Welcome back! In this article, you will find the 10 best restaurants in Toledo, where you can savor traditional Spanish dishes, local specialties, and international flavors.
Toledo, renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, is also home to a vibrant food scene. From charming tapas bars to elegant fine dining establishments, Toledo is a paradise for food enthusiasts.
What to eat in Toledo, Spain
Toledo’s food culture is deeply intertwined with its rich history. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by various cultures, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors. Arab, Jewish, and Christian culinary traditions have all left their mark on Toledo’s gastronomy, creating a tapestry of tastes that reflects its diverse heritage.
When visiting the best restaurants in Toledo, these are only a few of the delicious dishes you must try:
- Partridge dishes. Whether roasted, braised, or served in a rich sauce, the partridge dishes are a must-try for locals and visitors. The most popular recipe combines a delicious touch of vinegar with aromatic herbs to enhance the rich meat of partridges less than 1 year old.
- Carcamusas. The combination of tender pork meat, flavorful tomato sauce, and a touch of peas creates a delicious and highly regarded dish. You can find “carcamusas” served as a tapa or as a main dish in all the most popular restaurants in Toledo.
- Cuchifrito. Succulent pieces of pork which are first slightly stewed and later deep-fried with garlic in olive oil until crispy.
- Pisto Manchego. This is one of the healthiest foods to try in Toledo. It is made of tomatoes, onions, eggplant, zucchini, green and red peppers, and olive oil. I usually prepare it with a fried egg on top and a crusty piece of bread.
- Manchego Cheese. For cheese lovers, this creamy and nutty sheep’s milk cheese is a true delight. It is the most famous and commercialized Spanish cheese outside Spain.
Top 10 Restaurants in Toledo
With so many outstanding restaurants to choose from, selecting my top 10 was no easy task. Each establishment offers a unique dining experience, showcasing the finest flavors and gastronomic traditions of the region.
For your convenience, my list only includes restaurants that are located in the city center, and easily accessible while sightseeing.
1. El Trébol
Address: C. de Sta. Fe 1, 45001, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 281 297
Average Price: €€
Exploring tapas bars is a must-do for food lovers and El Trébol is one of the most popular restaurants in Toledo. Since I discovered the “Bomba Trébol” tapa, this bar has become a compulsory stop on my frequent visits to Toledo.
The famous “Bomba Trébol” is a potato stuffed with minced meat, peppers, aioli sauce, and a spicy tomato sauce.
It is true that on my last visit, I had to wait for some minutes to get a table on the terrace, so I suggest you try to avoid peak hours.
2. Skala
Address: Cuesta de la Sal 5, 45001, Toledo
Phone: +34 610 469 956
Average Price: €
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on taste. In Skala you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. In my opinion, Skala is a must-stop for anyone spending a day in Toledo.
In fact, It is one of the best restaurants in Toledo to try some of the best local specialties such as “carcamusas”, Manchego cheese, or “pisto”. In any case, if you do not know what to order, it is very typical to ask the waiters for suggestions.
The portions are generous with excellent value for money. The place is not very big and almost always crowded.
3. La Orza
Address: C. de Descalzos, 5, 45002, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 223 011
Email: reservas@restaurantelaorza.com
Average Price: €€€
For those seeking an upscale dining experience, there are several restaurants in Toledo that blend culinary artistry with impeccable service. La Orza stands out for its elegant ambiance and innovative dishes prepared with precision and creativity.
The menu, although not very extensive, adapts to all tastes with a large selection of specialties. Among my favorites are the loin of Orza, grilled octopus, and roasted lamb. The atmosphere is pleasant, the presentations are beautiful and the service is unbeatable. What else can you ask for?
4. La Abadia
Address: C. Núñez de Arce 3, 45001, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 192 251
Email: reservas@abadiatoledo.com
Average Price: €€
La Abadia is another of the best restaurants in Toledo that is a must every time I visit the city. I usually have a beer upstairs first before dinner.
La Abadia is a hidden gem known for its cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering local cuisine. The place is very well decorated, especially on the lower floor. The size of the dishes is considerable so it is worth sharing the portions.
Among their specialties, it is worth mentioning the marinated deer tenderloin, the torreznos, and the oxtail croquette.
5. Ludeña
Address: Pl. Magdalena 10, 45001, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 223 384
Average Price: €€
Ludeña captures the essence of the region’s gastronomy with probably the best “carcamusas” in the city.
