Diaspora Eats: 7 of the Best African Restaurants in Madrid

DIASPORA—The diaspora is brimming with a variety of restaurants that offer savory dishes that’ll  remind you of mom’s cooking.

In our Diaspora Eats series, we highlight these many eateries, and offer recommendations for the best African food in whichever major city you might find yourself in. 

Whether you’re looking for options to fit your dietary restrictions or you’re simply looking to stuff your face with quality eats, there’s a spot in the city that will cater to your palette. Below are 7 African restaurants to check out while you’re in Toronto.

Check out some of the best African food in Houston, London, New York, Paris, and Washington D.C., Amsterdam, and Toronto. 

Nuria

This Ethiopian restaurant located on Calle de Manuela Malasaña is a go-to spot for tasty, authentic Ethiopian cuisine. You'll get all the Ethiopian staples in a welcoming atmosphere. Taste their yebeg wot, we promise you won't be disappointed! Be sure to sample their tej (homemade honey wine). 

A post shared by @iconi_p on May 16, 2015 at 1:20pm PDT

La Cocina del Desierto

This North African restaurant has two locations, one on Barbieri Street and the other on Libertad Street. Not only is the food good but the atmosphere is cozy and transports you straight to the Magreb. Feast on some lamb coucous, tajin, and falafel. If you're not sure where to start, we recommend their tasting menu.

A post shared by Mónica Ordóñez (@monicaordonez_) on Mar 3, 2017 at 7:42am PST

Gonder

This Ethiopian restaurant is just minutes away from the lively Plaza Mayor. Order from their extensive menu of Ethiopian staples, and sample their lentil samosas.

A post shared by AndreaGrande. (@andreagrande14) on Oct 22, 2016 at 7:20am PDT

Baobab

Situated in Plaza Nelson Mandela on Calle de Cabestreros, this colorful restaurant serves the best in Senegalese cuisine from Thieboudienneto Maffe. It's one of the city's most popular African spots, and for good reason.

A post shared by Jose Marquez (@dj_jose_marquez) on Jul 18, 2017 at 11:24am PDT

El Mandela

This restaurant—meters away from the Opera of Madrid—offers a unique culinary tour. Taste their Djansang and beef stew, and if you're feeling adventurous tried their exotic zebra or ostrich meat.

A post shared by ElMandela - Restaurante (@elmandela) on Jul 19, 2016 at 7:37am PDT

 Dakar

This restaurant on Calle del Amparo, offers authentic Senegalese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Feast on some Thiep and Dibbi and don't forget to wash it down with some bissap.

A post shared by M†K (@_chini_ninja_) on Mar 6, 2016 at 7:54am PST

Restaurante Gibraltar

This by the Embajadores park offers tasty Moroccan dishes. Make sure to try their harira soup and their lamb tajine, We swear you'll be coming back for more!

A post shared by Jorge Lázaro (@don_jorgito) on Mar 5, 2017 at 4:49am PST