WHERE TO TRY THE MOST AUTHENTIC PAELLA IN MADRID
Paella is Spain’s most recognizable dish, and by far one of the most popular among Spaniards. This rice dish is very versatile and can be filled with any number of tasty ingredients, like meat, seafood, and veggies. Every Spanish mother has their own recipe, as well as every restaurant, so no two paellas are the same. Here are the places that you should go to to get the most authentic, and best, paella in Madrid. It will be love at first bite!
Socarratt Valencian Food
The creation of two Valencian chefs, Socarratt Valencian Food is definitely an authority on authentic paella. Since the dish originates from Valencia, this restaurant prides itself on using techniques and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Many say this is one of the greatest places to try paella in Madrid because of their adherence to tradition. Socarratt is quite small, so be sure to call ahead for a table to ensure you don’t miss out.
Address: Calle de San Marcos, 2
Bar La Gloria
Bar La Gloria is named after the owner’s grandmother and the restaurant is inspired by her traditional home cooking. On the menu are a variety of contemporary and traditional Spanish dishes, but the Valencian paella is the star of the show. Paella is available on Sunday afternoons, so plan your week accordingly to get a taste! Locals love this eatery, so you know that it has to be good. So many tourist trap restaurants offer frozen paella that is then microwaved, and this couldn’t be farther from that. Stop by Bar La Gloria and discover the glory of their fresh, Sunday paella.
Address: Calle del Noviciado, 2
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La Barraca
La Barraca is a family-owned restaurant that opened its doors in 1935. It specializes in paella and Valencian cuisine. The menu is quite traditional and features some of the best dishes in Spanish cuisine. There are 16 paella and rice dishes, each of which is meant to be shared between two or more people. The ingredients are fresh, the food is exquisite, and the decor is cozy and inviting. If you’re looking for traditional paella and Spanish cuisine in the Spanish capital, this is it.
Address: Calle Reina, 9
Restaurante Casa de Valencia
Last but not least on the list is Restaurante Casa de Valencia. Consistently reviewed as having the best paella in Madrid, this restaurant is the real deal when it comes to rice. The tradition is reflected in the decor, much of which dates back to the restaurant’s inception in 1975. There are numerous rice and paella dishes on the menu, so the only problem you’ll have is trying to select just one!
Address: Paseo del Pintor Rosales, 58
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