About this spot
El Refugio is one of the best spots in Malasaña, Madrid. Not a tourist tapas trap — this is where locals actually go.
💡 Tips before you go
- Lunch is 14:00-16:00, dinner after 21:00 — eating at 18:00 marks you as a tourist
- Tapas at the bar, not at a table
- The menú del día (lunch set menu) is always the best deal
- Tipping not expected — just round up if the service was great
Common Questions
Where is El Refugio?
It's in Malasaña, Madrid. Address: Avenida de Filipinas, 36
Do I need reservations?
Tapas bars: walk in and stand at the bar. Sit-down restaurants for dinner: book ahead, especially Fri-Sat.
About this page
Restaurant: El Refugio (El Refugio)
Cuisine: Restaurant
Location: Malasaña, Madrid, Spain
Source: Curated from local review platforms