Madrid is a city that eats late, eats loudly, and eats outdoors. That might sound like a poor fit for a family trip, but it’s actually one of the strengths of Madrid’s food scene: quality tables are rarely stuffy, kids are welcome almost everywhere, and the overall standard of cooking, from mercados to fine-dining rooms, is high enough that parents don’t have to compromise. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants in Madrid for a successful family trip.
Brach Madrid
Brach Madrid is the restaurant at the 5-star hotel of the same name, set in a Haussmann-style building on Gran Vía designed by Philippe Starck. Chef Adam Bentalha serves Mediterranean cooking with Middle Eastern touches, a generous, easygoing menu built around seasonal produce, fresh herbs and slow cooking. The room is large, bright and loud enough: exactly the kind of atmosphere that works well with kids.
What you’ll eat there
The menu mixes Brach Paris classics with Spanish references: grilled vegetables, generous desserts. Sunday brunch (12:30pm to 4pm, €77 for adults, €30 for kids aged 3 to 12) is one of the best value-for-experience deals in Madrid for families: a hearty buffet, festive atmosphere, smooth service.
Great for families because…
The Sunday brunch with a dedicated kids’ rate is a genuine family offer in a luxury setting. The main dining room is large enough that nobody has to whisper. Brach Madrid hotel welcomes families with children in its rooms and suites, which makes it easier to base a Madrid stay around Gran Vía. The cooking is approachable (no imposed seven-course tasting menu here) and portions are generous.
Practical information
Gran Vía 20, 28013 Madrid
Madrid EDITION
On Plaza de Celenque, between Sol and Gran Vía, The Madrid EDITION is a 200-room 5-star hotel set in a restored 19th-century building. It has a rooftop with a heated pool, a full spa, two restaurants (including a rooftop bar by Adrian Zaragoza), and an architectural approach that blends Madrid heritage with contemporary international design. It’s the most approachable 5-star address in Madrid on a value-for-experience basis, for families who don’t need a hotel-as-museum but still want flawless comfort and service.
Great for families because…
The central location, within walking distance of the two big museums, the Retiro and Mercado San Miguel, plus the rooftop pool, are two solid arguments for families. The hotel’s size allows for a full range of services without the chill of a grand palace hotel.
Practical information
Plaza de Celenque 2, 28013 Madrid
Bless Hotel Madrid
In the Salamanca district, Bless Hotel Madrid is a 111-room 5-star hotel with a rooftop pool, a spa, three restaurants, and a decor that sits between Madrid design and Art Deco influences. Salamanca is Madrid’s most elegant and residential neighbourhood: shops, restaurants, noticeably calmer than the centre, with easy access on foot or by metro to the major sights. For families with teenagers who like design and fashion, it’s a solid pick.
Great for families because…
The Salamanca neighbourhood is quiet, safe and residential, while still under 20 minutes on foot from the Prado and Retiro park. The rooftop pool and spa give you a proper place to recover after a day of museums. Restaurant Benedikt runs a weekend brunch that works well for families.
Practical information
Calle de Velázquez 62, 28001 Madrid