
Sobrino de Botín
Step back in time at the world's oldest restaurant, savoring centuries-old recipes and a truly unique historic ambiance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Sobrino de Botín

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the world's oldest restaurant, savoring centuries-old recipes and a truly unique historic ambiance.
"An unforgettable experience at the world's oldest restaurant, worth visiting for history and food!"
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, often far in advance, to secure a table.
Try the Specialties
Don't miss the signature roast suckling pig or roast lamb for an authentic taste.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Spanish
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The World's Oldest Restaurant
Dine at the Guinness World Record holder for the oldest continuously operating restaurant, established in 1725.

Signature Suckling Pig
Savor the renowned cochinillo asado, slow-roasted in a historic wood-fired oven for unparalleled flavor.

Historic Ambiance
Immerse yourself in centuries of history within the charming, traditional Castilian-style dining rooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, often far in advance, to secure a table.
Try the Specialties
Don't miss the signature roast suckling pig or roast lamb for an authentic taste.
Cave Dining
Consider requesting a table downstairs for a unique, cave-like dining experience.
Visit Off-Peak
For a more relaxed meal, try visiting during weekdays or outside of peak dining hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, often far in advance, to secure a table.
Try the Specialties
Don't miss the signature roast suckling pig or roast lamb for an authentic taste.
Cave Dining
Consider requesting a table downstairs for a unique, cave-like dining experience.
Visit Off-Peak
For a more relaxed meal, try visiting during weekdays or outside of peak dining hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sobrino de Botín offers a unique dining experience steeped in history, recognized as the world's oldest restaurant. While many praise the iconic roast suckling pig and the historic ambiance, some reviewers note that the food, while traditional, may not always meet the highest culinary expectations, though service is consistently lauded as excellent.
"We planned a stop in Madrid just to visit this restaurant. I made reservations a year in advance, and it was so worth it! The service experience was top-notch from beginning to end. Our main goal was to try the succulent pig, and it didn't disappoint. (Simply delicious) I also recommend the sangria and the garlic shrimp. The calamari was not our favorite. We have had better, but it's just our opinion. Our server, Paco, was amazing. A genuine person! I strongly recommend this restaurant if you ever visit Madrid."
Faby Fischbein
"An unforgettable experience at the world’s oldest restaurant! We ordered the suckling pig and roast lamb, and both were absolutely incredible, perfectly cooked, tender, and full of flavor. The skin on the suckling pig was crisp, and the meat just melted in our mouths. The atmosphere is cozy and historic, making the whole experience even more special. Service was excellent and attentive. Definitely worth a visit when in Madrid!"
Lili Chin
"If I could, I’d award this restaurant six stars. Steeped in 300 years of history, this Madrid institution is a must-visit, and I highly recommend diving into its fascinating story before you go. From the moment you step inside, the old-world charm envelops you, blending elegance with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.
The service is nothing short of fine dining excellence. Our waiter was attentive, friendly, and made the experience feel personal yet polished. Menus are available in English if needed, ensuring accessibility without sacrificing authenticity. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the delightful dioramas displayed in the restaurant’s windows—whimsical and intriguing, they add a unique touch to the experience.
Now, the food. The garlic soup with egg and ham was a revelation—rich, flavorful, and so satisfying that I’m already craving it again. The cod was impeccably fresh, cooked to perfection with a delicate balance of textures and flavors. But the star of the show, as this restaurant is renowned for, is the suckling pig. The meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender, bursting with flavor, and crowned with perfectly crisp skin that’s worth the visit alone. For dessert, the cheesecake was divine—creamy, indulgent, and the ideal finale to an unforgettable meal.
Don’t miss the wine cellar downstairs, a treasure trove housing vintages older than your great-grandmother, adding to the restaurant’s storied allure. This is more than a meal; it’s a cultural and culinary experience that you simply cannot skip while in Madrid. Book a table, soak in the history, and savor every bite—you won’t regret it."
