About Us

Restaurant

ABOUT US

A Corner of Madrid in the Heart of Chicago

Amid the aroma of smoked paprika and the whisper of Rioja being poured, Little Madrid Tapas Café was born: an intimate homage to tradition, elegance, and Spanish passion. Founded in 2020—just weeks before the world paused—this restaurant not only survived, it blossomed.

“Francisco’s family recipes have been safeguarded for over 500 years, now reimagined to deliver an exclusive, authentic, and sophisticated culinary experience. Each dish is a journey into tradition, crafted with 100% organic ingredients imported directly from Spain.

Here, every dish is a story. Every croquette, a memory. Every evening, a celebration.

“Tapas are the expression of a lifestyle, in which everything is tested, there is a lot of talking, drinking in an intelligent way, and you come to the conclusion in small doses the world is wonderful.”

Founder and Soul of the House

Franciso F de Bolanos

A lawyer by training, a Madrileño at heart, and a citizen of the world by vocation. Franciso F de Bolanos has lived in over twenty countries, worked between New York, Europe, and Latin America, and cultivated a rare gift: blending diplomacy of the soul with culinary authenticity. Little Madrid was born from a dream. A deep desire to honor his hometown, to share the tapas he grew up with, and to offer Chicago a sensory experience where time slows down and only pleasure remains. Recognized by the City of Madrid and the Spanish Consulate, Francisco has not only won the palates of Chicago, but also its admiration. With a clear vision and natural elegance, he has turned his restaurant into a reference point, an experience, a secret locals whisper about. More Than Just a Restaurant Little Madrid is a place where flamenco pulses once a month, where the wine is chosen with wisdom, and where every detail matters. It’s the reflection of a man who traded courtrooms for kitchens—without ever compromising on excellence.

Real Stories. Real Impact.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 1112 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Jacoby Daniels 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cozy spot with great Spanish tapas! Been here twice now and definitely a fan. Lots of great gluten-free options. Wine list is great. Cocktails options are strong as well.

Can get busy on the weekends. Makes a great date spot on weekday night though.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrew Rundle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dood was spectacular, especially the squid ink paella.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kevin Richardson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Little Madrid is a wonderful neighborhood restaurant and a real find in Chicago. The atmosphere is warm, intimate, and welcoming, and the food feels genuinely Spanish rather than overly Americanized.

One of the things we appreciate most about Little Madrid is how consistently good the food is. We’ve been several times, and the quality is always there. Everything is thoughtfully prepared, flavorful, and served with care. It’s the kind of place where you want to order several dishes for the table and take your time enjoying them.

The service is always friendly and attentive without ever feeling rushed. Little Madrid has that increasingly rare combination of consistently excellent food, genuine hospitality, and a cozy neighborhood feel.

It has become one of those restaurants we know we can count on, and we always look forward to going back. Highly recommended.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nery Pelico 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buena comida, excelente servicio.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rosanna Solis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great food! Best Wine and Fernando (owner) absolutely fabulous
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Magali Olson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service, super friendly and the food top notch!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mayra Reyes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We can here for our wedding anniversary and we had a great experience. The food was excellent 👌 our server Jenni provided great service and was very knowledgeable about the menu. We will be back.