Let’s Eat! But on a Budget!

Over the past couple of months, I have mostly enjoyed my meals in the dining hall of my residential building, but when it is closed on Sundays, I can explore the many restaurants that Madrid has to offer. At the same time, it is always good to stop somewhere for a quick bite. It can be hard to find places for a budget, but they are everywhere in Madrid. In this blog, I want to share some of my favorite places to eat on a budget! This is just a short list with some of my favorites, but trust me, there are many more. 

 

Takos al Pastor 

Many people recommend TKO Tacos or Tiki Taco, but I am here to tell you that the best tacos I have had are at this place. They only have one location, so the queue can get very long, but it is always moving. I usually go here during the week when I am missing a taste of home. I usually pay 10 to 12 euros for a meal, including a drink. A couple of days ago, I asked my friends to come with me, and they all enjoyed their meals. I recommend getting the gringa quesadilla! 

 

99 Cheesecake 

This is a very biased choice, as I am one of the biggest cheesecake fans on this planet. You can get a slice of cheesecake for only 99 cents, but if you want to add a topping, which I usually do, it is less than 2 euros. My favorite is the Kinder Bueno sauce! They have so many different flavors and toppings, plus they have more than one location. 

 

Officina 22 

Located in the heart of La Latina, this establishment is one of my favorite pizza places. I found this place during my first week in Madrid, and I think about it all the time. Their pizza ranges from 7.50 to 12 euros, which is such a steal. You can share a pizza with someone else or eat half and save the rest! 

 

Sankaku Onigiri 

This place is on Gran Via, and I pass it every day on my commute back to my residential hall. They have a variety of onigiri that is fresh and delicious! They are all mostly 3.90 euros. I usually get a spicy salmon one, which is a great snack when I realize that I have to wait until 8:15pm for dinner. 

 

Bocadillos Oink 

This place seems to be a favorite among many people, and they have a variety of bocadillos. They have a couple of locations, and prices range from 4.30 to 11 euros. One of my favorite items is their bocadillo de jamón ibérico y queso manchego. This is a wonderful place for a quick bite!

 

Districto Burger 

I have tried many burger places, and this has been one of my favorites. They have a great deal: their menu del día. You get a burger, drink, unlimited fries, and a dessert for 12.50 euros. This is a great option if you need a fulfilling meal on a budget. 

 

More Blogs From This Author

View All Blogs
Lesly Hernandez headshot

Lesly Hernandez

I am a junior at Macalester College, majoring in Political Science and Sociology. I am excited to explore all that Madrid has to offer - specifically coffee shops and museums. Fun fact: I have been to every coffee shop in the Twin Cities.

Destination:
Term:
2026 Spring
Home University:
Macalester College
Hometown:
Joliet, IL
Major:
Political Science
Sociology
Explore Blogs