With more than 350 acres of green space, Retiro Park is Madrid’s crown jewel and the ideal place to spend a sunny day. Stroll along the grand avenues, check out the street performers and musicians, then grab a spot of grass to take a break or a nice siesta. Then, when hunger calls, head to one of these incredible restaurants near Retiro Park to eat like a local!
A visit to Retiro is an essential part of getting to know Madrid. Sure, it’s popular, but for good reason. From the iconic lake and Crystal Palace to the hidden corners few get to know, you could spend several hours wandering and relaxing in this perfect park.
In doing so, though, you’ll almost certainly work up an appetite. Use this guide to help you discover the best restaurants near Retiro Park so you can get back to exploring ASAP!
The Classics
Restaurante Castelados
Top of our list for where to eat near Retiro Park is Castelados. Their menu features seasonal Spanish dishes done right – think callos, (tripe), fresh fish, sirloin steak, rice dishes, and more. This is a fantastic place to tuck into regional dishes like salmorejo, braised oxtail, or merluza a la bilbaína (a Basque dish made of hake with garlic, red pepper, and vinegar sauce). The menu is extensive, which makes it perfect for groups. And did we mention that Castelados also has a fantastic wine menu?!
Harina
Need a pick-me-up after your day at the park? Harina is the place to be.
Here, you can choose from a variety of fresh, organic bread and pastries, as well as Mediterranean-inspired meals such as olive and tomato salads and even pizzas. Top off your meal with a tasty treat, add a coffee or tea, and head out to enjoy sunny Madrid.
El Perro y la Galleta
Vintage-style El Perro y la Galleta is the perfect place to enjoy food and drinks with friends before a day out at Retiro. This stylish bistro offers traditional Spanish dishes like croquettes, Spanish tortilla, and of course, jamón. Try their mushroom Parmesan risotto or mouth-watering veggie tartare for a surprising twist on the classics.
As a bonus, this is the perfect restaurant near Retiro Park if you’re traveling with your four-legged friend in tow. Dogs are welcome here!
Fresh & Healthy Options
Magasand
“Incredible sandwiches, impossible magazines” is Magasand’s motto, and they live up to every word.
This fun cafe has delicious food, cool magazines to flip through while you wait, and relaxed vibes. From chicken curry sandwiches and salmon bagels to quinoa beet salads, Magasand (Calle Columela, 4) has it all.
They even make lunch and breakfast packs to go if you want to eat your meal at the park! Throw in some of Madrid’s gorgeous weather and you’ve got the recipe to a perfect afternoon out at Retiro.
Arugula
Arugula (Calle de Castelló, 3) is arguably the best salad place in town – and for good reason. Located on the north side of Retiro, this bistro creates salads made to order as well as soups and sandwiches.
There are endless ingredients to choose from to tailor your perfect salad. They also offer an affordable lunch option that includes a salad, a soup, and a drink. You can get your lunch to go and enjoy it at Retiro.
Bumpgreen
This trendy restaurant near Retiro Park focuses on serving fresh, seasonal dishes that are not only delicious but healthy as well. Menu options are mostly plant-based with a few options for omnivores, and there are plenty of choices for those avoiding gluten, dairy, or sugar.
Choose from classic breakfast options like porridge with berries and chia seeds or their classic American brunch. If you’re craving something a little heartier, then try out their smoked salmon or artisan burger topped with garlic-infused honey and diced pepper.
Unique Finds
Goiko
Talk to any local about burgers, and every single person will mention Goiko. In recent years, this spot has become an obsession for burger lovers. Since their hamburgers are made with 100 percent Galician beef, it’s easy to see why!
With toppings such as caramelized onions, goat cheese, bacon, or guacamole, these are no ordinary diner burgers. Order takeout and enjoy your meal in beautiful Retiro instead of waiting for a table at this popular restaurant. The closest location to Retiro Park is on Calle de Núñez de Balboa, 12.
Mestizo
Had your fill of Spanish tapas and craving something with a little more of a kick? Head up to Mestizo (Calle de José Ortega y Gasset, 83), a beloved local restaurant with food from various regions of Mexico.
Travel through the diverse cuisine of Mexico by ordering their DF tamales filled with chicken mole, fresh cactus salad, or more classic options like nachos, ceviche, or chile rellenos. No matter what you end up ordering, be prepared to leave happy, full, and ready for the rest of your day exploring the city.
Taberna Pedraza
Located right outside the eastern entrance of Retiro, Taberna Pedraza is a special place to discover the beautiful simplicity of Spanish cuisine.
Taberna Pedraza is owned by a Spanish couple who is committed to using locally-sourced products to serve quality, traditional Spanish food. Their menu changes monthly, but the one item that never changes is their tortilla. It is absolutely delicious and always worth the trip.
Eating Near Retiro Park FAQs
Absolutely! Retiro Park is well worth a visit, especially if you want to enjoy a sunny day in Madrid. Get some food to go from a nearby restaurant or pick up supplies from a nearby market like Mercado de la Paz, and settle in for a perfect picnic.
The closest fresh food markets to Retiro Park are Mercado de la Paz, Mercado de Ibiza, and Mercado de Antón Martín.
Update Notice: This post was updated on September 5, 2023.