Most visitors to Spain quickly become familiar with locals’ much-later mealtimes. Madrileños don’t sit down for lunch until 2 p.m. at the earliest, and don’t even think about eating dinner until at least 9 or 10!
But what if you’re looking to eat even later than the standard Spanish mealtime? Whether you’re getting into town late or looking for some after-dark bites during a night out, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s where to find the best late night food in Madrid for when the midnight hunger strikes.
May 2021 note: Due to the ongoing pandemic, opening hours of many Madrid eateries may change unexpectedly in order to comply with the newest local regulations. Always check the restaurant’s website or social media accounts to get the most up-to-date information!
1. Los Montes de Galicia
Looking for a high-class dining experience late at night?
Los Montes de Galicia is more than just one of the best restaurants open late in Madrid. It’s one of the best restaurants in Madrid, period. The menu takes inspiration from traditional Galician cuisine from northwestern Spain, adding a touch of modern elegance.
Here, you can enjoy your meal in the cozy restaurant space or check out the more casual tapas options available at the sleek bar (best enjoyed with one of their artisanal cocktails). We can’t think of a better stop on a night out in Madrid for late night food.
2. Lady Pepa
A classic on the Madrid nightlife scene, don’t even think about going to Lady Pepa during the daytime. As one of the most exclusive restaurants open late in Madrid, you won’t even be able to get in until nearly dawn!
This fun and vibrant Italian restaurant in Malasaña is the epitome of Madrid nightlife. Come for their famous spaghetti bolognese; stay for the live music and casual, speakeasy-like atmosphere. Soon you’ll see why this unique restaurant is a true institution for late night food in Madrid.
3. Caripen
If a romantic late-night meal is what you’re after, head straight to intriguing, glamorous Caripen.
As one of the most romantic restaurants serving late night food in Madrid, Caripen will whisk you back in time to the glittering Madrid of the 1920s. Its kitchen, headed by a Parisian chef, takes inspiration from French and Italian cuisine to create unforgettable dishes that well deserve the higher-than-average price tag. You might even spot a Spanish celebrity dining here in the wee hours of the morning!
4. Taquería Mi Ciudad
Bite into Mexico at Taquería Mi Ciudad, a family-run taco joint with two locations in the center. As one of the most no-frills, unpretentious late night spots in Madrid, it’s the perfect place to stop and grab a quick bite with friends during your night out.
Their cooking is truly authentic Mexican with all the favorites, as well as a good variety of Mexican beers. And with each taco setting you back just €1.50, it won’t hurt your wallet, either!
5. Bodega La Ardosa
If simple, delicious Spanish home cooking is what you’re after, Bodega La Ardosa is the place for you. This is easily one of the best restaurants open late in Madrid if you’re craving tortilla de patatas (theirs is one of the best in the city!) and other Spanish favorites.
Grab a spot at the bar and order some vermouth and tapas, which you can enjoy until 2 a.m. (even later on weekends). The atmosphere here is purely local, and you get the sense that not much has changed since it opened in 1892.
6. Chocolatería San Ginés
Last but not least is one of the most iconic spots for churros in Madrid—as well as a midnight snack. The legendary Chocolatería San Gines stays open 24 hours, making it a quick and easy stop for late-night churros after a night of partying. Just don’t forget the chocolate.
Late Night Food in Madrid FAQs
Most restaurants close up shop for the evening around 11 p.m. most days, sometimes later on weekends. However, these spots for late night food in Madrid often stay open into the wee hours of the next morning!
Update Notice: This post was originally published on March 20, 2018 and was updated with new text and photos on May 25, 2021.
