Sobrino de Botín, Madrid - A red and white flag hanging from a lamp post
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Sobrino de Botín Madrid

4.3
·15k reviews·Madrid, Spain

Dine at the world's oldest restaurant, operating since 1725, famous for its historic oven and signature roast suckling pig.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Lunch

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdMedium
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Sobrino de Botín, Madrid - A red and white flag hanging from a lamp post

Sobrino de Botín Madrid

Best Time

Weekday Lunch

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine at the world's oldest restaurant, operating since 1725, famous for its historic oven and signature roast suckling pig.

4.3
(15k reviews)

"Experience history on a plate at Madrid's legendary Sobrino de Botín, where tradition meets taste."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Table in Advance

Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Book weeks ahead!

🐖 Portion Size Warning

The suckling pig is rich and filling; a portion is usually enough for one.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Cochinillo Asado

The Legendary Cochinillo Asado

Main Dining Rooms

Crispy, succulent roast suckling pig, a dish that has delighted diners for centuries. A true taste of Madrid's culinary heritage.

Historic Oven & Cellar

Historic Oven & Cellar

Kitchen & Cellar

Witness the ancient wood-fired oven that's been in continuous use since 1725, and explore the atmospheric wine cellar dating back to 1590.

Atmospheric Dining Rooms

Atmospheric Dining Rooms

Multiple Floors

Dine in one of the restaurant's historic, multi-level dining rooms, each with its own unique charm and ambiance.

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for This Historic Gem

Sobrino de Botín is a Madrid institution, drawing crowds eager to experience the world's oldest restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to avoid disappointment. Consider booking weeks in advance to secure your preferred time slot and soak in the history.

Embrace the Suckling Pig Experience

The star of the show at Botín is the cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). While a whole pig is a feast, a portion is substantial and incredibly rich. Be prepared for a unique culinary journey that's been a Madrid staple since 1725.

Best Times

When
Weekday Lunch
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Week Evenings
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#sobrinodebotin #madrid #spain OLDEST Restaurant in the World
@shophocho
130.1K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Book Your Table in Advance

Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Book weeks ahead! Reddit

🐖 Portion Size Warning

The suckling pig is rich and filling; a portion is usually enough for one. Reddit

Mi experiencia en EL RESTAURANTE MÁS ANTIGUO DEL MUNDO según RÉCORD GUINNESS! 🥇🐷 Se encuentra en Madrid, España. Se llama Restaurante Botín y fue fundado en 1725. 🇪🇸 📍C. de Cuchilleros, 17, 28005 Ma...
@canchicaneat
98.4K likes • 2M views
The oldest restaurant in the world @restaurante_botin @away #history
johnnymurtaugh
5.2K likes • 233.5K views

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Historic Interior

Don't miss the ancient oven and atmospheric wine cellar. TikTok

💰 Consider Lunch for Value

Lunch can be a more affordable and less crowded option. Reddit

Sobrino de Botín in Madrid is the oldest restaurant in the world, open since 1725! The food was amazing 🐷
khappygirl
501 likes • 8.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Table in Advance

Essential for securing a spot, especially for dinner. Book weeks ahead! Reddit

🐖 Portion Size Warning

The suckling pig is rich and filling; a portion is usually enough for one. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Historic Interior

Don't miss the ancient oven and atmospheric wine cellar. TikTok

💰 Consider Lunch for Value

Lunch can be a more affordable and less crowded option. Reddit

📸 Capture the Ambiance

The historic setting is perfect for photos, but be mindful of other diners. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sobrino de Botín is celebrated for its unparalleled historical significance as the world's oldest restaurant, offering a unique dining experience in a centuries-old setting. Diners rave about the iconic roast suckling pig and the atmospheric charm of its historic dining rooms and oven. However, some find the food to be pricey for the portion size and suggest it leans towards a tourist experience rather than a cutting-edge culinary one.

"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

"How can you pass-up the oldest restaurant in the WORLD? Seriously a fabulous place to dine and experience. It is a treasure that offers tours. It is a fast-paced, no-frills atmosphere. They are there to serve you a wonderful authentic meal with amazing history. We had many items on the menu, including the suckling pig and soup meal combo. It was worth the money. So tender and tasty. Everything was delicious even the sangria. Our dinner reservations were for 10:30 pm, after taking a day trip tour to Segovia and Toledo. We were wiped out but the atmosphere revived us with the amazing historical qualities and amazing food. Definitely make reservations on the website or by phone before you arrive in Spain. You won't regret going to Restaurante Botin!! I will definitely go back next time I go to Spain!!"

