Craving some desi flavours in Madrid? Worry not! Spain’s lively capital may be famed for its art, culture, and buzzing nightlife, but it is equally celebrated for its diverse food scene. From aromatic curries at Indian Aroma to the elegant dining experience at Benares, Madrid offers something for everyone.

Madrid, the heart of Spain, is a feast for the eyes, ears, and palate. While the range of places to visit in Madrid often steals the spotlight for travellers, the city’s culinary scene is just as diverse.

The Spanish value their mealtimes deeply, and while authentic Spanish cuisine continues to be the country’s most popular, with time, Madrid has gradually become diverse in both food and culture. The city now embraces global flavours, welcoming a range of fusion foods to its offerings. Among these global influences, Indian cuisine has found a special place, adding bold spices, rich aromas, and comforting dishes to its ever-expanding gastronomic offerings.

So, if you are in Spain’s vibrant capital and craving some spicy, unmistakably flavourful, and mouthwatering Indian food, here is your guide to the best places to go in Madrid for authentic Indian cuisine.

 

What are the Best Indian Restaurants in Madrid?

From smoky tandoori delights to rich curries and fragrant biryanis, here are some of the best Indian restaurants in Madrid  where you can satisfy your desi food cravings:

• Benares
• Taj Mahal
• Tandoori Station
• Bangalore
• Curry Masala
• Purnima
• Indian Aroma
• Basmati Indian Restaurant
• Doli
• Radhuni

 

Benares

For a cosy yet classy dining experience, Benares is the best place to go in Madrid. One of the few Indian restaurants in the world to earn a Michelin star, Benares has now become a true Madrid classic when it comes to refined Indian dining. The menu focuses on fresh produce and offers a blend of flavours that is sure to take you back to the city of Varanasi in India. Some popular dishes include octopus bhuna, aloo tikki, jhinga tandoor, chicken biryani, chicken tandoori, Murg Tikka Massala and Malai Macchi Curry. You can also opt for a tasting menu that will allow you to try 8 different dishes.

Address: Calle de Zurbano, 5, 28010 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm, 8 pm - 12 am;  Fri - Sat: 1:30 pm - 4 pm, 8 pm - 12:30 am (closed on Sun)

 

Taj Mahal

With multiple locations across the city, Taj Mahal is a classic Indian restaurant worth visiting in Madrid. Known for its familiar flavours and comforting dishes, it is the perfect choice for travellers craving home. If you enjoy bold and spicy flavours, the lamb vindaloo, a famous dish from Goa, India, is a must-try. And, if not, you can opt for their tandoori dishes, cooked in a traditional clay tandoor oven.

Address: Calle Belén 12, 28004 (Madrid) and four more locations throughout the city.

Opening hours: 1:30–4:30 pm, 7:30 pm–12 am (hours can vary across different locations)

 

Tandoori Station

The Tandoori Station is one of the most famous places in Madrid for those who love tandoori and curry dishes. Headed by Chef Nadeem Siraj, the restaurant has an underground railway station theme interior, giving it a very unique vibe. The chef’s favourite dish is Biryani, which he prepares exactly how his mother used to do. They also offer the Chetak Express tasting menu, which serves four courses, taking you on a gastronomic journey from the north to the south of India. 

Address: Calle de José Ortega y Gasset, 89-91, 28006 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 1:30 pm - 4 pm, 8 pm - 12 am; Sun: 1:30 pm - 4 pm (closed on Mon)

 

Bangalore

Situated in the Salamanca neighbourhood, Bangalore is a restaurant inspired by India’s southern city of Bangalore, also known as the Garden City of India. It embodied this green spirit through its jungle-style décor and lush plants. The menu is extensive, offering unique options alongside popular favourites such as Lamb Madras and Chicken Tikka Masala. Their tandoori chicken, marinated in yoghurt and spices, is a standout, as are the freshly prepared samosas.

Address: Calle Diego de León, 63 (Salamanca neighbourhood)

Opening hours: 1:00 pm –5:00 pm, 8:00 pm–1:00 am

 

Curry Masala

The Curry Masala is a popular Indian restaurant, thanks to its strategic location near the Gran Vía, a renowned tourist attraction in Madrid. The restaurant features a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, with facilities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and nearby parking. Some of the best-selling dishes include their chicken samosa, chicken tikka, dal makhani, and lamb curry. They also offer tasting and à la carte menus, with a variety of options for vegetarians and vegans.

Address: Calle de Silva, 16, 28004 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 1 pm - 4 pm, 8 pm - 11:30 pm; Fri - Sun: 1 pm - 4 pm, 8 pm - 12 am

 

Purnima

If you are seeking traditional Indian cuisine, then Purnima is the best place to go in Madrid for you. The restaurant offers dishes reinterpreted from the most traditional cuisine, but with a modern touch. There is also a tasting menu that will let you taste everything from cheese rolls to curries such as butter chicken and chana masala. Beyond the food, the interior of the restaurant is sure to catch your attention, too. Designed to resemble a tropical jungle, the space features green and white walls, with plants throughout, creating a perfect retreat to unwind after a long day of exploring Madrid’s top attractions.

