Tortilla de Patata: With or Without Onion? That’s the Question.

Some debates in Spain are eternal — Real Madrid or Barcelona Club, vermouth or wine, and of course: tortilla de patata, with or without onion. You’re either one team or the other, and there’s no middle ground.

Gabriela Yepez

9/1/20251 min read

a close up of a piece of food on a plate

The tortilla de patata, or Spanish omelet, has been part of our culinary DNA since the 19th century — born from humble ingredients: eggs, potatoes, and olive oil. Today, it’s both a comfort food and a gourmet icon. You’ll find it served at home on lazy Sunday mornings, as a pincho in neighborhood bars, and reimagined with finesse in Michelin-starred restaurants.

And then comes the other great debate — rare or well-done? In Madrid, some love it creamy in the center, others prefer it firm and golden. Both are delicious; both are authentic.

If you’re in Madrid and want to taste the real thing, here are a few local favorites loved by Madrileños:

At Crafted for Spain Boutique Travel, we believe food is the soul of culture — and the tortilla is Spain’s most delicious conversation starter.

So tell us: are you Team Onion or Team No Onion?