Nikole Young
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, often well in advance, due to the restaurant's popularity.
The restaurant is world-renowned for its roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado) cooked in its original wood-fired oven.
The restaurant boasts a historic atmosphere with old-world charm, spread across multiple levels including a unique wine cellar.
Sobrino de Botín was established in 1725, making it the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records.
Yes, some diners recommend requesting seating downstairs for a distinct, cave-like dining experience.
Besides the suckling pig, roast lamb and traditional Spanish desserts like cheesecake and flan are also highly recommended.
While not strictly enforced, smart casual attire is generally appropriate for dining at this historic establishment.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
The Top 7 Historical Sites In Madrid
El Sobrino de Botín, nestled on a cobbled street near Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, is the oldest restaurant in the world (and even has the Guinness World Record certificate proudly displayed in its window to prove it). The restaurant, which opened in 1725, has seen some illustrious figures walk through its doors. The artist Francisco de Goya worked there as a waiter while waiting to be accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, while the writer Ernest Hemingway would often take friends to sample Botín’s delicacy: roast suckling pig.
Best traditional restaurants in Madrid – Typical Spanish cuisine
The world's oldest restaurant (with a signed Norris McWhirter certificate to prove it) is still coming up with the goods after nearly 300 years. For all its popularity as a tourist destination, its nooks and crannies add up to an atmospheric – if cramped – dining spot. Botín turns out great roasts, including that old Spanish favourite, 'cochinillo' (suckling pig).
Dinner Hours in Madrid - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums
Yes, many Madrid restaurants open at 9 for dinner (some actually not until 9:30-I have a list), and madrileños won't even think about dinner until 10, BUT there are also some restaurants in the heavily touristed areas that do open at 8, such as Sobrinos de Botín, the classic madrileño roasting tavern, and La Barraca for paella.
The 12 best restaurants in Madrid
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Botín is officially the oldest restaurant in the world. It opened in 1725 and is renowned for its roast suckling pig and lamb, which are cooked over vine shoots in the huge oven that has been there since it opened. Also good are the clams and the baby squid in its own ink.
Madrid’s oldest restaurants and bars offer tapas, vino and history
The world’s oldest restaurant according to Guinness World Records serves excellent cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) and cordero asado (roast lamb) cooked in its original cast-iron wood-fired oven. A walk down the basement steps reveals a gloriously dusty 16th-century wine cellar.
Easter in Madrid is a revelation: You don't have to give up restaurants or shopping during city's Holy Week
Madrid’s Semana Santa does not have the International Tourist Interest designation that the Easter celebrations in Granada, Zaragoza, Crevillent, Orihuela, Medina de Rioseco, Medina del Campo, Avila, Palencia, Toledo, Viveiro or Ferrol do. But, while enjoying the Easter events that Madrid does have — several processions of hooded penitents and religious art both Thursday and Friday nights and Sunday’s tamborrada — I don’t have to give up restaurants, museums or shopping as Semana Santa tourists in smaller towns often do. Madrid celebrates Easter, but not so much that you can’t enjoy the culture that makes the city worthwhile to visit any time of year.
Best Tapas in Madrid – 10 Best Tapas Restaurants in Madrid
Botín is famously known as the world’s oldest restaurant, and does not disappoint when it comes to representing this title as well as the traditions of Spanish cuisine. Here you can indulge in their specialty cochinillo (roast suckling pig) and cordero lechal (roast suckling lamb) that is perfectly roasted in their 300-year-old ovens still burning hot to this day. The dining experience is one-of-a-kind, and you certainly feel like you’re a part of history when eating at the restaurant who’s tables have seen Francisco Goya, Ernest Hemingway, and Spanish royalty throughout the many years.
Best places to Eat in Madrid Recommended by a Local
Listed in the Guinness World Book of Records as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botin has been around and active since as early as 1725. That’s nearly 300 years of serving traditional food the right way, and the family owned and run restaurant still uses the same recipes that it always has. One of the most remarkable features of the restaurant is that the flame burning in the oven is alleged to have been burning right through from 1725, never to have gone out.
