Tierra Burrito Bar — Restaurant in Madrid

To the Americans visiting Madrid -

If God hadn't rested on the 7th day, He would have created Tierra on that day. Well I guess he did technically create “la tierra” on the first day butttt. You get the point. Anyhow, this restaurant is excellent. A favorite of nearly every student on my study abroad program. I will take this time to share my love for Tierra with the world so that future students will be able hit the ground running - with a burrito in hand - upon arriving in Madrid.

Tierra Burrito Bar, as you may have guessed by now, is a modern Mexican restaurant. They have 7 locations scattered throughout Madrid, one of which is just a pick up window in Plaza del Sol. Inside, the restaurants are spacious. Folding metal chairs accompany recycled wood tables and many dimly-lit hipster lamps hang from the ceiling. The latest top 40 hits playing in the background create an upbeat and trendy ambiance.

But it’s not just the music that adds flair to Tierra. The restaurants are always packed with young people, who as we all know create the coolest atmosphere. A large group usually occupies one of the central 20-foot long communal tables, but when there is space, I recommend taking a seat. It’s a great place to meet new people, or just to practice your Spanish eavesdropping skills. It should be mentioned that everyone in the restaurant is happy. And for good reason. They are about to eat, or have just eaten, delicious Mexican food.

Tierra gives you options. You may order a burrito, a salad bowl (desnudo - jejeje), tacos or nachos. They keep it simple. Once you have made that decision, it's time to walk the line. White rice or brown? Beans? Meats? The usual stuff. Roasted vegetables are included which is a plus. And if you order just a veggie burrito, guacamole is free! At this point you’re thinking, “You just described Chipotle...” WRONG! You didn't wait for me to mention the nacho cheese sauce. God actually did create this nacho sauce on the fifth day. It is excellent. There are myriad of other ingredients you can add to your meal - sweet corn, tortilla chips, pico de gallo - each fresh and delicious. I will warn you, the medium salsa is hot!

If you do choose the medium salsa, let alone hot, you’re going to be thirsty. Fear not, Tierra provides a large selection of beers and soda. Locals tip: you can ask for a glass of water free of charge. Additionally, Tierra serves strong margaritas. One liter costs about €12. But during their twice daily happy hours, you can purchase 1 liter and an order of nachos for €15. It’s a great way to relax after class with some friends. In fact, I know many students that do...

The food was surprisingly fresh and flavourful! It was hearty and well prepared. My sister and I got the chicken burrito meal which came with a drink, and then we ordered with a side of nachos- it was a lot of food at the end. I love how this place allows you to pick your own ingredients that go into the burrito, including the sauce. For the nachos, the chips were crunchy and not stale, and they gave a good amount of fresh guacamole on top. The spot was very spacious and had a good ambiance (good music). We personally thought it was pricey for it being a burrito spot, but no regrets. We would have given it a full 5 star for food if they provide salsa and sour cream...

Look, a couple years ago I had my first burrito from Taco Bell and it scarred me for life 😂 So I was nervous coming to Tierra because I didn't know what to expect and it ended up blowing my mind. Fresh ingredients, delicious meats and sauces and the whole thing is assembled right in front of you, with you picking the ingredients yourself. My burrito was absolutely delicious, for just 8€, and the soft drinks station is perfect for just 2€. The atmosphere, and whole aesthetic of the shop, was pretty great and lively. Strongly recommended and I can't wait to try the...