This guide to the best restaurants in Malsaña will help you find the café, restaurant, bar, or nightclub that is perfect for you. Malasaña is known to be the trendiest neighborhood in Madrid and is filled with the best restaurants and some of the best nightlife in the city.
This article may contain affiliate links through associate programs. If you purchase an item using one of my links I will receive a small commission, with no extra cost to you.
Best Cafés in Malasaña
La Doña
La Doña is a true staple in Malasaña. They serve incredible pastries and coffee while also having a consistent and fast WIFI connection. Any baked goods that you could possibly desire can be found here. Cakes, croissants, cookies, muffins, and even donuts are made at La Doña and all are mouthwateringly delicious!
Hanso Café
Hanso Café has become popular due to its flavored coffee including a delicious red velvet latte.
But even more importantly, ICED COFFEE. They have traditional cold brew as well as flavored cold brew options. As many Americans have come to discover when in Spain, good iced coffee is tough to come by. So if that is what you are craving, skip Starbucks and head to HANSO Café
La Bicicleta
La Bicicleta is all about the aesthetic. It is one of the cutest cafés that you will come by. It is also on the more expensive side.
The coffee is fresh, delicious, and always insta worthy. La Bicicleta is the perfect spot to meet a friend and catch up over a café con leche.
Tomá
Tomá café specializes in globally sourced and fair trade coffee. If you are looking to try or buy coffee from places like Rwanda or Colombia, this is your place. You can never go wrong with Tomá café.
Lolina
Lolina is an adorable retro-inspired café. It is styled with furniture and art from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
Not only is it a cute café, but they also serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. It really is a very versatile space.
Cafe de la Luz
Cafe de la luz is my favorite café in the entire city. It is the best place to set up, get comfy, and get some work done.
The decor is eclectic and so cozy. Not only is it comfortable, but it also has a great selection of food, drinks, and sweets.
You can often find me here with a café bombón in one hand and a glass of cava in the other. Perfection.
Levadura Madre
Levadura Madre is a bakery and café with multiple locations spread throughout Madrid.
Their pastries are incredible, especially the spinach empanada. This is a wonderful place for a small snack and a café con leche.
Mür Café
Mür Café is an adorable café with a great indoor space as well as a great terraza. Here you can grab a small bite, including pastries, toast, and of course coffee. If you are near Plaza de España be sure to check it out!
Best Brunch Restaurants in Malasaña
If you are in the mood for brunch, then this is the barrio for you. You can find great brunch restaurants in Malasaña on every single corner.
Roll Madrid
Roll Madrid serves a very hearty, American-style brunch. My favorite dish is their chicken and waffles topped with a poached egg.
Roll also provides a taste of home for me and my fellow Michiganders, as they always have several Founders’ beers on tap.
J&J Books and Coffee
J & J Books and Coffee is my favorite place to go for bagels. It was created by Ex-pats who have, over the years, cultivated a loyal following by native English speakers residing in Madrid.
In addition to bagels and mimosas, it has an impressive selection of English books.
Carmencita
Carmencita’s is a great brunch spot. The highlight for me is the eggs benedict sampler. This way you don’t have to make up your mind. You can try all of their different types of eggs benedict!
They also serve huevos rancheros and other American brunch staples.
Cafe Federal
Café federal is my personal favorite out of this list of brunch restaurants in Malasaña.
Their food is always prepared to the highest quality, and it is so delicious.
While the previous three spots are mostly American hang-outs, here at Cafe federal you will find yourself surrounded by a wide variety of people.
Amargo Place to Be
Amargo place to be is a vibrant space, filled with unique touches and beautiful decor.
The restaurant pulls inspiration from all over the world to make its menu. You can find things like Acai bowls, breakfast burritos, eggs, pancakes, toasts, and a variety of juices.
This is a delicious place to spend your morning.
Zenith
My first experience with Zenith was actually in Porto, Portugal and I was instantly a fan. When I found out they were opening a location in Madrid I was thrilled. Their Madrid location is just as good as in Portugal.
Zenith specialized in brunch and serves brunch all day, every day. While everything on the menu is fantastic, their french toast options are a must!
Ojalá
Ojalá is a beach-themed restaurant and bar where you can enjoy your meal on the sand.
They have constructed their own indoor beach which makes for a unique dining experience.
If you would like to be guaranteed a spot on the sand be sure to make a reservation!
Best Lunch Restaurants in Malasaña
El Perro y la Galleta
El Perro y la Galleta offers a wide range of cuisines. They serve Chinese and Italian-inspired dishes as well as classic Spanish cuisine.
They execute all of the dishes very well, and the meal will leave you wanting to return!
Ochenta Grados
Ochenta Grados offers a really great menú del día for just 13.50 euros. For this price you get, a drink, a selection of one cold dish and two hot dishes as well as a dessert.
Ochenta Grados serves typical Spanish cuisine like croquettas, salmorejo, empanadillas, and much more. This is the perfect lunch to fill you up on a budget!