The Best Places to Visit in Madrid (Must-See Attractions)
Amid the political and social upheaval in Madrid over the last centuries, the Sobrino de Botín restaurant near Madrid’s La Latina neighbourhood has been consistently serving classic Madrilenian dishes since 1725 – making it one of the world’s oldest restaurants. Casa Botín was a favourite of the writers Graham Greene and Hemingway, while a young Francisco Goya briefly worked as a waiter. Despite its iconic status, the family-owned restaurant still offers good food at reasonable prices.
Traditional Restaurants in Madrid
This arch-traditional restaurant just off Madrid’s Plaza Mayor has a good claim to being not just the oldest restaurant in Madrid but in the whole world, having served diners since at least 1725. Its dining rooms, decorated in the austere Castilian style, have hosted luminaries of arts and politics from around the world. The specialty here is the best of Castilian cuisine, with special emphasis on suckling pig (cochinillo) and baby lamb roasted in a wood-fired oven.
Experiences in Madrid, Spain - Unique things to do in Madrid, Spain
For art lovers and history buffs, consider something similar to this Prado Museum visit, where you'll view masterpieces by artists like Diego Velázquez and Francisco Goya, followed by a traditional meal at Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world. If you'd prefer a food-focused excursion, you might enjoy an outing like this jamón ibérico workshop, where you'll learn about the curing process, and carving techniques, and savor tapas and wine with your host.
The 15 Best Restaurants in Madrid
The world’s oldest continuously open restaurant, founded in 1725 as an inn by French cook Jean Botín and his Asturian wife. A couple of minutes’ walk south of the Plaza Mayor, this local institution is renowned for three things: its old-world 18th century decor, its succulent roast meats, and its literary connections. Inside, you can dine in the atmospheric bodega (vaulted cellar) or in the opulent dining rooms with heavy wooden beams and creaky floors.
Where to Eat in Madrid in 2025: The Ultimate Food Guide
Probably Madrid's most famous restaurant (and the oldest restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness World Records), Botín is an institution and an absolute must for foodies visiting Madrid. The restaurant was opened in 1725, and was a favorite hangout of Ernest Hemingway during his time in Madrid. The gorgeous restaurant is a museum in itself, which is why we include it on our tour of the best of Madrid: the Prado Museum & Botín Lunch Tour.
The historic centre of Madrid
One of the most popular addresses in the capital is the Sobrino de Botin, a typical restaurant serving traditional Spanish dishes, the oldest restaurant in the world opened in 1725. It is on 4 floors that this 16th century style restaurant with low ceilings and antique period decoration is located. Its characteristic wooden façade makes this restaurant a unique place where you can taste many traditional dishes such as cocido or lentils.
The 12 Most Famous Restaurants In Madrid, Spain
Considered the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records, Restaurante Botín, founded in 1725, is a culinary landmark in Madrid. Its fame extends across the globe, having been mentioned in literature by authors like Ernest Hemingway and frequented by countless celebrities over the centuries. Its rustic interior and wood-fired oven create an atmosphere that whisks you back in time.
The 11 Best Local Restaurants in Madrid
Sobrino de Botín, founded in 1725 and recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest operating restaurant in the world, keeps its centuries-old wood oven going to this day. Tucked away in Madrid’s historic center, it offers a glimpse into traditional cooking practices that have stood the test of time. Its warm, storied setting makes it a memorable spot for locals and visitors alike.
Insider’s tips
The world’s oldest restaurant is known for its delicious traditional Spanish cuisine that is cooked in the old Castilian way and has been awarded in Traveler’s Choice 2012 and in Forbes’ 10 Classic Restaurants. A must visit landmark of Madrid. Insider tip: If Hemingway and Goya were among the many notable diners in the restaurant, Botín must be doing something right.