This is one of the most popular restaurants in Toledo among locals, especially to have some drinks and tapas before lunch. Consequently, and as the bar is not very spacious, the spot tends to get quite crowded, so you will need to put your best skills into action to catch the waiter’s attention.
However, the lively atmosphere and the delicious array of tapas make it worth the effort. If you want to experience Toledo like a local, Ludeña is the place to be.
6. La Fábrica de Harinas
Address: C. de los Reyes Católicos 5, 45002, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 283 549
Average Price: €€€
La Fábrica de Harinas in Toledo is a unique culinary destination that combines history, culture, and gastronomy. Housed in a renovated flour mill in the historic Jewish Quarter, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. In fact, the building is one of the best hotels in Toledo too.
The menu is characterized by a selection of local specialties that have been adapted to modern times without losing the essence of the traditional recipes. For a truly exceptional dining experience in Toledo, La Fábrica de las Harinas is one of my favorite restaurants in Toledo.
7. La Clandestina
Address: C. Tendillas 3, 45002, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 225 925
Email: restauranteclandestina@gmail.com
Average Price: €€€
La Clandestina is a hidden gem in Toledo that captivates diners with its unique charm and culinary offerings.
To be honest, I recently discovered this restaurant, thanks to a recommendation from a friend. It turned out to be a delightful surprise and has become one of my favorite restaurants in Toledo. Well, not just mine, but also a favorite among many others, as it has gained a reputation as one of the most popular establishments in town.
Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with innovative flavors. The Iberian Ham and sheep´s milk croquettes, the “canelón de morteruelo”, the cod, and the steak tartar are only a few of the delicious specialties.
8. Alfileritos 24
Address: C. Alfileritos 24, 45003, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 239 625
Average Price: €€
This restaurant is the perfect option to make a stop on your tourist route through Toledo. It is perfectly located a few meters from tourist attractions such as the Plaza de Zocodover and the Mosque of Cristo de La Luz.
Depending on the time you have available you can opt for tapas in the tavern or a full meal in the restaurant. You will find that both options are excellent.
With its innovative cuisine and stylish ambiance. Alfileritos 24 restaurant ranks in terms of prices on the higher end of my list of the top 10 restaurants in Toledo. However, in my opinion, it is absolutely worth it. The attention to detail in every aspect, from the presentation of the dishes to the attentive service, is evident.
9. Taberna El Botero
Address: Calle Ciudad 5, 45002, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 280 967
Average Price: €€€
El Botero restaurant in Toledo is a beloved culinary establishment that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine. It is one of the oldest taverns in Toledo, with a perfect location next to the Cathedral.
You will find a bar for tapas and cocktails on the first floor and a restaurant on the second floor. The menu is wonderful and includes not only the most traditional Toledo recipes but also delicious fusion dishes with Asian and Peruvian touches.
I have no doubt that El Botero is for many locals one of the best restaurants in Toledo. Some suggestions that will hit the spot are the “carbones de bacalao”, the dumplings, the deer tenderloin, or the tacos. It also has a wide range of wines.
10. La Casa de Damasco
Address: C. Sierpe 5, 45001, Toledo
Phone: +34 925 223 664
Email: info@lacasadedamasco.com
Average Price: €
Last but not least, La Casa de Damasco in Toledo is a culinary haven that transports diners to the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Located in the city center, this Syrian restaurant in Toledo offers an authentic experience with its traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
From aromatic shawarma to flavorful hummus and falafel, the menu is a delightful fusion of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. In my opinion, this is one of the best international restaurants in Toledo and a fantastic option if you are spending several days in the city and seeking an alternative to the local cuisine.
Conclusion
Toledo is a paradise for food enthusiasts. From traditional Spanish dishes to international flavors, the top-rated restaurants in Toledo cater to a range of tastes and preferences.
Plan your visit, savor the local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights of this enchanting city.
FAQ
Are there vegetarian-friendly options in Toledo’s restaurants?
Absolutely! Many restaurants in Toledo now offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Can I find international cuisine in Toledo?
Yes, Toledo boasts a variety of international restaurants, including Italian, Asian, and more, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. For example, La Casa de Damasco is an excellent Syrian restaurant.
Are there budget-friendly options for dining in Toledo?
Absolutely! Toledo offers a range of budget-friendly eateries where you can enjoy delicious meals without stretching your budget. Skala is one of the best affordable restaurants in Toledo.