Gourmet Experience and the El Corte Inglés terrace at Callao: eating with a view of Madrid

Updated on October 9, 2026

The Callao Gourmet Experience occupies the top (9th) floor of the El Corte Inglés department store, plaza del Callao 2, at the top of the Gran Vía. This space brings together several food counters with varied cuisines and a terrace with views over the Gran Vía, the rooftops of the centre and, far off, the Royal Palace. Entry is free; you pay for what you consume, at each operator. It is a practical stop for a group with different tastes, but it is not a neighbourhood address: expect upmarket shopping-centre prices.

Highlights

Callao square

The Capitol building and the illuminated signs mark the entrance to the Gran Vía district. The department store is right next to it; the Gourmet Experience lift goes up to the 9th floor.

The terrace and its views

Spot the Gran Vía below, then the rooftops of the centre; on a clear day the Royal Palace can be made out to the west. Terrace seats fill up at sunset, especially on summer evenings.

The counters of varied cuisines

The venue brings together several brands (traditional Spanish cooking, pizza, burgers, Japanese food, ice cream, pastries, cocktails). The list of operators changes: check the welcome board on site rather than an old list.

Pintxos and tapas

Several counters serve small portions, handy for tasting without ordering a full meal.

Practical info

Tips

Entry to the space and the terrace is free, but drinks and food are paid for at central-restaurant prices: check the menus on display before ordering. For a sunset table, arrive early, as booking is not always possible. Avoid peak hours (1:30 pm to 3 pm, 9 pm to 10 pm) if you want a seat. The store's and the space's hours can change during holidays: check before going up. For a cheaper break, compare with a neighbourhood bar (see where to eat near the Puerta del Sol). The Gran Vía is described on the Gran Vía page; for other views of the city, read the best views of Madrid.