What Time Do They Eat Dinner in Madrid?

By Michael Ferguson

Do you find yourself wondering what time dinner is served in Madrid? As with many aspects of Spanish culture, meal times in Madrid are dictated by tradition and offer a unique experience for travelers. So, let’s dive into the world of Spanish cuisine and discover when the locals eat dinner.

Meal Times in Spain

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that meal times in Spain are quite different from those in other countries. Breakfast is typically light, consisting of coffee or hot chocolate and a pastry or toast with jam.

Lunch is the main meal of the day and usually takes place between 2 pm and 4 pm. Dinner, on the other hand, is a much later affair than what you might be used to.

Dinner Time in Madrid

In Madrid, dinner is served quite late compared to other cities around the world. Most restaurants will open for dinner service at around 8:30 pm or 9:00 pm. This may seem like an odd time to eat your evening meal, but it’s actually perfect for Spanish culture.

The Siesta Culture

The reason for this late dinner time lies in Spain’s siesta culture. In the afternoon, many businesses and shops close down so that people can rest during the hottest part of the day. This break typically lasts from around 2 pm until 5 pm or even later during summer months.

As a result, Spaniards tend to stay up much later than people from other countries. They use this time after their evening meal to socialize with friends and family or indulge in leisure activities such as watching TV or going out for drinks.

What About Tourists?

If you’re a tourist visiting Madrid, you may find yourself struggling with the late dinner time at first. However, don’t worry – there are plenty of options available if you don’t want to wait until 9 pm for your evening meal.

Many restaurants cater to tourists and offer earlier dinner service. You can also find plenty of cafes and bars that serve light bites such as tapas or sandwiches if you’re feeling peckish before dinner time.

The Bottom Line

Overall, dinner time in Madrid is a unique experience that reflects the city’s vibrant culture. While it may take some getting used to, it’s worth embracing the local customs if you want to fully immerse yourself in Spanish life.

So, whether you’re a tourist or a local, rest assured that there will always be a delicious meal waiting for you in Madrid – no matter what time you decide to eat!