Arriving early to El Rastro Market one Sunday morning, I was wandering around before the crowds descended on the streets of La Latina. This homey little café and my wicked café con leche habit pulled me in.
If I had a dream living room, it would look like this. Flanked by white, Grecian-style columns, lush green plants wind their way along exposed brick walls, while the distressed wood tables, vintage glass hanging lamps and seventies-style leather couches make me want to settle in with a good book and stay a while. I hum along as a soundtrack of David Bowie, T. Rex, and The Rolling Stones plays quietly in the background.
Café del Art has, quite possibly, one of the most unique drinks menus I have ever seen. From Japanese infusions and beetroot cacao lattes to kombucha and everyday favourites, there is something here for whatever mood you're in. The welcoming staff take great pride in the quality of their drinks and use only the best raw materials from the most famous coffee countries. Café del Art is not only a great place for a liquid pick-me-up, but they offer delicious snacks such as traditional tostadas, carrot cake, or my favourite, sweet and flaky Portuguese tarts.
Café del Art is the perfect place to start your El Rastro Market day, but, be warned, you might never want to leave!
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
VETA is the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, so once you’ve had your fill of the Old Masters at the Prado, why not get off the beaten track?
by
Don’t worry about collecting and counting plates - there’s an “all you can eat” lunchtime menu, you can fill your boots for a very reasonable fixed price.
by
His favourite time seemed to be that magic hour when the sun is sinking low in the West and turns everything a golden pinky hue.
by
Each covered market has its own flavour; Chamberí I would say is high quality and traditional but also one that has adapted successfully to the times.
by
"Konnichiwa" is a Japanese street food restaurant in Madrid. Their specialty is the ramen with the egg, which they cook with a blowtorch at your table!
by
"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
by
"Harvey's Cocktail Bar" in Madrid makes me feel as if I've entered an American vintage speakeasy. Unlike new hip retro chains, this one feels authentic...
by
"La Hummuseria" is a vegetarian restaurant in Madrid made for hummus fans like me! My favourite's the one with mushrooms. Protip: say yes to the egg...
by
"Quesería Cultivo" is a cheese shop in Madrid where you can find a wide artisanal selection. My protip: do get some bread from two numbers down the street.
by
"Sala de Despiece" Madrid defines itself as "a bar with a kitchen and a great tasting of raw materials". Once I was there I understood.
by
"Bodega de la Ardosa" in Madrid is 'castizo' -- pure, genuine. This kind of bar is in danger of extinction, so enjoy it while it's still alive!
by
"Bosco de Lobos" in Madrid is 'a bar that serves Italian food in a garden. It's a brunch and meeting place...' My favorite though, is their 'library'...
by
243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 243 Insider Tips