Where to eat in Madrid for less than 10 euros

Eating in Madrid for under €10 is still possible, but it usually means choosing simple options: sandwiches, slices of Spanish omelet, empanadas, small open-faced sandwiches, kebabs, pizza by the slice, or ready-made meals. In the more touristy areas, it's difficult to find a full meal for that price, so it's best to venture a few streets away from the main squares and check the menu before sitting down.

Madrid offers options for very different budgets, from fine dining restaurants to small neighborhood bars. However, the €10 limit necessitates a distinction between eat enough and enjoy a full meal with table service, drinks, dessert and coffee.

On the other hand, with that budget you can get a quick meal, try some local Madrid dishes, or combine two small plates. In fact, it's unrealistic to expect a full set menu in the city center for less than 10 euros.

Prices change rapidly, so this article focuses on specific locations and formats as well as strategies for finding affordable options without relying on a specific promotion.

Is it possible to eat in Madrid for less than 10 euros?

Yes, but expectations need to be adjusted.

In addition, you can usually find the following for less than 10 euros:

• Snacks.
• Sandwiches.
• Montaditos.
• Empanadas.
• Kebab or dürüm.
• Pizza by the slice.
• Portions of tortilla.
• Prepared dishes.
• Promotional menus.
• Tapas or small portions.
• Takeaway food.
• Bakery and coffee shop products.

It is also less common to find the following at that price:

• Full daily menu.
• Extended table service.
• First course, second course, drink and dessert.
• Lunch on a tourist terrace.
• Main dishes in restaurants in the monumental center.
• Rice or meat dishes prepared on the spot.

On the other hand, the fundamental difference lies in the type of establishment. A bar, a fast-food joint, or a market stall can offer a decent option for under 10 euros. A traditional restaurant with a waiter, a terrace, and several dishes will hardly maintain that price.

Food options for under 10 euros in Madrid

1. Calamari sandwich near the Plaza Mayor

The calamari sandwich is one of the most popular options for eating cheaply in the center of Madrid.

It consists of breaded and fried calamari served inside a loaf of bread. Depending on the establishment, it may include lemon or a sauce, although the traditional version is usually simple.

On the other hand, the area most associated with this sandwich is the surroundings of:

• Main Square.
• Street in Ciudad Rodrigo.
• Buttonhole Street.
• Toledo Street.
• Post Street.
• Cascorro Square.

Madrid Tourism It includes the calamari sandwich among the characteristic gastronomic experiences of the city and relates it especially to the surroundings of the Plaza Mayor.

How to stick to a budget

• Check the price before ordering.
• Check if drinks are charged separately.
• Avoid sitting on the terrace if there is a surcharge.
• Look for places with bar service.
• Compare two or three nearby cards.
• Don't assume that all sandwiches cost less than 10 euros.

A sandwich can work as fast food, although it doesn't always include a side dish.

2. Ham, tortilla or pork loin sandwiches

Bars, cafes and sandwich shops remain one of the most reliable options.

Other common options include:

• Serrano ham.
• Potato omelet.
• Back.
• Bacon.
• Cheese.
• Tuna.
• Sausage.
• Squid.
• Pepito de ternera, although it may exceed the limit.

In addition, the Jamón Museum maintains several establishments in central areas such as Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Calle Mayor, Carrera de San Jerónimo, and Paseo del Prado. Their offerings include sandwiches, tapas, and charcuterie products, although prices should be checked on each location's menu.

When is it a good option?

• Between two visits.
• Before entering a museum.
• To go.
• When you don't want to waste an hour in a restaurant.
• If you're looking to try some ham without ordering a full portion.

It is important to differentiate between Serrano ham, Iberian ham and acorn-fed Iberian ham, because the price can vary considerably.

3. Montaditos and weekly promotions

In fact, montaditos allow you to combine small pieces of bread with different fillings.

One unit is not always enough, but several can make an economical meal.

On the other hand, the 100 Montaditos chain maintains the promotion called Euromania on Wednesdays and Sundays, during which a large part of the menu is offered for one euro, subject to conditions and availability in each establishment.

Advantages

• Price that's easy to control.
• Variety.
• Premises distributed throughout Madrid.
• Possibility of ordering multiple units.
• Fast service.