Where to Definitely Go & Where to Maybe Skip
Botín is the longest continually running restaurant in the world. The restaurant is known for their suckling pig, which you can see being prepared through a small window in the back of the restaurant. Although it didn’t sound that appealing to me, I ordered the pig because it was “the thing to do.” Brooke opted for the steak and we shared a ½ pitcher of sangria.
Top Things to Do in Madrid
I personally have a weakness for roast suckling pig, and this oldest restaurant certified by the Guinness Records Book specializes in this dish. Sobrino de Botin was founded in 1725, and still uses the original oven. I also happen to like to the books of Ernest Hemingway, who frequented this place in the 1930s and wrote of the restaurant in The Sun Also Rises.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN MADRID | Omio
Since 1725, the renowned Botín restaurant has been serving up classic Spanish fare just a two-minute walk from Plaza Mayor. Over the years, writers and artists have made the restaurant their favorite, possibly because of its two star dishes, roast suckling pig and lamb. We’re not exaggerating: Ernest Hemingway even mentioned it in his book The Sun Also Rises.
Madrid Food Guide: Best Places to Eat
If you want to have a unique dining experience in Madrid, check out this award-winning restaurant in Calle Cuchilleros. Founded in 1725, Sobrino de Botín is the oldest running restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. It is mostly famous for its suckling pig, which is still cooked in the restaurant’s original wood-fired oven.
Beginner's Guide to Lunch in Spain
You’ll be surprised to hear that the longest running restaurant in the whole world is found in Madrid!. According to Guinness World Records, Restaurante Sobrino de Botin has been open since the 1700s and is still going. Here you’ll find some of the most traditional Spanish food in the world, due to the many years they’ve had to perfect their recipe.
Best Dining Bets in Madrid
Best of "Olde" Madrid: The Sobrino de Botín may be touristy these days, but the setting and atmosphere of the city's oldest restaurant (it claims to be the oldest in the world) more than compensate. Rafters, beams, and nooks abound, and the effective service is accompanied by some first-rate Castilian specialties, such as lechona.
Madrid Food Tour (Self Guided), Madrid, Spain
Dating all the way back to 1725, Sobrino de Botín holds the title of Europe’s oldest continuously operating restaurant—as recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. Originally called Casa Botín, it was founded by a Frenchman named Jean Botín and his wife. In the beginning, it functioned more like a tavern than a restaurant.
10 Top-Rated Restaurants in Madrid You Need to Try
Maybe you have read about Botín, quoted by Hemingway amongst other authors. And according to the Guinness World Records, it is also the oldest restaurant in the world. So, if you want to feel like the characters of The Sun Also Rises, free your hedonistic spirit and order the roasted suckling pig and a bottle of Rioja wine.
A Self-Guided Food Walk in Madrid
Our second stop on this walk, just near Plaza Mayor, is second to none in terms of culinary pedigree and continuation of service. The Botín restaurant has been in operation since 1725 which makes it the world's oldest working restaurant. Proving this fact is the Guinness World Record certificate displayed in the window.
Flavours from all over Spain in Madrid
They say that the best in Madrid can be savoured at Coque, Botín, Casa Pedro and Los Galayos. It’s worth mentioning that Castile and Leon is home to both lambs_ and suckling lambs_, which make for one of the most typical dishes of Castilian cuisine and an extremely popular choice during celebrations all over Spain.
24 Best Things to Do in Madrid
Recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest restaurant still in operation, Sobrino de Botin was first opened back in 1725, and equally extraordinary, is that the artist Francisco de Goya worked in Cafe Botin as a waiter while waiting to get accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts!
Our 10 Picks for the Best Restaurants in Madrid
Dating back to 1725, El Sobrino de Botín (commonly referred to simply as Botín) boasts the claim to fame of the world’s oldest restaurant. With nearly three centuries under their belt, it’s no wonder why they’re one of the best restaurants in Madrid!. The rustic interior will transport you back in time.
