Zalacaín Restaurant — Restaurant in Madrid

Every trip we go on we always have one grand dinner because why not, we're on vacation and while in Madrid, Zalacain was our pick. Although Zalacain is no longer a Michelin restaurant, the service is on point and the dishes are delicious, not to mention they have hosted the Spanish King and Queen. Want to feel like royalty? Zalacain is the place!

Located in the beautiful neighborhood, you are sure to be met by valet and escorted into the restaurant where, if you are lucky, the owner and his wife will take your coats, seat you at your table and given the menu. Both husband and wife are very warm and personable, make great conversation and recommend some great dishes on the menu.

To start, they offer complementary tapas because this is the Spanish way and I am not complaining one bit. Croquets and meats yum! Champagne and wine to celebrate. I ordered a half a dozen of oysters on the half shell to start off with. Oysters were plump and fresh and delicious. My main course, I chose Entrecote de buey al vino tinto con tuetano de ternera joven (beef steak in red wine sauce with young veal bone marrow on top). My steak was perfectly rare for my liking, sauce was luxurious without overpowering the meat and the bone marrow topping took the dish to a whole new level. Wow! We also tried one of their "classic dishes" the mushroom and goose liver lasagna which was unlike any lasagna we've ever tasted. For Dessert, we enjoyed an assortment variety of pastries and chocolates which were delicate and delicious and a wonderful dessert wine I wish I remembered the name of.

Service is white glove and TOP NOTCH! Food is aesthetically arranged and delicious. Fantastic wine selection and Spanish modern luxury without being too pretentious. Great place to dine...

For the first Michelin star restaurant I ate at. This place blew me away. The complexity of the dishes and tastes were phenomenal.

If you are thinking of trying a Michelin star restaurant out please do it and you will not regret it. Only thing you may regret is the bill at the end but I guarantee the atmosphere and flavors will make this a memorable experience.

Upon walking in you are greeted by the staff. You see a very well lit area before walking to your table. You will have some decor and upon sitting will be given some dishes. These are very light but contain so much flavor. For a starter I tried the lasagna and if your looking for a cheesy dish and has that decadent cheese flavor. You have to try it. On top of that was the croquettes these were so delicious. Containing that amount of cheese that makes you instantly want to grab another. Don't forget the endless supply of fresh bread that will hold you over just enough until your main course arrives. I ordered the Hare and what a dish this was. For my first time trying this I was blown away the the taste and tenderness of the dish.

Finishing the night I went with the crepes. I figured how could a dessert item get any better. Not only was it cooked fresh infront of me but the flavor was immense. Fresh fruit taste and the inside was very creamy.

Finally, for the review I would have to give this place a 9.9 out of 10 on that 🔥 scale. Not only was this place unique and packed with flavor. It held a standard I have never seen before. Thank you Zalacaín for the deliciousness and I will be back.

For future travel and food adventures...

Zalacaín – A Culinary Gem in Madrid

Zalacaín in Madrid offers a truly exceptional gastronomic experience, reflecting its well-deserved reputation and rich history. The elegant and sophisticated ambiance immediately captivates guests, while the attentive and professional service enhances the dining experience.

As a starter, we chose the prawn salad, which impressed us with its freshness and perfect balance of flavors. The prawns were cooked to perfection, and the ingredients complemented each other beautifully, resulting in a light yet flavorful dish.

For the main course, we tried the tripe, a traditional dish of Spanish cuisine. At Zalacaín, this dish stood out—the tripe was tender and flavorful, with perfectly balanced seasoning. It truly showcased the chefs’ expertise and deep respect for tradition.

The restaurant’s wine list is also remarkable, offering a wide selection of high-quality wines that pair excellently with the dishes.

Overall, Zalacaín is a place where traditional Spanish cuisine meets modern gastronomy in an elegant yet welcoming setting. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable culinary...