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. 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.”

Real Stories. Real Impact.

Founder and Soul of the House

Francisco F. Bolaños

A lawyer by training, a Madrileño at heart, and a citizen of the world by vocation. Francisco Bolaños 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.

Gallery

Recommendations

OUR BEST SPECIALTIES

Experience the true taste of Madrid in Chicago. Every dish is crafted with care — from smoky pimentón to a drizzle of olive oil — honoring Spain’s culinary tradition. Savor croquettes, share paella, or enjoy a late-night Rioja; every bite invites you to slow down and celebrate life, Madrid-style.

FROM OUR MENU

Tapas

Albondigas
20

Spanish meatballs, Castellana sauce, Spanish fries

Calamares Fritos
15

Crispy potatoes topped with alioli sauce on top.

Queso de Cabra al Horno (GF)
13

Baked goat cheese with tomato basil sauce

Croquetas de Pollo
12

Spanish-style creamy croquettes stuffed with chicken

Croquetas de Francisco
13

Spanish-style creamy croquettes stuffed with jamón ibérico

Patatas Alioli (GF)
12

Crispy potatoes topped with alioli sauce on top.

Chorizo a la Sidra (GF)
15

Sidra braised chorizo

Spanish Tortilla* (GF)
20

Spanish onion and potato omelette. Feeds four people

Morcilla con Pimientos (GF)
16

Rice blood sausage with shishito peppers

Pulpo a la Gallega (GF)
25

Boiled potatoes, octupus, pimenton de la vera, EVOO

Our food philosophy

OUR TIPS

Good food is simple, seasonal, and meant to be shared. At Little Madrid, every plate reflects our passion for authentic Spanish flavors — made to be savored slowly, with good wine and great company.