10 Must-See Historic Sites to Visit in Madrid
If you’re hungry, stop at one of the world’s oldest restaurants. El Sobrino de Botín opened in 1725. It was once the employer of a waiter named Francisco de Goya, who went on to become one of Europe’s most famous painters after quitting his restaurant job and studying at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.
Where To Eat in Madrid
Founded in 1725, this is the oldest continuously running restaurant in the world. It’s an upscale restaurant with a dining experience that is second to none. Honestly, the prices, which range between 21-40 euros, are a bargain given the wonderful service and ambiance.
20+ Unique & Fun Things to do in Madrid, Spain
When it first opened its doors in 1725, few would have guessed that Sobrino de Botin would continue to serve hungry patrons almost 300 years later… a unique distinction that has earned this famous Madrid institution an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Exploring the Culinary Delights: Popular Restaurants in Madrid
Established in 1725, Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness World Records. This historic restaurant offers mouthwatering suckling pig and lamb roasted in a wood-fired oven, providing an authentic taste of Spanish cuisine.
Best Traditional Spanish Food Restaurants in Madrid
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Sobrino de Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world. It was founded back in 1725, making it worth of such a title. Earnest Hemingway himself referred to their roast, suckling pig in one of his novels.
Best Traditional Restaurants in Madrid
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Sobrino de Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world. Founded in 1725, it’s a part of history and a tourist attraction in it’s own right. Many of the walking tours of Madrid will make a stop outside.
Best Restaurants in Madrid | Fine Dining in Madrid
Considered the oldest restaurant by the Guinness Book of World Records, and the best by Ernest Hemingway, Botín is a charming little restaurant that will cater to your appetite, and your desire for cultural immersion.[Learn more]
best restaurants in leon, spain
del León 16, 28014 Madrid, Spain - El Sur, Miranda, Taberna El Sur de Huertas, Tinto y Tapas, La Rollerie, Cacao Restobar, InClan Brutal, Botín, La Bodega de Los Secretos, La Cabaña Argentina Spanish, Mediterranean $$ - $$$.
60 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain + Tourist MAP
Sobrino de Botín Restaurant is one of the most famous and delicious places to go in Madrid. It’s a Guinness world record-holder as the oldest restaurant in the world, so you know you’ll get amazing authentic cuisine here.
A Complete Madrid Bucket List- What to see, do, eat and more!
..at the “Oldest Restaurant in the World”- Sobrino del Botín. Restaurante Botín was opened in 1725 and according to the Guinness Book of World Records, is the oldest restaurant in the world!
50 Best Free Things to Do in Madrid
Although you would need to pay to dine there, you can at least visit the outside of Sobrino de Botin, which, having been operational since 1725, is the oldest restaurant in the world.
The 8 Best Restaurants in Madrid
Open for several hundred years, Sobrino de Botín claims to be the world’s oldest restaurant, and stepping inside this cave-like medieval-inspired spot is like going back in time.
Dining at the Oldest Restaurant IN THE WORLD Madrid
As we strolled down the quaint street where Botín has been located for almost three centuries; we arrive to a charming restaurant front, in all its old world mystique.
Dining at Hemingway's table at the oldest restaurant in the world
So we went online to find a place….and up popped Restaurante Sobrino de Botín. It may be very, very old – 300 years old to be precise – but it is online.
Things to Do in Madrid, Spain
If you are a literary lover, you will relish dining at Sobrino de Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world, once frequented by Ernest Hemingway and F.
Romantic Things to do in Madrid: Top Experiences for Couples
Botín Restaurant: Share a meal at the world’s oldest restaurant, famous for its roast suckling pig and intimate atmosphere in its historic wine cellar.
25 Fun Things to Do in Madrid Spain for First-Timers
Having a meal at Sobrino de Botín is a fun way to check off a major Madrid bucket list item, as it’s said to be the oldest restaurant in the world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit