronomic map. Since 1942, they’ve been cooking callos and cocido using time-honored recipes. During the autumn-winter season, around 20,000 portions are served. The classic cocido includes more than 15 ingredients and takes two days to prepare, while the callos are served with beef foot and snout, lightly spicy and presented in clay pots.
In the suburb of Pozuelo, La Taberna de Elia is renowned not only for its meat dishes but also for its appetizers: torreznos, mollejas, and fried ear. Chef Cata Lupu has been delighting guests for almost twenty years with quality and attention to detail.
Throughout November, Relais & Châteaux Orfila offers the Corona de la Almudena for breakfast — a traditional Madrid pastry with a signature twist by chef Mario Sandoval, who holds two Michelin stars. You can try this dessert on weekdays in the hotel’s elegant dining rooms.
The Virgen de la Almudena festival is not just a religious event, but also an opportunity to discover Madrid’s rich gastronomic scene. Every venue on this route tells part of the city’s story, blending tradition with modernity, leaving unforgettable flavors in your memory.
