The central area is the most varied in Madrid in terms of price and choice of food. Indeed, there can be few places in the world which rival the streets around Puerta del Sol for sheer number of places to eat and drink. Around the smarter Ópera district, you need to be more selective, while on Plaza Mayor itself, stick to drinks. Unless we indicate otherwise, all these places are easily reached from Metro Sol.
Restaurante Botín is the oldest restaurant in the world, dating back to 1725. The excellent traditional Castilian food promises that it will continue its long run.