Tami Donner

"Sobrino de Botin, established in 1725, holds the Guinness World Record for oldest restaurant, and they have used that time to make food the right way! It’s very popular, so we could only get an 11:00pm reservation. When we walked in, there was a live band playing Spanish guitar. We were seated in the basement which had a dramatic ambiance. The staircase is steep and not ideal for those with disabilities but the restaurant was made 300 years ago, so you cannot criticize them! The service was excellent. The waiters are all wearing white jackets and serve you with old world elegance.

We had the signature suckling pig which was delicious! The skin was crispy and the meat was soft and juicy. We enjoyed it with sangria, mixed grilled vegetables and salad Botin as well. Before you leave, you can view the ancient wine cellar, accessible down another staircase from the basement. There are no lights and it is extremely dusty. I would not recommend touching anything for fear of picking up an ancient bacterial infection.

Overall, the restaurant is a piece of Spanish history with a classic dish and excellent service!"

Aneesh Vaghadia

What People Like

Historic ambiance
World's oldest restaurant
Roast suckling pig

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Richness of pig
Tourist-focused

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sobrino de Botín is centrally located at C. de Cuchilleros, 17, 28005 Madrid, Spain. It's easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Metro stations are Sol and Ópera, both within a 5-10 minute walk. Many bus routes also stop nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. TikTok

Yes, it's very walkable! It's situated in the heart of Madrid's historic center, close to Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. You can easily incorporate a visit into your sightseeing day. Instagram

From Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), you can take the Metro (Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, then transfer to Line 10 to Plaza de España, and walk or transfer again), an airport express bus to Atocha or Cibeles, or a taxi/ride-share. The journey typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and method. Instagram

Street parking in this central area is very limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you must drive, look for nearby public parking garages like Plaza Mayor or Descalzas. TikTok

If your hotel is in the central districts like Sol, Gran Vía, or La Latina, walking is a great option. Check a map, but it's likely a pleasant stroll through Madrid's charming streets. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Absolutely! Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends. Many visitors book weeks in advance to guarantee a table. You can book online through their website or by phone. Reddit

Sobrino de Botín is typically open daily for lunch and dinner. Lunch service usually starts around 1 PM, and dinner service around 8 PM. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can vary. TikTok

Prices can vary, but expect main courses to range from €20-€40. The famous suckling pig portion is around €32. While it's not the cheapest meal, many find the historical experience and food quality justify the cost. Reddit

While it's sometimes possible to get a table without a reservation, especially during off-peak hours or for lunch on weekdays, it's risky. To avoid disappointment, booking ahead is strongly advised. Reddit

There isn't a strict formal dress code, but smart casual attire is recommended. Most diners dress nicely to match the historic ambiance. Avoid overly casual wear like beachwear or athletic gear. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sobrino de Botín is world-renowned for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cooked in its historic wood-fired oven. They also offer other traditional Spanish dishes like lamb and various seafood options. TikTok+1

Many visitors find the suckling pig to be a unique and delicious experience, a must-try for its historical significance and crispy texture. However, some reviews suggest it can be rich and pricey for the portion size. TikTokReddit

Besides the suckling pig, popular choices include roast lamb (cordero asado), croquetas (croquettes), and various fish dishes. The sopa de ajo (garlic soup) is also a traditional starter. Instagram

Traditional Spanish cuisine, especially at historic restaurants like Botín, often focuses on meat and fish. Vegetarian options are limited, typically including salads or vegetable side dishes. Vegan options are very scarce. It's best to check the current menu or inquire when booking. Reddit

Sobrino de Botín has an extensive wine cellar, featuring a good selection of Spanish wines, particularly from regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero. They offer wines by the glass and bottle to complement your meal. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, you can take photos inside the restaurant to capture its historic ambiance. However, be respectful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography, especially during meals. Instagram

The multi-level dining rooms, the ancient wood-fired oven (if accessible), and the atmospheric wine cellar are prime photo opportunities. The exterior facade is also iconic. TikTok+1

Photography in the kitchen, especially of the oven, might be possible if you ask politely and the staff are not too busy. Some chefs have been allowed to take photos. Reddit

The lighting inside is generally warm and atmospheric, with a mix of ambient and traditional lighting. This can create beautiful shots but might require adjusting your camera settings for low-light conditions. Instagram

