The Oldest Restaurant in the World
The video above was commissioned by Food Insider, and I shot it last year. It was recently published on their YouTube channel.
Madrid is home to hundreds—if not thousands—of historical landmarks, but one of the most iconic is Sobrino de Botín. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest restaurant in the world, it stands out among others that claim similar titles, some even dating back thousands of years. What sets Botín apart? Since its founding in 1725, it has never closed its doors, moved locations, or changed its name—a continuous legacy unmatched by others.
Interestingly, the building that houses Botín began as a lodge in the 16th century before transitioning into a restaurant. Historical records suggest there was another Sobrino de Botín a few blocks north of its current location on Calle de los Cuchilleros, which later closed in the 20th century.
The restaurant is steeped in fascinating legends, including one that claims the master painter Francisco de Goya worked here briefly as a teenage dishwasher.
If you visit, you absolutely must explore the cellars downstairs. These ancient tunnels, once part of a labyrinth used by the royal court to move discreetly, offer a glimpse into Madrid’s hidden history.
While some may argue that Segovia has better suckling pig, Sobrino de Botín offers far more than its menu (which, by the way, is excellent). The restaurant’s history alone is worth savoring. With just a little imagination, you can picture yourself dining here 300 years ago, enjoying cochinillo and wine, much like Hemingway did. Perhaps he felt the same nostalgia—who wouldn’t? A visit to Madrid without stopping at Botín is simply incomplete. But hey, if you miss it, you’ve got the perfect excuse to return!
