Spain is a country where food transcends mere sustenance; it is an experience, a ritual, and a deeply embedded part of the nation’s cultural identity. From the rich aromas wafting through traditional kitchens to the avant-garde creativity of modern gastronomy, Spain’s culinary landscape is nothing short of extraordinary.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure or as part of a luxury tour in Spain, each bite becomes part of the journey.
1. Disfrutar – Madrid
Few places capture the spirit of modern Spanish gastronomy like Disfrutar. With a name that literally means "to enjoy," this Michelin-starred restaurant in Madrid lives up to its promise. Helmed by three chefs who honed their skills at the legendary El Bulli, Disfrutar is where art meets science on a plate. The tasting menu is an unforgettable journey through playful, innovative dishes that deconstruct and reimagine traditional Spanish flavors.
Imagine this: A delicate olive explosion in your mouth, followed by a whimsical “multi-spherical pesto” that defies expectations. Dining at Disfrutar is a sensory experience—each bite, texture, and aroma comes together in perfect harmony.
Must-try dish: The deconstructed gazpacho—a reimagining of Spain’s beloved cold soup that will challenge your perception of this classic dish.
2. Twin Chefs – Barcelona
Barcelona’s food scene is known for its fusion of Catalan tradition and cutting-edge culinary techniques, and Twin Chefs exemplifies this beautifully. The brothers' roots in the region are reflected in every dish, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen.
Dining here feels like a celebration of life’s simple pleasures—fresh seafood, perfectly cooked meats, and vegetables that are allowed to shine. The menu is seasonal, changing with the rhythm of the land and sea. Picture yourself indulging in a dish of charred octopus served with a smoky paprika aioli or savoring a melt-in-your-mouth lamb shoulder that’s been slow-cooked for hours.
Must-try dish: The seasonal seafood stew, brimming with the freshest catch of the day, all in a rich, deeply flavored broth.
3. Asador Etxebarri – Basque Country
Located in the heart of the Basque Country, Asador Etxebarri is a true pilgrimage for lovers of grilled food. At this rustic yet world-renowned restaurant, chef Victor Arguinzoniz transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, all through the primal art of fire. The menu at Etxebarri is an ode to smoke and char, where each dish reveals a new layer of complexity and depth.
Imagine perfectly grilled prawns, their briny sweetness complemented by the subtle smokiness of the wood-fired grill, or a perfectly seared steak with a crust that gives way to tender, juicy meat. The dining room, set against a backdrop of the lush Basque hills, only adds to the experience, making every meal feel like a retreat into the essence of Basque tradition.
Must-try dish: Grilled Palamós prawns—a seemingly simple dish that showcases the art of perfect grilling, elevating the natural flavor of the prawns with just the right amount of smoke.
4. Sobrino de Botín – Madrid
Step into Sobrino de Botín, and you’re stepping into history. Established in 1725, this is the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Yet it’s not just the history that draws people here—it’s the food. Botín’s signature dish, the roasted suckling pig, has been perfected over centuries, cooked in wood-fired ovens that date back to the restaurant’s early days.
Dining at Sobrino de Botín feels like being part of a centuries-old tradition. The wood-paneled dining room is cozy and filled with the scent of roasting meats, while the hustle and bustle of Madrid’s La Latina neighborhood hums just outside. The crackling skin of the roasted pig gives way to tender, juicy meat beneath, a dish that has remained unchanged in its perfection.
Must-try dish: Cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig)—the dish that has been served here for centuries, prepared in the same wood-fired ovens since the restaurant’s opening.
5. Posada de la Villa – Madrid
Tucked away in Madrid’s La Latina district, Posada de la Villa is where history meets traditional Castilian cooking. This former 17th-century inn has been lovingly restored, offering a dining experience that feels both rustic and luxurious. Here, the focus is on classic Madrid dishes, prepared with care and attention to tradition. The restaurant is famed for its lamb, slow-roasted in a wood oven until it reaches the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.
As you sit at your table, surrounded by exposed brick walls and candlelight, it’s easy to imagine yourself in another time. The rich, savory aroma of roasting meats fills the air, and each dish arrives at your table with the weight of tradition behind it.
Must-try dish: The oven-roasted lamb, tender and succulent, served with a side of roasted potatoes that have absorbed all the flavors from the oven.
For those interested in heritage experiences alongside culinary adventures, we also offer journeys tailored to uncover Spain’s Sephardic legacy—ask us about a Jewish tour in Spain
