So you have decided to study abroad in Spain and every euro counts. It is no secret that college students are broke, and when you are away from home for the first time, it can be even harder to save your money. Scrimping and saving a little here and there to grab lunch at one of Spain’s excellent eateries, however, may well prove a necessary expense. Here are a few of the best, and cheapest, little hot spots you can find in Madrid for the hungry student on a budget…
Pantumaca
Pantumaca is just what you are looking for if you want some good, homey food on a budget. At Mayor, 31 (tel: 91-365-77-77) you can find some really great, filling meals starting at a scan ten euros a plate.
La Biotika
You can find La Biotika at Amor de Dios, 3 or call them at 91-429-07-80. La Biotika is known for their reasonably priced vegetarian menu. That may not sound so fancy, but when you see what they actually have on display, you may be surprised.
Restaurante Artemisa
If you want the real deal Spanish cuisine, do not even bother going to Restaurante Artemisa until you have learned a little bit of Spanish, as this is mainly a non-English speaking venue for the locals. You can find them at Calle Tres Cruces off Gran Via. You get a daily menu with something different every day which will include three courses with coffee and wine, all for just eight euros.
The real fun of visiting Madrid, however, is discovering new places for yourself. A one way bus trip in Madrid costs one Euro for most trips, which comes out to about a buck and some change in American dollars, so even if you are on a budget, if you can afford to grab a bite at one of the incredible cafes or diners in the city, you should have no problem scraping together the change to get downtown and go exploring.
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2790919-madrid_restaurants-i;_ylt=As7lxVfAKNx4r3fwGeMIqjnoFWoL