Disadvantages

• The units are small.
• The drink may increase the total.
• Promotions are not valid every day.
• Some products are excluded from the offer.
• The establishments may be very crowded.

Before ordering, it's advisable to calculate the total price including drinks and any extras.

4. Sandwiches in taverns and cafes

Outside of the most touristy establishments, you can still find sandwiches for under 10 euros.

For example, the menu published by Taberna Pecaditos shows sandwiches of tortilla, pork loin, bacon or fried squid for 7.50 euros in July 2026. The price should be checked again because it may change.

On the other hand, this type of option usually appears in:

• Neighborhood bars.
• Traditional cafes.
• Taverns.
• Breweries.
• Premises near universities.
• Office areas.

To find a budget-friendly option, first look in the snacks, sandwiches, or combination plates section instead of just checking the main dishes.

5. Empanadas

Empanadas are a practical option because they allow you to:

• Eating while walking.
• Buy multiple units.
• Choose different fillings.
• Transport them easily.
• Control spending.
• Find alternatives to meat, chicken, tuna, cheese, or vegetables.

They can be purchased at:

• Bakeries.
• Argentine establishments.
• Galician venues.
• Markets.
• Cafeterias.
• Latin American stores.

Also, with a budget of 10 euros you can usually combine two empanadas or one large empanada with a drink, depending on the establishment.

Areas to search

• Footbath.
• Ambassadors.
• Argüelles.
• Moncloa.
• Tetouan.
• Usera.
• Prosperity.
• Atocha area.

Empanadas work especially well for travelers who want to eat something quick without resorting to an international chain.

6. Kebab or dürüm

Kebabs continue to be one of the easiest options to find for under 10 euros.

Prices vary depending on the establishment and the ordering channel. Ordering in-store is usually cheaper than using a delivery platform, where commissions, service fees, and delivery costs may be added.

In addition, the usual options include:

• Kebab in bread.
• Dürüm.
• Falafel.
• Small plate.
• Menu with drink and chips.
• Lahmacun.

What to check

• If the price corresponds only to the kebab.
• If potatoes are included.
• How much does the drink cost?.
• If the menu costs more than 10 euros.
• If there are supplements for cheese or other ingredients.
• If the online price is different from the in-store price.

It is a particularly common option near stations, university areas, and residential neighborhoods.

7. Pizza by the slice

In fact, pizza by the slice allows you to buy one or more slices without paying for a whole pizza.

It can be found at:

• Small pizzerias.
• Markets.
• Bakeries.
• Italian restaurants.
• Chains.
• Takeaway food establishments.

For less than 10 euros it may be possible to buy two portions or one large portion with a drink, depending on the area.

How to choose better

• Check the actual portion size.
• Check if the pizza has been out for a long time.
• Ask if they heat it up immediately.
• Compare the price per serving.
• Check if there's a deal that includes a drink.
• Avoid adding accessories without knowing the price.

In neighborhoods like Lavapiés, Malasaña, Argüelles and Moncloa there are usually more informal alternatives than in the monumental squares.

8. Potato omelet

On the other hand, a portion of tortilla with bread can solve a light meal or a late breakfast.

It can be ordered as:

• Tortilla skewer.
• Tortilla sandwich.
• Cover.
• Takeaway portion.
• Combination with a drink.

The price varies greatly depending on the establishment. Tortillas that are especially popular or promoted on social media are not always the cheapest.

On the other hand, to keep spending below 10 euros, look for:

• Neighborhood cafes.
• Bars with a counter.
• Bakeries.
• Traditional markets.
• Breakfast or mid-morning menus.

Ask if bread is included, as some establishments charge for it separately.

9. Municipal markets

Markets may also offer stalls with:

• Empanadas.
• Tortilla.
• Croquettes.
• Snacks.
• Prepared food.
• International cuisine.
• Dishes of the day.
• Portions.
• Products to go.

However, not all markets are economical.

Furthermore, the San Miguel Market It's one of Madrid's best-known gastronomic spaces, but currently it functions primarily as a tourist market and tasting venue. Buying several tapas can quickly exceed €10. Madrid Tourism includes this space along with other traditional and gastronomic markets in the city, whose offerings and prices vary considerably.

In fact, for tight budgets it may be more useful to check out local markets such as:

• San Fernando Market.
• Antón Martín Market.
• Wonders Market.
• Barley Market.
• Vallehermoso Market.
• Prosperity Market.
• Tirso de Molina Market.

