A Week of Eats in Madrid

Episode 3 (8 Must-Try Spots for Sweet Treats & Café Lovers)

Exploring Madrid’s food scene has quickly become one of my favorite parts of studying abroad. The city is full of charming cafés, aesthetic bakeries, and unique spots that make every day feel like a new adventure. This week’s roundup leans sweet — with plenty of matcha, pastries, and cozy cafés — but there’s something here for every mood. If you’re looking for where to eat in Madrid as a student, this list is a great place to start.

Brunch & Cake

A Pinterest-perfect café with beautiful interiors and an equally beautiful menu. I ordered the egg-avocado sandwich and a salted caramel brownie for around 15 euros. The sandwich was fresh, flavorful, and super satisfying, while the brownie was rich, fudgy, and absolutely worth ordering. A great spot for brunch or a sweet pick-me-up.

                                                                                     Beautiful brunch at Brunch & Cake

Re

Re focuses on healthier versions of classic baked goods, without sacrificing flavor. I tried the sugar-free pistachio banana bread and one of their chocolate-covered dates. Both were delicious and not overly sweet. The shop is aesthetic and cozy, but seating is limited — so it’s perfect for a quick visit or takeaway.

Goconut

If you love coconut, this is a must-try when exploring the city center. For about 4 euros, you get a coconut shell filled with creamy coconut ice cream and toppings of your choice. It’s refreshing, light, and a fun sweet treat to enjoy on a warm Madrid afternoon.

Yoyogi Coffee

A calm and cozy café ideal for chatting with friends or getting some work done. I ordered a matcha power ball and a matcha blondie for 7 euros. The blondie was the highlight — soft, sweet, and one of the best matcha treats I’ve had in Madrid. Highly recommend trying it if you’re a matcha fan.

                                                                                        Yoyogi atmosphere

GYO GYO

For dumpling lovers, this spot is a must. I ordered the zucchini gyozas and the mushroom-truffle gyozas (around 14 euros total). Both were flavorful, but the truffle option paired with their house sauce was truly standout. A great savory stop if you want a break from desserts.

                                                                               Different types of gyoza and appetizers

Feliz Coffee

A perfect rainy-day café. I tried the vegan chocolate bread for 4.5 euros, and it was incredibly rich and chocolatey. One tip: the café has separate sit-down and takeaway locations, so double-check which one you’re heading to!

Coco House

One of the cutest brunch spots in Madrid. I ordered the colorful açaí bowl for 12 euros — beautifully presented and full of flavor. The service was friendly, the atmosphere was warm, and the menu has something for everyone. It gets busy on weekends, so arriving early is best.

                                                                                     Coco House Acai Bowl

Obrar Madrid

A peaceful, no-laptop café perfect for slowing down. I ordered the raspberry cream croissant, which had a flaky exterior and a creamy, balanced filling. It’s one of the most unique pastries I’ve tried in Madrid and makes the perfect solo date or catch-up spot.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for brunch, pastries, matcha, or a cozy place to unwind, Madrid has endless options — and this week’s favorites all highlight the charm of eating your way through the city. Supporting local cafés has made my study abroad experience even richer, and I’m excited to keep exploring.

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for Episode 4 for more Madrid food finds and work-abroad adventures.