While general photography is usually permitted, avoid using flash extensively, especially in darker areas or when it might disturb other guests. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sobrino de Botín can be a fascinating experience for families, offering a tangible connection to history. The historic ambiance and the sight of the ancient oven can capture children's imaginations. While the menu is traditional, the cochinillo asado might be a hit with adventurous eaters, though its richness should be considered. It's advisable to book a table in advance, especially if you need space for a stroller or high chairs. Consider visiting for lunch, which can be a more relaxed and potentially less formal experience for families. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Sobrino de Botín is a historic landmark, it's not typically considered a budget dining destination. However, visiting for lunch can offer a more affordable way to experience the restaurant compared to dinner.Reddit Sharing a portion of the suckling pig or opting for other traditional dishes like croquetas or a hearty soup can help manage costs. Look for set lunch menus if available, though they are not always offered. The experience itself is the main draw, so consider it a splurge for a unique historical meal. Reddit

🥂 Couples & Foodies

For couples and serious foodies, Sobrino de Botín offers a unique blend of history and gastronomy. The romantic, historic ambiance makes it a memorable spot for a special occasion.Instagram Indulge in the signature cochinillo asado and pair it with a fine Spanish wine from their extensive cellar. While some food purists might debate its culinary merits against modern establishments, the sheer historical significance and the quality of the traditional preparation make it a pilgrimage-worthy destination for anyone interested in culinary history. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the World's Oldest Restaurant

Sobrino de Botín holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, a title it has proudly held since its founding in 1725.TikTok This remarkable establishment has witnessed centuries of history unfold in Madrid, serving patrons from all walks of life. Its enduring legacy is not just in its age, but in its commitment to traditional Spanish cuisine and its iconic wood-fired oven, which has been in continuous use for nearly 300 years.TikTok+1 The restaurant's history is so rich that it's even mentioned in Ernest Hemingway's novel 'The Sun Also Rises', cementing its place in literary and culinary lore.

The restaurant's structure itself is a testament to its age, with multiple dining rooms spread across several floors. The wine cellar, estimated to be even older, dating back to 1590, offers a glimpse into the building's past and adds to the unique dining experience.TikTok Walking through its historic halls feels like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to Madrid's vibrant past. This deep historical context is a major draw for visitors seeking more than just a meal, but an immersive cultural experience.

While its age is its primary claim to fame, Botín has also faced scrutiny regarding whether its historical status overshadows its culinary offerings. Some travelers question if it's a 'tourist trap' or a genuine gastronomic destination.TikTok However, many still rave about the quality of its signature dishes, particularly the roast suckling pig, which remains a consistent highlight for many diners. The experience of dining in such a historic setting, combined with traditional flavors, continues to draw visitors from around the globe. InstagramReddit

The Star Dish: Cochinillo Asado

The undisputed star of Sobrino de Botín's menu is the cochinillo asado, or roast suckling pig.TikTok This dish is prepared using a centuries-old method in the restaurant's original wood-fired oven, which has been burning continuously since 1725.TikTok+1 The result is a suckling pig with incredibly crispy skin and tender, succulent meat, a true delicacy that has earned Botín its international acclaim.

When ordering the cochinillo, you typically have the option of a whole pig or a portion. A portion is generally substantial and very rich, often enough for one person, though some visitors suggest it can be shared if you're ordering other dishes.Reddit The preparation involves slow roasting, which renders the fat and creates that signature crackling skin. The flavor is delicate and savory, a testament to the quality of the young pork and the traditional cooking method.

While the cochinillo is a must-try for many, it's worth noting that its richness might not appeal to everyone. Some diners find it overwhelmingly fatty or simply not to their taste, especially if they are not accustomed to suckling pig.Reddit However, for those who appreciate this traditional Spanish delicacy, the experience at Botín is often described as unforgettable. It's a dish that embodies the restaurant's long history and its dedication to authentic culinary practices. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Historic Dining Experience

Dining at Sobrino de Botín is an experience that transcends a typical meal; it's a journey through time. The restaurant spans multiple floors, each with its own distinct ambiance, from cozy, intimate spaces to more grand dining halls. The historic decor, with its traditional Spanish elements, contributes significantly to the atmosphere, making you feel as though you've stepped into a bygone era.TikTok+1 The ancient wood-fired oven, a centerpiece of the kitchen, is a constant reminder of the restaurant's enduring legacy and culinary traditions.

Navigating the different levels can be part of the adventure. Some diners prefer the upstairs dining rooms for their unique charm, while others enjoy the more traditional feel of the lower levels.Instagram The wine cellar, a historical gem, is also a fascinating area to explore, showcasing the restaurant's deep roots in Spanish gastronomy.TikTok The service is generally attentive, with staff often happy to share insights into the restaurant's history and its famous dishes.

It's important to manage expectations. While the historical significance is undeniable, some reviews suggest that the food, while good, might not always reach the heights of modern haute cuisine, especially given the price point.Reddit+1 However, for many, the overall experience – the history, the ambiance, the iconic dishes, and the feeling of dining in the world's oldest restaurant – makes it a worthwhile and memorable visit. Instagram

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