Address: Calle de Goya, 110, 28009 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: 1:30 pm - 5 pm, 8:15 pm - 12:30 am (daily)

 

Indian Aroma

Indian Aroma offers authentic Indian flavours at affordable prices, making it one of the famous places in Madrid for an Indian dining experience. Known for its stylish décor and attentive service, the restaurant serves dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Some of the favourites include chicken tandoori, chicken tikka masala, and lamb korma. Always book your table in advance since it is a popular spot.

Address: Calle de Ventura de la Vega, 6, 28014 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: 1 pm - 4 pm, 8 pm - 11:30 pm (daily)

 

Basmati Indian Restaurant

Basmati Indian Restaurant is a cosy spot known for its authentic Indian flavours and welcoming atmosphere. They are a halal-certified establishment, offering a diverse menu of traditional dishes, expertly prepared using the finest ingredients, including fresh basmati rice, spices and beer. Some of the favourite dishes among regulars include paneer tikka, peshwari naan and curries. From Monday to Thursday, guests can enjoy the regular menu, while Fridays feature a special set menu.

Address: 18 Calle de Sandoval Local izda, 28010 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 1 pm - 4:30 pm, 8 pm - 11:30 pm; Fri: 8 pm - 11:30 pm

 

Doli

Doli is an Indian restaurant that delivers a refined dining experience rooted in traditional Indian cuisine. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with wedding paraphernalia; rather, it is about serving traditional Indian fare. The restaurant offers a posh dining experience, specialising in blending different flavours without losing its Indian essence. Some of the must-try dishes include Kashmiri rice, samosas, and lamb curry. The overall service of the restaurant is excellent, and the staff is also very attentive.

Address: Calle de Diego de León, 13, 28006 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm, 8 pm - 12 am (daily)

 

Radhuni

If you want to enjoy Indian food at a classy restaurant that too at a steal price, then Radhuni is the best place to go in Madrid. The restaurant is renowned for offering authentic Indian cuisine in a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The menu features traditional dishes, such as chicken tikka masala, lamb khorma, pilaf rice, and tandoori naan filled with nuts, and the portions are also generous. Previous guests praise the restaurant for giving some of the best service in Madrid.

Address: Calle Príncipe Carlos, 21, 28050 Madrid, Spain

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 12 pm - 4:30 pm, 8 pm - 11:30 pm; Sat - Sun: 12 pm - 4:30 pm, 8 pm - 12 am

 

As we conclude our exploration of the top Indian Restaurants in Madrid, it is clear that the city’s food scene is as diverse as its culture. From traditional Indian cuisines to modern fusion dishes, Madrid is sure to take your taste buds for a ride. So, while you are ticking off the many things to do in Madrid, make sure to include a visit to at least one Indian restaurant in your itinerary.

To make your trip even more memorable and hassle-free, consider exploring the range of Madrid tour packages offered by Veena World. From accommodation and transportation to day-to-day itineraries, we take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying yourself.

 

FAQs

Q1. Why are many Indian restaurants in Madrid influenced by Nepalese cuisine?

A large number of Indian restaurants in Madrid are run by Nepalese chefs, which subtly influences the menu. You’ll often find dishes like momo or slightly lighter curries, offering a distinctive Indo-Himalayan twist that’s uncommon in other European cities.

Q2. Can you find regional Indian cuisine beyond butter chicken in Madrid?

Yes, though it requires looking beyond the city centre. Some smaller restaurants serve lesser-known regional dishes from South India or Punjab, such as dosa-style pancakes or slow-cooked lamb curries, catering to diners seeking more authentic flavours.

Q3. Why do Indian dishes in Madrid taste milder than in the UK?

Indian food in Madrid is often adapted to local preferences, with reduced spice levels and creamier sauces. However, many restaurants will happily adjust heat and seasoning if you ask, making it possible to enjoy dishes closer to traditional Indian flavours.

Q4. Are there vegetarian and vegan Indian options suited to Madrid’s food scene?

Indian cuisine fits surprisingly well with Madrid’s growing plant-based scene. Many restaurants offer lentil-based dals, chickpea curries and vegetable biryanis, making Indian food one of the most reliable vegan-friendly options in the city.

Q5. Is Indian food in Madrid popular with locals or mainly tourists?

While it was once mostly tourist-driven, Indian cuisine is increasingly popular among locals, especially younger Madrileños. Indian restaurants are now seen as an alternative dining experience rather than an exotic novelty.