Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a cosmopolitan city that has a lot to offer to tourists and locals alike. From its rich history and culture to its lively nightlife and delicious cuisine, Madrid has something for everyone.
However, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may wonder if Madrid is a suitable destination for you. In this article, we will explore whether Madrid is vegetarian-friendly or not.
Vegetarianism in Spain
Before we delve into the specifics of Madrid’s vegetarian scene, let’s take a look at vegetarianism in Spain as a whole. While Spain is known for its meat-heavy dishes such as paella and jamón ibérico, there has been an increase in the number of vegetarians and vegans in recent years.
According to a survey conducted by Lantern, 7% of Spaniards identify as vegetarians and 2% as vegans. This may not seem like a lot compared to other countries such as India or Israel where vegetarianism is more prevalent, but it shows that the demand for vegetarian options is growing in Spain.
Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Madrid
Now let’s talk about Madrid specifically. While it may not be as easy to find vegetarian options as it is in some other cities like Berlin or London, there are still plenty of restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans.
One popular restaurant chain that has multiple locations throughout Madrid is VIPS Smart. They have an extensive menu with clearly marked vegetarian and vegan options ranging from salads to burgers to pasta dishes.
Another option is La Hummuseria which specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on hummus. They have several vegetarian and vegan options including falafel wraps and salads.
If you’re looking for something more upscale, there’s Punto MX which offers contemporary Mexican cuisine with several vegetarian options such as mushroom tacos and grilled cactus with avocado and tomato salsa.
Markets and Grocery Stores
If you prefer to cook your own meals, there are several markets and grocery stores in Madrid that offer a wide variety of vegetarian products. Mercado de San Miguel is a popular indoor market where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables as well as vegetarian tapas like tortilla española (Spanish omelet) and patatas bravas (spicy potatoes). You can also find a variety of vegetarian ingredients at organic Supermarkets like Ecocentro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Madrid may not be the most vegetarian-friendly city in the world, there are still plenty of options available for vegetarians and vegans. From restaurants that cater specifically to vegetarians to markets that offer fresh produce, Madrid has something for everyone. So if you’re a vegetarian or vegan planning a trip to Madrid, rest assured that you will be able to find delicious food options that suit your dietary needs.