5 CHEAP Places to Eat in Madrid- The Adventuring Millennial

Alright budget travelers, let’s go to Spain!

Most Western European countries are expensive to visit. But I was surprised by Madrid’s reasonable prices. Sure, this city can still get pricey. But it also has its fair share of affordable activities.

And let’s be real, one of my favorite activities is eating.

So today I’m going to share some of my favorite cheap places to eat in Madrid.

Café de la Luz

If you ate here every morning of your Madrid trip, I wouldn’t judge.

This cozy cafe in the Malasaña neighborhood is the perfect spot to start your day. Café de la Luz open at 10 (so you can enjoy those late Spanish nights).

When you settle into a comfy spot, order the traditional breakfast. Ok, you could order something else if you want, but why? Soon, you will enjoy a warm cup of cafe con leche, a refreshing glass of zumo de naranja, and a crispy pan con tomate. This ciabatta toast is slathered with a tomato, olive oil, and sea salt spread. I know, it seems strange to eat tomatoes at breakfast. But trust me, the Spaniards know what they are doing.

And on top of that, this is an affordable breakfast. My husband and I both ordered this meal. And our total was less than € 10.00.

Mercado de San Antón

Head to the Chueca neighborhood to visit this indoor food market.

The first floor of the Mercado de San Antón feels more like an upscale organic grocery store (Whole Foods vibes, anyone?) But, make your way to the second floor for a tapas feast.

The second floor is filled with food stalls and bars. Here you can try a variety of cuisines including Greek, Japanese, and, of course, Spanish. Make your way around the stalls and order a few tapas along the way. And don’t forget to stop for some cerveza or sangria, too.

The food and drinks on this floor were very budget-friendly. And this is a great place to start your night or escape the rain (but if the weather is nice, the third floor offers a rooftop terrace).

Mercado de San Miguel

While we are talking about food markets, we need to discuss Mercado de San Miguel.

Near Plaza Mayor, you will find this lively food hall. It is packed with tapas stalls and bars. Eat your way around the market. You can enjoy some delicious croquetas, paella, olives, and sangria.

Everything is relatively cheap, so try a few different tapas. There is also a nice window ledge around most of the market, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot to eat with a view.

La Mallorquina

This specialty dessert shop has served Madrid since 1894.

Inside La Mallorquina, you will find a variety of pastries, sweets, and chocolates. I tried a small chocolate and a macron (I preferred the chocolate), but they are also known for their napolitanas (buns filled with chocolate or custard).

This shop is located near La Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s main squares. And most of their treats are really cheap! So its totally fine to enjoy more than one.

Chocolatería San Ginés

When in Madrid, eat churros. Lots and lots of churros.

And you can’t have these churros without a cup of thick, melted chocolate.

You can find churros and chocolate all over the city. But you need to check out Chocolatería San Ginés at least once. They’ve served the delicious treat since 1894.

Don’t let the line scare you. They have a great system. Wait your turn, order at the counter, and find a seat. Once you get a spot, hand your receipt to a waiter. Soon you will be enjoying Madrid’s best (and most famous) dessert.

And yes, this treat is also dang affordable. For less than €4 you can enjoy a full plate of churros and chocolate. I love this city.