On the other hand, not all of their stalls will offer meals for less than 10 euros. It's a good idea to check the menu boards before ordering.

10. Bakeries and cafes

On the other hand, bakeries can be an economical solution for a light meal.

They usually offer:

• Sandwiches.
• Snacks.
• Empanadas.
• Quiches.
• Slices of pizza.
• Tortilla.
• Savory pastries.
• Prepared salads.
• Coffee.
• Cold drinks.

Likewise, a combination of a savory item and a drink can stay under budget.

This option is especially practical:

• Early in the morning.
• Near stations.
• Before an excursion.
• To eat in a park.
• When restaurants haven't yet opened their kitchens.
• If you need to bring the food.

11. Supermarkets with prepared food

Supermarkets can be useful when the main goal is to control the budget.

Depending on the establishment, they may offer:

• Snacks.
• Salads.
• Sushi.
• Tortilla.
• Roasted chicken.
• Empanadas.
• Paste.
• Fruit.
• Yogurt.
• Drinks.
• Prepared dishes ready to heat.

Furthermore, for less than 10 euros you can arrange a more complete meal than in some tourist establishments.

Before you buy

Check:

• If the product requires a microwave.
• If the accommodation allows it to be heated.
• Does it include cutlery?.
• Where it can be consumed.
• The conservation conditions.
• The portion size.

Eating is not allowed in any museum, monument or shop, so it is advisable to choose a suitable park, square or accommodation beforehand.

12. Tapas included with the drink

Madrid does not generally maintain a system whereby all drinks include a generous tapa.

In fact, some bars serve a small snack with your drink, but:

• It can be just olives or potatoes.
• The amount varies.
• There is no choice.
• It is not guaranteed.
• Ordering several drinks with your meal can end up being more expensive.
• Practices vary between establishments.

On the other hand, it is not advisable to organize the budget assuming that each drink will include a sufficient tapa.

Areas where it's easier to eat cheaply

Footbath

It also offers a wide variety of:

• Indian cuisine.
• Bangladesh.
• Senegalese.
• Moroccan.
• Latin American.
• Kebab.
• Empanadas.
• Informal menus.

Furthermore, prices have increased and not everything is cheap, but it remains a useful area for comparing offers.

Ambassadors

It allows you to find:

• Markets.
• Bars.
• Bakeries.
• International cuisine.
• Takeaway food.
• Less touristy establishments.

It can be combined with a visit to Lavapiés, El Rastro or the Reina Sofía Museum.

Moncloa and Argüelles

In fact, the presence of students favors the existence of:

• Snacks.
• Quick menus.
• Burgers.
• Pizza.
• Kebab.
• Cafeterias.
• Promotions.

It is also a convenient area before taking a bus to the mountains or San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Tetouan

It also offers a wide range of:

• Latin American cuisine.
• Bakeries.
• Kebab.
• Chicken.
• Asian restaurants.
• Takeaway food.

It is also off the beaten tourist track, but well connected by metro.

Usera

It's a reference point for Chinese and Asian cuisine, although many restaurants charge over 10 euros when you order a main course and a drink.

On the other hand, the budget can be maintained through:

• Savory pastries.
• Dumplings in small portions.
• Snacks.
• Takeaway food.
• Asian supermarket products.
• Shared dishes, when the group allows it.

Malasaña

It has many informal options, but it shouldn't automatically be considered cheap.

Gourmet burgers, brunch options, and trendy spots often break the bank. So, to spend less, look for:

• Pizza by the slice.
• Empanadas.
• Snacks.
• Promotional menus.
• Bakeries.
• Takeaway food.

Plaza Mayor area

Similarly, it is possible to eat for less than 10 euros if you choose a sandwich or a bar option.

Furthermore, it becomes more difficult to do so if you are looking for:

• Terrace.
• Tableware.
• First and second course.
• Drink and dessert.
• Direct views of the square.

Going two or three blocks away can make a significant difference.

Is it possible to find a set menu for less than 10 euros?

It's difficult now, especially in the center.

On the other hand, recent guides to cheap food in Madrid place many inexpensive menus above 10 euros, usually around 12 euros or more.

