After living in Madrid for six months, I finally have a good grasp of the dining costs here. Since many newcomers keep asking about meal expenses, I’ve compiled my experience to help you out.
Fast Food and Street Snacks
If you just want to fill your stomach, Madrid offers plenty of fast food options. Combo meals at chains like McDonald’s and Burger King run around 8-12 euros, similar to other European cities. However, I prefer local bocadillo shops where a sandwich with a drink typically costs 5-7 euros with generous portions. Morning coffee with churros at a bar runs about 3-4 euros, which is my favorite breakfast routine.
Lunch Set Menus at Regular Restaurants
The best deal in Madrid is the weekday Menu del Día. I highly recommend this! Most regular restaurants offer this service, typically including a starter, main course, dessert, and drink for 12-18 euros. My regular spot charges 15 euros for an excellent meal, much cheaper than ordering à la carte in the evening. Set menus are rarely available on weekends and evenings, when prices are significantly higher.
Comparison of Different Restaurant Types
Here’s a price breakdown I’ve compiled for reference:
| Restaurant Type | Average Cost per Person | Notes |
|---|
| Fast Food | 8-12 | McDonald’s, Burger King, etc. |
| Snack Bars/Tapas Bars | 15-25 | A few tapas with beer |
| Regular Restaurants | 12-18 | Best value for money |
| Regular Restaurants | 25-40 | Dinner or weekends |
| Mid-to-High Range | 50-80 | Reservation required |
| Fine Dining | 100+ | Michelin or specialty restaurants |
Dinner and Social Dining
When going out with friends for dinner and ordering à la carte at regular restaurants, expect to spend around 25-40 euros per person. Starters run 8-15 euros, mains 15-25 euros, desserts 5-8 euros, plus drinks. I personally prefer tapas bars where sharing several different tapas costs around 20 euros per person for a satisfying meal.
Money-Saving Tips
After living here for a while, I’ve learned a few ways to save: Never eat in tourist areas like Puerta del Sol—overpriced and not tasty. Try to have Menu del Día for weekday lunch, then cook at home or eat simply for dinner. Cooking with supermarket ingredients costs just 3-5 euros per meal. Also, many restaurants offer student discounts or loyalty cards worth checking out.
Madrid’s dining costs are mid-range for Europe—cheaper than Paris or London, but more expensive than Portugal or Eastern Europe. With smart planning, a monthly food budget of 300-500 euros allows for comfortable living. Of course, if you frequently dine out or visit upscale restaurants, the budget will be different.
