Where to Eat in Alcalá de Henares
Alcalá de Henares is the birthplace of Cervantes, and its food has a story to tell. The city’s cooking is hearty and proudly Castilian. Think roast suckling pig, migas and slow-cooked tripe. Meanwhile, the sweet side is famous across Madrid. Local nuns have made candied almonds here since the 1700s. The city also gives its name to rosquillas de Alcalá, ring-shaped pastries with a golden egg-yolk glaze. Another local treat is costrada, a creamy cake. As in much of the Madrid region, many bars serve a free or cheap tapa with your drink. If you plan a longer stay, read our guide to Alcalá de Henares. Also check what time Spaniards eat dinner, as kitchens open late. Now, let’s eat.
Traditional restaurants
Most of the classic bars sit around Calle Mayor and the streets near the Plaza de Cervantes. New to the tapas scene? Our guide to ordering tapas in Spain will help.
Indalo is the city’s most famous tapas bar. It is known for big crowds, low prices and cheap tapas when you order a beer. Even the King of Spain has dropped by. Google users rate it 4.3 out of 5 from almost 9,700 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the great prices, tasty tapas and fast service, despite the queues. Get directions.
Bar Restaurante Nino is a buzzing spot on Calle Mayor. It is known for tapas, cañas and raciones, plus its mushrooms and pig’s ear. Google users give it 4.1 out of 5 from over 3,300 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the low prices and traditional dishes. However, it does not take bookings, so expect a wait at peak times. Get directions.
Las Cuadras de Rocinante looks like a 16th-century stable. It is known for tripe with chickpeas, creamy croquetas and the local costrada dessert. Google users rate it 4.2 out of 5 from nearly 2,800 reviews. Reviewers regularly praise the authentic food and the lively atmosphere. As a result, lines can last up to an hour. Get directions.
Taberna 7 serves an award-winning Betanzos-style tortilla. It is known for its runny, perfectly set omelettes and creamy croquetas. Google users give it 4.5 out of 5 from over 6,300 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the friendly staff and the stylish dining room. Book ahead if you plan to eat after 3 pm. Get directions.
La Zarza is a gastro bar with a loyal local following. It is known for ensaladilla, beef-cheek tacos, calamares and homemade croquetas. Google users rate it a superb 4.8 out of 5 from almost 2,500 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the top-quality food and friendly service. It also offers a menú del día that changes with the seasons. Get directions.
Cervecería El Gato Verde is a lively bar near Cervantes’ old neighbourhood. It is known for its tortilla, long beer list and tasty olives. Google users give it 4.1 out of 5 from over 4,400 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the friendly staff and the tortilla pintxo with morning coffee. The kitchen stays open all day, which helps. Get directions.
Vinoteca Esencias del Gourmet is perfect for wine lovers. It is known for Spanish wines paired with Iberian chorizo, crispy torreznos, beef croquettes and roast octopus. Google users rate it 4.3 out of 5 from more than 800 reviews. It makes a cosy stop for an early evening glass. Get directions.
Restaurante Casino sits in a historic building on the Plaza de Cervantes. It is known for its terrace, Castilian dishes and elegant rooms. Google users give it 4.5 out of 5 from over 4,000 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the friendly service, the unusual decor and the fair prices. Try the bravas, ham croquetas and apple tart. Get directions.
Lupe Pastelería is the place for a sweet fix. It is known for rosquillas de Alcalá and other local pastries. Visitors often call it one of the best pastry shops in town. It has two shops, on Calle Cervantes and Calle Sebastián de la Plaza. Buy a rosquilla and enjoy it with coffee, just as locals do. Get directions.
Fine dining restaurants
Alcalá has a small but confident fine dining scene. Book ahead, especially at weekends. Our guide on restaurant reservations in Spain explains why.
Restaurante Eximio is the city’s Michelin Guide favourite. It is known for modern versions of traditional dishes and a well-priced tasting menu. Google users rate it 4.7 out of 5 from almost 1,250 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the tasting menu, the Russian salad starter and the friendly staff. A few diners found it good rather than special. Get directions.
Ébano Gastro Experience gives Spanish classics a modern twist. It is known for black rice croquetas and succulent meats from its charcoal oven. Google users give it 4.7 out of 5 from over 3,200 reviews. That is a big crowd for such a high score. Book a table, particularly at weekends. Get directions.
Restaurante Ambigú mixes modern design with traditional Spanish flavours. It is known for its Michelin Guide recognition for quality and value. Google users rate it 4.3 out of 5 from more than 1,500 reviews. It sits on Calle Cervantes, close to the main sights. Therefore, it suits a special lunch after sightseeing. Get directions.
La Cúpula fills a former Capuchin convent from 1618. It is known for Castilian cooking, local cheeses, hams and steaks. Google users give it 4.2 out of 5 from nearly 1,900 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the stunning setting, the attentive staff and the lovely garden tables. A few find it pricey. Get directions.
Budget friendly restaurants
Lunch is the best time to eat well for less. Many places offer a set menú del día with several courses, bread and a drink. Our guide to ordering the menú del día shows how it works.
La Seda is a homely favourite with fair prices. It is known for cod stew, meatballs, meat skewers and cheese salads. Google users rate it 4.4 out of 5 from over 2,400 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the homemade flavours and the low prices. It is a great pick for a relaxed family lunch. Get directions.
Restaurante Antológico stands opposite the cathedral. It is known for a surprisingly good menú del día, with dishes like salmorejo and salmon. It has also won cachopo competitions. Google users give it 4.3 out of 5 from nearly 1,600 reviews. Try the cheesecake or lava cake for dessert. Get directions.
Abrasador Casa Benito is the spot for steak and ribs without a big bill. It is known for chuletón and tender lacquered ribs. Google users rate it 4.7 out of 5 from almost 2,900 reviews. Reviewers regularly mention the friendly staff, fair prices and free digestifs. However, service can slow down on busy weekends. It sits near the Puerta de Madrid. Get directions.
Staying in Madrid instead? Our guide to where to eat in Madrid covers the capital. Need somewhere to stay? Read Where to Stay in Alcalá de Henares for a range of options.