Los Cedros, Arturo Soria
Well worth the journey to the northern suburbs; delicious rustic-modern Spanish food in an unpretentious setting. You can’t go wrong with food this simple and well-cooked: order the artichokes with clams or Fried hake a la marinera. The meat section is worth a try too, such as the carrillera- meltingly slow-cooked beef in sherry. Understated, traditional cooking at it’s finest.
Allendesalazar 4, 28043 |  +34 91 4 515 2200

Casa Lucas, La Latina
La Latina is the best neighbourhood for local restaurants and this is one is its best. The atmosphere is lively and the menu features modern tapas and Mediterranean favourites.
30 Calle Cava Baja, 28005 | +34 91 365 0804

Zalacain Restaurant, Salamanca
Zalacain is known as one of the very best restaurants in Madrid. Some of the fabulous dishes include stew of scampi in cider sauce, duck in red wine, and lobster salad. If you can’t decide, you have the option of a sampler menu for a fixed price. Don’t leave without trying one of their desserts, such as the delicious Chocolate Volcano!
4 Alvarez de Baena, 28006 | +34 91 561 59 35

Taberna Bilbao, Plaza de la Paja
This is a split tapas bar and restaurant on the pretty Plaza de la Paja. It serves authentic Basque dishes; cod in all it’s forms is its specialty, try it a la vizcaína (onions and red peppers) or al pil pil (olive oil and garlic). On Fridays and Saturdays, go for the superb Alubiada (white bean stew feast).
8 Costanilla de San Andres, 28005 | +34 91 365 6125

Viridiana, Salamanca
Unique, intimate spot. Chef Abraham has been heading Viridiana for thirty years and still greets guests personally and enjoys experimenting with ingredients of the highest quality. Expect contemporary takes on traditional recipes, such as baby squid with curry served on a bed of lentils or roasted lamb served in puff pastry with fresh basil.
14 Calle Juan de Mena, 28014 | +34 91 523 4 78

Asiana, Chueca District
This little restaurant is very exclusive with only ten tables- so make sure you book ahead! Designed by internationally trained Jaime Renedo, the menu changes weekly with inspiration drawn from many global cuisines. A truly special culinary experience.
4 Travesia de San Mateo, 28004 | +34 91 310 0 965