Local Insight:The tradition of tapas began in Spanish taverns where drinks were covered (*”tapar”*) with a slice of bread or ham to keep flies out. Today, Madrid’s “tapeo” culture turns an evening stroll into a moving feast across hidden bars and bustling markets.

Madrid’s Mercado de San Miguel isn’t just a market—it’s a culinary temple. But locals know the real gems are in neighborhood markets like Antón Martín, where you’ll find generations-old stalls serving the city’s most authentic flavors without the tourist markup.

The best tapas aren’t on the menu. In Madrid’s oldest taverns, the real magic is often the “ración” or “pincho” of the day, prepared with market-fresh ingredients. Ask for “la recomendación del día” (today’s recommendation) to eat like a true local.

Madrid’s food scene is a living history book. Each tapa tells a story—from the humble potato omelet born from necessity to the garlic shrimp invented in a tavern near Plaza Mayor. On these tours, you don’t just eat; you experience centuries of culture in every bite.