At What Time Do Restaurants Typically Close in Madrid?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, you may be wondering what time restaurants typically close. After all, dining out is a big part of the culture in Spain, and Madrid is no exception. Here’s what you need to know about restaurant hours in the Spanish capital.

General Restaurant Hours

In Madrid, most restaurants open for lunch around 1:30 p.m. and serve until 4:00 p. Dinner service usually starts at 8:30 p. and continues until midnight or later. However, keep in mind that these are general guidelines and some establishments may have different hours.

Tapas Bars and Cafes

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or just want to sample some local specialties, tapas bars and cafes are a great option. These establishments typically have more flexible hours than full-service restaurants, so you can often find them open outside of traditional meal times.

Tapas Bars

Many tapas bars are open from midday until late at night, so you can stop in for a snack or drink whenever you like. Some of the most popular tapas bars in Madrid include:

  • La Casa del Abuelo: This historic bar is known for its delicious prawns.
  • Casa Labra: Stop by Casa Labra for a taste of their famous cod croquettes.
  • Mercado de San Miguel: This bustling market has dozens of vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to gourmet chocolates.

Cafes

Madrid has no shortage of cozy cafes where you can relax with a cup of coffee or tea. Many cafes also serve light meals like sandwiches and pastries. Some popular cafes in Madrid include:

  • Café de Oriente: This elegant cafe has a prime location overlooking the Royal Palace.
  • Café Gijón: A favorite haunt of writers and intellectuals, Café Gijón has been serving customers since 1888.
  • El Jardín Secreto: Tucked away in a quiet courtyard, this charming cafe is the perfect spot for a romantic date or a solo writing session.

Late-Night Dining

If you’re a night owl or just want to experience Madrid’s nightlife, you’ll be happy to know that many restaurants stay open late. In fact, some of the city’s best dining can be found after midnight. Here are a few options for late-night dining in Madrid:

  • Casa Mono: This trendy restaurant serves up modern Spanish cuisine until 2:00 a.
  • Txabuzo: If you’re in the mood for Basque-style pintxos, head to Txabuzo, which stays open until 3:00 a.
  • Museo del Jamón: This beloved chain of ham shops also has several locations with full-service restaurants that stay open until the wee hours of the morning.

Closing Thoughts

In summary, restaurant hours in Madrid vary depending on the type of establishment and the time of day. Most full-service restaurants are open for lunch and dinner with some variation in hours.

Tapas bars and cafes are generally more flexible and can be found open throughout the day and into the night. And if you’re looking for late-night dining options, Madrid has plenty to offer. So whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a quick bite, you’re sure to find something delicious at any time of day in Madrid.