One of the city’s masters of modern gastronomy, chef Sergi Arola’s haute cuisine should not be missed on a trip to Madrid. Unlike the city’s other temples of culinary excellence that tend to be gilded in gold, his eponymous restaurant in the Chamberi district is a low-key, minimalist space with hints of Art Deco design. Order a mix of tapas for the table, or for the best experience spring for the tasting menu—both highlight a mix of French, Spanish and Catalan flavors and technique. The restaurant also boasts a 700-bottle wine list with top of the line handpicked choices.