Even traditionally budget-friendly establishments offer complete menus above that limit. For example, the classic menu published by the Museo del Jamón (Ham Museum) is priced at €13.90 and includes a first course, a second course, bread, a drink, and dessert.

This does not mean that there are no exceptions, but a full menu for less than 10 euros should no longer be presented as something commonplace in the center of Madrid.

What can you really buy with 10 euros

Option 1

• Sandwich.
• Water or inexpensive soft drinks.

Option 2

• Two empanadas.
• Drink.

Option 3

• Several units of montaditos on promotion.
• Drink.

Option 4

• Kebab or dürüm.
• Without sides or with a drink, depending on the establishment.

Option 5

• Two slices of pizza.
• Water.

Option 6

• Tortilla skewer.
• Another tapa or small sandwich.
• Drink.

Option 7

• Salad or ready-made meal from the supermarket.
• Fruit.
• Water.

Furthermore, the total will always depend on the establishment's prices and whether the consumption takes place at the bar, table, terrace or home delivery.

How to avoid spending more than planned

Look at the menu before you sit down

Also, once the table is occupied, it is more inconvenient to leave.

Check the terrace add-ons

In addition, some establishments apply different prices or surcharges.

Ask if bread is charged separately.

In fact, it can be added automatically in restaurants and taverns.

Check the price of the drink

On the other hand, an inexpensive sandwich can cease to be inexpensive when you add soda, beer, or coffee.

Distinguish between tapa, half portion and portion

On the other hand, the price and size change considerably.

Avoid ordering without a menu.

Ask to know the price before accepting recommendations.

Check if VAT is included

Likewise, prices aimed at the consumer should be clearly displayed, but it is advisable to check any additional conditions.

Don't confuse "from" with the final price

Additionally, promotions may refer to the smallest product or exclude accessories.

Buy directly in store

In fact, delivery platforms can display different prices and add fees.

Eat cheaply near the main monuments

Near Puerta del Sol

Search in:

• Cart Street.
• Calle de la Cruz.
• Antón Martín's surroundings.
• Side streets towards Lavapiés.
• Carrera de San Jerónimo, comparing charts.

Near Plaza Mayor

Prioritize:

• Calamari sandwich.
• Sandwiches at the bar.
• Empanadas.
• Montaditos.
• Takeaway food.

Near the Prado Museum

Similarly, it may be easier to find affordable options for:

• Anton Martin.
• Atocha Street.
• Literary Quarter, avoiding the most touristy squares.
• Atocha Station.

Near the Royal Palace

Compare establishments at:

• Santiago Street.
• Main street.
• Opera House Setting.
• Plaza de España.
• Interior streets of Argüelles.

Near the Retiro Park

On the other hand, options inside and near the main entrances can be more expensive. An alternative is to buy food before entering and take a break in a designated area of the park, disposing of your trash properly afterward.

Eating for less than 10 euros with children

They can work especially well with children:

• Snacks.
• Tortilla.
• Pizza.
• Empanadas.
• Prepared pasta.
• Chicken.
• Sandwiches.
• Bakeries.

It is worth reviewing:

• Allergies.
• Ingredients.
• Spicy.
• Serving size.
• Possibility of sitting down.
• Bathroom availability.
• Waiting time.
• Space for the cart.

Likewise, the cheapest option is not always the most practical for a family if it requires eating standing up or does not have a bathroom.

Is it always worth looking for the cheapest option?

Not necessarily.

Walking forty minutes to save two euros may not be worth it during a short stay.

Furthermore, a more balanced strategy involves alternating:

• Simple breakfast.
• Main course with set menu.
• Quick dinner.
• Shop at the supermarket.
• Snack during an excursion.
• A consciously chosen gastronomic experience.

Saving on some meals allows you to set aside money to try a stew, some good tripe, a gastronomic visit or a properly prepared rice dish.

Discover Madrid without overspending

Eating cheaply in Madrid is still possible, but it requires moving away from the idea that any bar in the center will offer a complete menu for less than 10 euros.

Sandwiches, empanadas, neighborhood markets and takeaway food allow you to organize an economical day out without completely abandoning local flavors.

At 4U Madrid we incorporate practical recommendations into our tours so that each traveler can continue their day according to their budget, schedule and the area where the tour ends.

Frequently asked questions about eating cheaply in Madrid

How much does it cost to eat in Madrid?

Zones, times and recommendations