La Merced Madrid

A Culinary Oasis in Vallecas

Cesar from Madrid

About me I was born in Madrid, but I've lived here and there due to my job in the tech industry, having spent half my life traveling the world. Thanks to that, I've had the chance to meet people from all sorts of cultures and with diverse tastes. This sparked my curiosity to learn more about how people live in their own countries. Eventually, I left the tech industry and ...
""La Merced" in Madrid is a restaurant you won't believe exists in a neighborhood like Vallecas. Listening to the owner sing the daily menu is magical..."

Nestled in the unassuming neighborhood of Vallecas in Madrid, known more for its vibrant graffiti than its tourist attractions, lies a hidden gem of Madrid's culinary scene: La Merced. With over three decades of history, this establishment stands out like a beacon in an area where gastronomic delights are few and far between.

Describing La Merced merely as a restaurant wouldn't do it justice. It's more aptly a sanctuary for true food connoisseurs. Their unwavering commitment to sourcing only the finest ingredients is evident in every dish. The meticulous attention to detail, coupled with impeccable service that consistently surpasses expectations, has cemented its reputation as a must-visit locale.

One of the unique experiences of dining here is the melodious daily recital by the owner, listing out the day's offerings. It's not just about eating; it's an immersive culinary performance.

While the temptation to peruse the menu might be strong, taking a leap of faith and letting the chefs decide whether to serve meat or seafood often results in a delightful surprise. However, an insider tip for first-time visitors: if they're on offer, the confit artichokes are a non-negotiable. They are, quite possibly, the best you'll ever taste.

In the heart of Vallecas, La Merced stands as a testament that sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences are found in the most unexpected places.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

This week 25% off

with the code fall25

*on our yearly membership

Madrid Spotter Cesar

About me I was born in Madrid, but I've lived here and there due to my job in the tech industry, having spent half my life traveling the world. Thanks to that, I've had the chance to meet people from all sorts of cultures and with diverse tastes. This sparked my curiosity to learn more about how people live in their own countries. Eventually, I left the tech industry and spent more than a decade traveling the world, camera in hand, exploring cuisines that were new to me - I'm that friend who always gets asked for restaurant recommendations. My passion for gastronomy l...

About this spot

Calle Manuel Vélez, 8

Grilled Octopus:

28.60

+34

913035111

Nov 16, 2025

Our Madrid City Guide

Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid

Mauthausen Memorial

Republican Victims remembered

The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'

002-building
Art & culture

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 27, 2025

FMCMP

Spanish art in a brand new space

FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!

002-building
Art & culture

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 27, 2025

Slow Café

A standout coffee spot

It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 26, 2025

Monument to Victims of Terrorism

Lest we forget

The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 26, 2025

Caravan Serai

Where cocktails become works of art

This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

Nov 26, 2025

Vino y Compañía

Wine a bit – why not!

This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 25, 2025

La Mina

Family tradition in Chamberi

La Mina Madrid is a bar I've been visiting since 1990 for its speciality — grilled prawns. It's a spot to enjoy a caña and a chat with the locals...

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 24, 2025

El Pato Mudo

Madrid's finest rice dishes

El Pato Mudo prides itself on its traditional Spanish fare, offering dishes that are both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the taste buds.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

Nov 22, 2025

La Venencia

Madrid's timeless wine sanctuary

Not too far from the lively centre of Sol, on a street where the hustle and bustle of the city fades away, lies a truly unique gem: La Venencia.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars

by

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

Nov 22, 2025

Churrería La Andaluza

Churros like a local!

Churrería La Andaluza is off the tourist track and serves mostly loyal locals. Buy some to go, or eat them in the adjoining café...

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 21, 2025

La Desayunería

Breakfast, American-Style

La Desayunería in Madrid serves hearty American breakfast classics like pancakes, fried chicken, and grilled cheese with options for all diets.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Catherine

Driver

Nov 20, 2025

Santa Eulalia Patisserie

Cakes and Ruins

The real stars of the show are Santa Eulalia's luxurious cakes, cookies and pastries. They use only the best ingredients and traditional wood ovens.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Catherine

Driver

Nov 20, 2025

Heading to Madrid?

266 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Madrid app Home
Madrid app Home
Madrid app Map
Madrid app Home

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

266 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Madrid

Our team loves Madrid

Get to know our other Spotters from Madrid

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
[paywall_activator]
false
0
false
26
Made with the 💚 of 497 Spotters.
Filters