One of the best parts about traveling to a different country, especially when it comes to a country in Europe, is trying the food. Trying different, new foods gives you insight into the culture and customs of the country in ways that sight-seeing will never show you. However, I think we can all agree on one thing: eating out, especially when traveling, is expensive.
When I traveled to Spain this past month, I wanted to make sure that I had the opportunity to try as many foods of the Spanish cuisine as possible without making a dent in the bank. Thankfully, I got to experience not only delicious places, but restaurants that are also super reasonably priced. The college student in me was happy to have found these places, and I know it’ll definitely help you when you find yourself in this country. Here’s a list of the best restaurants in Spain that are both inexpensive and delicious; I highly recommend them all!
1. Granier (Madrid, Spain)
Granier was the first place I visited once leaving the airport the day I got to Madrid, and it welcomed me with an aroma of sweets and freshly baked bread: everything I could ever want, basically. At this establishment, I was able to enjoy what they call a Napolitano, as well as freshly squeezed orange juice that cost me less than five euros. Totally got a bang for my buck!
2. La Bola (Madrid, Spain)
My first night in Madrid, I decided to visit La Bola, a small tavern with about six tables and a bar, for dinner. This place is known for their famous and award-winning Cocido Madrileño. This restaurant had amazing service and for the quality of the food, it was hard to believe, was super cheap. Additionally, if one was interested, dinner could be served at one of the tables they have inside the kitchen. How cool?! For dinner I enjoyed their Chuletitas de Cordero Lechal (Lamb Chops) and Patatas (Fries). Delicious!
3. Bariloche (Cullera, Valencia, Spain)
Debating on where to eat during my stay in Cullera, Spain, I came across Bariloche, a restaurant on the boardwalk right next to the beach. They have a grand menu which will leave you wondering if you should get the lamb, the steak, or the pizza; I decided to go with the Lamb Chops with fries and tempura fried vegetables. Among all the restaurants I visited, I definitely have to say this one was truly not costly and delicious, so if you find yourself in the area, definitely give it a try. And don’t leave without trying the Crema Catalana Ice Cream!
4. La Bodeguita (Consuegra, Valencia, Spain)
Out of all the best restaurants in Spain, La Bodeguita was my absolute favorite. If you’re in for a grand tasting experience of Castillian dishes, this is the place to go. Although quaint in size, this restaurant is grand in flavors, trust me. When I visited, they had “El Menu Degustación” (The Tasting Menu) which is basically a four course meal shared with another person. With this, I had the opportunity to taste different dishes that the restaurant had to offer rather than just one.
Among the items on the tasting menu was Manchego Cheese in olive oil with fried bread (heavenly), and Wild Boar with Boiled Potatoes. I can still taste these things today, they were that scrumptious! I totally understand why they put these items on the tasting menu.
And don’t even get me started on their Crema Catalana, otherwise known as the BEST. DESSERT. EVER. This was an amazing, unforgettable and surprisingly inexpensive tasting experience that I would recommend to everyone!
5. Sobrino de Botin (Madrid, Spain)
Something to cross off your bucket list! Sobrino de Botin is the oldest restaurant in the world (yes, it won the Guinness World Record for this!) and happens to have the most delicious suckling pig I have ever tasted. I mean, just look at the picture below and tell me you’re not drooling. You cannot leave Madrid without visiting, but make sure to make a reservation, because the place lives full!
6. La Mejor (Madrid, Spain)
All across Spain, you will find Churrerias that serve Churros and chocolate, among them La Mejor. Easily compared to the amount of McDonald’s found in the U.S., Churrerias line the narrow streets of Madrid. Can you tell Churros are pretty popular here? This is another spot to have breakfast that won’t break the bank and will have your Instagram followers fascinated! Don’t forget to order their delicious croissants in addition to their Churros and hot chocolate.
7. Las Mañanitas (Madrid, Spain)
Las Mañanitas is one of the few Mexican restaurants that I saw during my visit, but it was still cool to eat the cuisine of another country in a different country! Double the experience, right? The food was delightful, inexpensive, and was brought out relatively quick. I highly recommend the Yucatecos Nachos, Alambre de Ternera which come with a side of corn tortillas, to be eaten as tacos, and the Crepa de Cajeta Con helado de Vainilla y Nuez (Crepe with Dulce de Leche and Vanilla Ice Cream topped with nuts).
8. Museo del Jamon (Madrid, Spain)
El Museo del Jamon in Madrid is practically a landmark that must be visited; after all, Spain is known for its ham. At this location, I had the opportunity to try one of their traditional dishes, Tortilla Española, which was well worth it. Also, once again, I enjoyed a glass of fresh orange juice that one can find all throughout Spain (it is actually more common to find than bottled orange juice), and Croquetas de Jamon.
9. Crepes y Waffles (Madrid, Spain)
Visiting Crepes y Waffles was actually a pretty unique experience, as one can see the interior is very modern. Most restaurants in Spain are a bit dated, but this one looks like the ones found in the U.S. Also, guests can see the chefs and waiters preparing their food as they sit and wait because of the open concept the restaurant has. Aside from being incredibly affordable, Crepes y Waffles has something for everyone with their big menu. I decided on this yummy waffle topped with berries and ice cream, which I absolutely recommend.
10. Dehesa Santamaria (Madrid, Spain)
Dehesa Santamaria is another tavern in Madrid that has an array of flavored muffins among other amazing delicacies. It’s a great spot to stop by and have a snack after a long day of walking up and down the narrow streets of this busy city. Not to mention, the sweets here were not only super satisfying to my sweet tooth, but super nice to my wallet as well. I’ll be back here for sure!
There’s nothing I love more than traveling and finding cute, yummy, and affordable places to enjoy the lavish cuisine of each new country I’m visiting. Spain was an absolute pleasure to visit; it’s beautiful, the people are incredible, and the food? Let’s just say it’s out of this world! These are no doubt the best restaurants in Spain, if I do say so myself. If you’re looking to have an economic vacation this summer that still allows you to be your typical foodie self, Spain should totally be on the top of your list!