The 38 Essential Madrid Restaurants

"Right in the heart of the Literary Quarter, Chuka is hands down the city’s most successful ramen bar. American chef John Husby, who spent time at Momofuku in New York, knows how to please crowds with an umami-packed menu, which includes seasonal and daily additions. Start with some baos, which come stuffed with Korean fried chicken, soft shell crab, and pork belly. Then move on to the three types of ramen, which change throughout the year and always include a brothless option. Don’t forget to try the superb eggplant mapo, “fake” veal nigiri (served on bread instead of rice), and the pluma ibérica char siu. Book in advance; walk-ins are welcome but usually don’t get lucky with a seat." - Paula Móvil