Mercado de San Ildephonso
If you want to find the best food in Madrid then you definitely need to visit one of the many food markets in the city.
Malasaña’s best market is Mercado de San Ildefonso. Within the market, you can find arepas, Korean cuisine, and some of the best paella in the neighborhood.
This is a great place to visit, especially if everyone you are with is craving something different!
Sidería La Cuenca
Sidería La Cuenca brings all the Asturian flavors to Madrid. They serve fresh and authentic Sidra (Asturian natural hard cider) and classic Asturian dishes.
They also offer a fantastic menu del dia of 3 dishes, dessert, a drink and bread all for 11.50 euro.
Best Dinner Restaurants in Malasaña
NAP Malasaña
NAP Malasaña is my favorite pizza place in the city.
They have created the perfect Italian-style Pizza. The crust is flavorful and they have curated a perfect combination of toppings to make every bite incredible.
La Gringa
If you are looking for a heaping plate of Nachos, La Gringa is the spot.
Their Nachos are everything a Nacho should be, cheesy, saucy, and bursting with flavor!
They also have great burritos, quesadillas, and everything TexMex.
La Musa
La Musa is a fusion restaurant where the chefs combine typical Spanish tapas with other bold flavors. The restaurant itself is eclectic and colorful. Both the atmosphere and food are vibrant. La Musa offers a unique take on traditional Spanish cuisine.
Superchulo
Superchulo focuses on vegan and vegetarian options. Everything on their menu falls into either the vegan or vegetarian category.
Their food, especially their pizza, is really incredible. They have mastered the texture of vegan cheese, to where I could barely tell the difference.
If you are looking for a trendy restaurant that is friendly to dietary restrictions, this is definitely your spot!
La Mezza
La Mezza specializes in Lebanese Cuisine. Tabouleh, Shwarma, Hummus, and all the wonderful things that make up Lebanese cuisine can be found at La Mezza. I was very impressed with their execution and the rich flavors of the food!
Best Bars in Malasaña
Ojalá
Ojalá‘s beach bar aesthetic is perfectly executed down to the indoor beach. They have themed and delicious drinks.
They also have a full menu, however, I wasn’t wowed by their food. So I would recommend skipping the food and moving right to drinks if you choose to stop at Ojalá.
Pez Tortilla
Pez Tortilla is a small bar located on Calle del Pez in Malasaña. They always have locally brewed craft beer on tap. Not only do they serve great beer, but they also make the best tortilla in the city.
Typically they have a tortilla stuffed with ham, truffles, and brie. Let me tell you, it is to die for.
If you are going to eat anything in Madrid let it be this!
Bar Restaurante Petisqueira
If you are seriously on a budget but still want to eat, check out Restaurante Petisqueira. This is one of the few bars left in Madrid city center that gives complimentary tapas with a drink.
For just the price of a beer, you can get tortilla, rice, olives, and more.
This is one of the best deals in Malasaña.
Freeway
If you are looking for a lively place to spend your evening, be sure to check out Freeway. Freeway is an Irish- pub-styled bar, with a bit of a dive-bar feel.
This is a great place to grab a few beers before a night out.
MACERA Taller Bar
MACERA Taller Bar is a good place if you are looking for a fancier cocktail.
Although the drinks are fancy, the atmosphere is casual but still fun.
If you do decide to visit MACERA Taller Bar be sure to bring lipstick so you can add your kiss to the wall.
Picnic
Picnic is a comedy club located in Malasaña. They also host open mic nights. It has a decor that in some spaces feels as if it belongs on the set of Friends.
This spot has great people, good drinks, and live entertainment, what more could you ask for?
1862 Dry Bar
1862 Dry Bar is consistently accredited with the best cocktails in Madrid. When you think of the word classic, this bar is exactly that. From the interior design to the cocktails, It is truly classic. They focus on traditional cocktails such as the Gin fizz, mojito, and gimlets.
Amargo Place to Be
Amargo Place to be is decorated so well. It gives off a very tropical feeling, The live plants make it almost feel jungle-esque. In addition to the cute decor, they have a wide range of cocktails.
Their cocktails have bases of Rum, Gin, Vodka, Tequila, or Whiskey. They have something for everyone!
Fabrica Maravillas
Fabrica Maravillas is the go-to spot for Craft beer in Malasaña.
This Microbrewery has been around since 2012. At their taproom, you can taste all of their delicious creations which are made in-house.
El Jardín Secreto
Everything about El Jardín Secreto feels fantastical. It feels as if you walked into the world of Alice in Wonderland. Their drinks also match the atmosphere, fun, colorful and unexpected. What a fun place to go on a night out!
Best Rooftop Bars in Malasaña
Parq Restaurante
Parq Restaurante is a cute rooftop in Malasaña complete with pergolas, twinkle lights, and a view of Madrid. This is a perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink on a beautiful night.
Mercado de San Ildefonso
Mercado de San Ildefonso is a market full of the city’s best street food.
If you are looking for a beautiful terrace to enjoy that food, they have one right in the market.
While this is not a rooftop, it is a beautiful outdoor terrace and a great place to enjoy the weather and your food simultaneously.
Azotea Forus Barceló
Azotea Forus Barceló is located on the border between Malasaña and Chueca. Here you can enjoy Italian cuisine, excellent cocktails, and a picturesque view of Madrid.
GYMAGE
Gymage is on the roof of a gym and spa in Malasaña. It is located just off the Plaza de Santa María Soledad Torres Acosta.
It is a fun atmosphere often with a live DJ, colorful lights, and a good view. This is my favorite place to celebrate a special occasion.
Sky Bar 360º
Of this list, Sky Bar 360º hands down has the best views of Madrid. Located in the RIU hotel you can see the entirety of Madrid, including a close view of the Royal Palace, Plaza de España, and the historic city center.
Sky Bar hosts events nightly, including DJs, Parties, and more. If you are looking for one of the best views of Madrid, this is the spot for you.
Best Nightclubs in Malasaña
Teatro Barceló
Teatro Barceló is one of the most famous Nightclubs in Madrid. It has been a staple of Madrid Nightlife since the 1980s and is even featured in the hit Netflix show ELITÉ.
Teatro Barceló is near the Tribunal metro station which lies on the border of the neighborhoods, Malasaña and Chueca. Not only are they always playing the best music, but also host many themed nights.
Tupperware
Tupperware is a much smaller nightclub that feels very retro. They play mostly rock and roll, 70’s, and 80’s pop music.
It is a really unique vibe special to this bar particularly. Tupperware is a great place to switch it up.
Space Monkey
Space Monkey is very popular with Erasmus students for their cheap drinks (4euros) and variety of activities. On the weekends there are often two different DJs playing different genres of music in two different rooms. They also have beer pong nights as well as themed parties.
Best Dessert in Malasaña
Töto
Töto is an Ice cream and coffee shop with several locations in Madrid.
What makes them special? They use locally sourced ingredients, fresh fruits, natural flavors, and just great ice cream.
Their flavors change frequently as they make everything in small batches.
La Pecera
La Pecera specializes in making Taiyaki which are Japanese fish-shaped pastries filled with soft-serve ice cream.
The pastry feels a bit softer and has a more unique flavor than a traditional ice cream cone, plus it is really cute!
Llaollao
Llaollao is a build-your-own frozen yogurt shop. You typically serve yourself and can pick from a variety of flavors and a variety of toppings.
At Llaollao you can construct the frozen yogurt of your dreams!
Their Fuencarral location is located in the heart of Malasaña.
Where to stay in Malasaña
Generator Hostel has a stunning rooftop terrace that offers some of the best views of Madrid. Located just off Gran Vía, it is a very centralized location. They also have an in-house restaurant, bar, and cafe. Their facilities are top-notch in terms of social events, location, cleanliness, and comfort.
Celebrations in Malasaña
Dos de Mayo
Fiestas de Dos de Mayo is a city holiday that is celebrated every year to commemorate the uprising of the community of Madrid over the French occupation in 1808.
Due to its holiday status, people all over the city have a day off work to celebrate. The heart of the celebration is the Plaza Dos de Mayo in Malasaña. However, the people and the festivities spill out into the bars, restaurants, and streets of the neighborhood.
This is a popular festival, often with activities, live music, and libations.
As indicated by the name, this holiday is celebrated on May 2nd.
Service in Restaurants
Many Americans are quick to point out the “poor service” when they go to a restaurant in Spain. The Food Service industry in Spain is noticeably slower than it is in America. This is simply due to their culture.
Spaniards enjoy long meals with rich conversation and good company. In Spain, it’s rude for the servers to be constantly checking in and interrupting the conversation.
If you need your server, you will have to wave them down. When it is time to pay the bill, be sure to ask since it’s also rude to assume in Spanish culture.
Mealtimes in Spain:
Mealtimes are very different in Spain than they are in America. Most restaurants do not offer dinner service until after 8 pm.
Many restaurants close midday to observe siesta time. That being said, make sure to check the restaurant’s hours prior to showing up and expecting to eat.
Flexibility is key when going out to eat in Spain.
Typical Mealtimes in Spain:
Breakfast: 7:00 am – 9:00 am (Brunch goes later)
Mid Morning Snack: 10:30am – 12:00am
Lunch: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm (This is also the time you can often find Menu Del Dia’s )
Afternoon snack : 5:00 pm – 7:00pm
Tapas: 7:00pm – 9:00 pm
Dinner: 9:30- 11:00 pm (Most restaurants do not open for dinner service until 8:00 pm at the earliest)
Which Barrio Next?
La Latina
If you find yourself hungry near Plaza Mayor or in the Barrio of La Latina, be sure to check out my guide to La Latina.
Just like this guide for the best restaurants in Malasaña, the guide for La Latina outlines the best cafés, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and festivals in the neighborhood.
Lavapiés
Are you visiting El Rastro on a Sunday and your stomach is growling?
Be sure to open up my guide to the best cafés, restaurants, and bars in Lavapiés.
One Comment