The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s finest collections of European art, and you’re bound to want to visit it during your trip to Madrid. There are so many highlights and hidden gems inside! You’re sure to love seeing the masterpieces on display. But gallery wandering can be tiring, and eventually, you’ll need a bite to eat nearby. Luckily, this is your guide to some great restaurants near Prado Museum.
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Estado Puro: for imaginative tapas
Known for its first-class, inventive tapas, Estado Puro is one of the most outstanding restaurants near Prado Museum. The kitchen is overseen by celebrity chef Paco Roncero, who more than knows his onions. Roncero learned his trade from Ferran Adrià i Acosta, chef-patron of the world-renowned El Bulli.
Estado Puro’s croquetas, with jamon, wild mushrooms, or bull’s tail, are a specialty of the house; order the assortment for two of each. There’s cured beef from Leon with almonds, and a sumptuous Spanish cheeseboard. But hold some space for dessert. Who could resist caramelized pineapple with rum and coconut ice cream? Or Sicilian mandarin sorbet with Cava?
Roncero’s other Madrid restaurant has two Michelin stars. At Estado Puro, you can get a slice of his highly-regarded cuisine at a much more affordable price.
Less than a five-minute walk from Prado Museum, Estado Puro is very popular, so it’s wise to book ahead. The noon to midnight, seven days a week opening hours are a boon for fitting a visit around an arty excursion. But be aware that you’ll pay higher prices at the outside tables.
It’s traditional to go from bar to bar sampling tapas as you go, but you’ll want to linger at Estado Puro.
El Fogón Verde: for socially-conscious plant-based eating
El Fogón Verde lives by its environmental, socially-conscious values. It’s a co-operative where workers’ roles rotate. It supports social enterprises and responsible food producers which provide good working conditions. And it specializes in seasonal, local food with minimal environmental impact.
But if this rustic-chic diner sounds a bit too good to be true, it gets better. They also provide delicious vegetarian fare. The seasonal cuisine makes for a varying menu, and it’s all thoughtfully paired and delicious.
The autumn offering might include cinnamon-spiced pumpkin with honey and lemon. Summer might welcome pasta with aubergine and heritage tomatoes or green bean meatballs. There’s a wide range of organic wines and craft beers too.
El Fogón Verde – the green stove – prides itself on “filling stomachs and conscience in equal parts”. For a delicious meal with a low carbon impact, take a 5-minute stroll to what is arguably the most responsible, environmentally friendly of restaurants near Prado Museum.
Inclán Brutal Bar: for a lively atmosphere
Don’t let the name mislead you; there’s nothing savage about Inclán Brutal Bar (and its name actually translates as ‘terrific bar’ in English). Creativity and cocktails reign supreme in this stylish, lively drinking spot with food.
Inclán Brutal Bar’s Spanish and Mediterranean fusion menu specializes in twists on classic dishes. Tortilla comes with black truffle, and scallops come with kimchi and lime. Bilbao burrata arrives accompanied by a basil emulsion and pickled strawberries.
The cocktails are no less inventive. The house Margarita mixes mango puree and pineapple with curry syrup. Goya’s namesake cocktail includes Campari, kaffir lime cordial, and elderflower tonic.
Make the most of your late nights in Madrid with a trip to this buzzy spot, open until 01:00 on Wednesdays and Sundays, and 02:00 other days. Couple Inclán Brutal Bar with a trip to the latest temporary exhibition at the Prado Museum for a day of masterful art and pioneering cuisine. It’s more than worth the 15-minute walk along Calle de Cervantes from the Prado.
Café Prado: the closest eatery possible
The Café Prado is the perfect place to combine with the Skip The Line & Guided Tour at Prado Museum. After an intense but enthralling round of the Prado’s masterpieces, your legs will thank you for a rest and snack at this very convenient cafe.
On the ground floor of the museum, situated next to a courtyard, the Café Prado offers light lunches and snacks. Take breakfast, lunch, or early dinner here; just remember that the cafe closes 30 minutes before the museum.
For a more substantial meal, choose the Prado’s full-service restaurant next door. A la carte or the well-priced menú del día, plus a glass or two of light wine, make for a longer break.
Rest your legs and your art-filled mind here; a snack or meal will refuel your enthusiasm for seeing the sights of Madrid.
La Rotonda Restaurant: fine dining in a grand setting
One of the finest restaurants near Prado Museum, La Rotonda offers gourmet cuisine in splendid surroundings. Here you’ll dine underneath a magnificent stained-glass cupola. And as befits the magnificent surroundings, the service is first-rate.
The mainly Spanish cuisine runs from upscale sandwiches to full plates. The menu is meat and fish-heavy with plenty of choice. Standouts include scallops with black rice, snow peas, and kimchi mayonnaise. Or why not try smoked sardines with creamy cashews and strawberries? To round off, the desserts mix international classics with Spanish specialties.
For those who want to skip the line when visiting Madrid’s top three art collections, this is the perfect spot for an elegant dining experience.
