Breakfasts on Madrid's Gran Vía
Genia · Jun 1, 2024
Madrid's Gran Vía is a bustling hub of activity where a continuous stream of stimuli intoxicates every local and tourist. To experience it properly, arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and start with breakfast first.
Types of breakfast on Madrid's Gran Vía
The traditional Spanish breakfast
The Spanish breakfast is built on time-honoured staples enjoyed quickly at local bars. The typical experience includes:
- Coffee with milk (in a glass or cup)
- Fresh orange juice
- Toast with tomato and extra virgin olive oil (known as "pantumaca")
Madrid classics:
- Churros or porras with chocolate — loved by locals and visitors alike, found in century-old chocolate shops across the capital
- Tortilla pincho — the potato omelette is the very definition of breakfast for Spaniards, whether first thing in the morning or at midday
International and cosmopolitan breakfast
As Spain's most international city, Madrid offers breakfast options that rival London, New York and other major cities:
- Continental-style buffet — available at local hotels with hot and cold options, French pastries, Iberian cold cuts and made-to-order eggs
- American-style breakfast — pancakes with maple syrup, crispy bacon and scrambled eggs at several Gran Vía spots
The EatMyTrip experience on Gran Vía
At Calle del Barco, 8 (just off Gran Vía), EatMyTrip combines Spanish and Mediterranean culture with a fusion of international flavours and the Anglo-Saxon coffee-shop concept.
Signature dishes:
- Magical French toast — brioche with homemade strawberry compote, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, chocolate biscuit crumble and a candyfloss dome
- Turkish eggs with romesco — poached eggs on homemade romesco-flavoured yogurt, harissa noisette butter, herbs, dukkah and sourdough
- Choco Loco pancakes — Nutella and cream cheese, chocolate ganache, ice cream and fresh fruit
Average price per person: €18.00–€25.00, higher than a basic breakfast thanks to elaborate dishes, generous portions and high-quality ingredients.
Average breakfast prices on Gran Vía Madrid
- Traditional breakfast (neighbourhood bar / classic café): €4.50–€7.00
- Chocolate with churros: €4.50–€8.00
- Breakfast in a hotel / luxury café: €15.00–€30.00
- Brunch at EatMyTrip: €18.00–€25.00
5 recommended places for breakfast
1. La Primera (Gran Vía, 1)
Elegance and the best tortilla pincho. Set in the iconic Grassy building with one of the best views of the start of Gran Vía, this elegant, cosy spot serves a top-quality tortilla pincho. Suggested breakfast: potato tortilla pincho with a grilled croissant and fresh juice or coffee. Average price: €8–€15.
2. Zenith Brunch & Cocktails (Calle de Valverde, 28)
On a side street off Gran Vía, this vibrant spot is known for the Zenith Eggs, breaded poached eggs, an original preparation paired with specialty lattes. The atmosphere is young, dynamic and vibrant. Average price: €15–€22.
3. Gran Clavel (Gran Vía, 11)
Inside the Iberostar Las Letras hotel, this venue blends traditional Madrid with a trendy, cool vibe, recapturing the essence of the city's old taverns but with a modern, clean touch. The recommended breakfast is the classic Madrid combination: coffee with milk, fresh orange juice and toast with tomato and olive oil. Average price: €6–€12.
4. Celicioso (Gran Vía, 13 / Calle de Hortaleza, 3)
Specialising in gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions, this spot offers avocado toast options, fresh juice and healthy bowls. The main entrance is on Calle Hortaleza. Average price: €10–€18.
5. Chocolatería San Ginés (Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5)
A 5-minute walk from Gran Vía toward Sol, this historic spot has been open since 1894 and is a real institution. The essential order is chocolate with churros or porras at white marble tables that transport you to 19th-century Madrid. Open 24 hours a day. Average price: €5–€9.
Conclusions
Gran Vía offers such a variety of breakfasts that it caters to both traditional Spanish preferences and international tastes. Whether you're after a classic Madrid breakfast or a more exotic, international alternative, the area delivers quality at very affordable prices, considering it's the capital of Spain.