Madrid
Madrid is often described by locals as a large village. Its historic barrios have grown into an interconnected metropolis without losing their individual character or leisurely neighbourhood pace. Taking a stroll from the stately avenues of Salamanca to the lively streets of Malasaña and the city’s warmth remains constant.
“Madrid is a friendly city that feels like home,” says Ventura Antequera, concierge at Thompson Madrid. “It was built by gatos – Madrileños of several generations – and by people who arrived from across Spain. It welcomes visitors and potential new neighbours with curiosity, open arms and a smile.” Here, Antequera shares a few local recommendations, followed by Monocle’s own favourite addresses across the city.
Thompson Madrid
Set across two historic buildings near Puerta del Sol, Thompson Madrid brought the New York hotel brand to Europe for the first time. Its central location places much of the capital within walking distance, while the rooftop offers a restful escape above the busy streets. At Makáá, Mediterranean ingredients are cooked over an open grill and served with far-reaching city views.
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Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid
This handsome art-deco hotel stands directly on Gran Vía – well placed for theatres, shops and the architectural landmarks of central Madrid. Interiors take their cues from the city’s energetic character especially accompanied with such impressive views. A highlight comes during the warmer months, when rooftop restaurant El Jardín de Diana serves cocktails and Spanish-inspired dishes overlooking the capital’s skyline.
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Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid
Located on the Paseo de la Castellana, Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid sits between the city’s financial district and the elegant neighbourhood of Chamberí. Its restrained rooms make a comfortable base for work or leisure, while its culinary credentials are well-celebrated: Dani García’s two-Michelin-starred Smoked Room combines Japanese influences with cooking over fire in an intimate setting.
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Plaza de la Villa
Despite its scale, Madrid retains the official title of villa rather than city – a distinction that feels particularly fitting in this peaceful square. Surrounded by historic palaces, Plaza de la Villa offers an evocative glimpse of the capital’s past. Visit towards the end of the day, when the crowds thin and its quieter, village-like character shifts into gear.
Manero
Madrid has no shortage of tapas bars but Manero brings a particularly polished touch to the tradition. Its two addresses in the city combine richly detailed interiors with a menu that draws confidently from across wider Spain. Order a selection for the table, including one of its signature savoury brioches, before settling in for the kind of long meal that Madrid does so well.
Monocle’s top picks…
Bars and restaurants
Café Comercial, Malasaña
Every facet of city life swirls together at the historic Café Comerical, from retirees reading the morning paper to rowdy youngsters and impromptu business meetings. The two-storey restaurant has held a special place in the hearts of Madrileños since 1887, which is why the city breathed a sigh of relief when it was revived by a collective of hospitality honchos in 2017. Split between a front bar, streetside terrace and busy dining rooms on both levels, expect reimagined Spanish dishes, smartly dressed waiters and plenty of people-watching.
Tramo, Prosperidad
This restaurant showcases its fresh vision at every turn. Designer Andreu Carulla repurposed a post-industrial space in collaboration with studio SelgasCano to create an eco-auditorium that offers a sustainable blueprint for the future. Innovative fixtures include a cooling mist system to combat Madrid’s dry summer air. The fare is Madrileño at heart, featuring seasonal dishes. Try the flat-iron sea bass or the grilled artichokes.
Restaurante Sacha, Chamartín
Chef Sacha Hormaechea was always destined to helm his parents’ revered bistro, which they named after him in 1972. Today he carries on his family’s legacy and serves quality cuisine, while maintaining a reputation as a charismatic host and devout lover of fresh produce. Its acclaim speaks for itself – Spain’s top chefs can often be found tucking into a meal at Sacha’s on their days off.
Norman Foster Foundation, Chamberí
It’s hard to ignore the abundance of artefacts on show here, from Le Corbusier’s 1927 Avions Voisin C7 car to a large section of the Berlin Wall. But Foster’s eponymous foundation’s raison d’être goes beyond a celebration of architecture and art history. With a mission to promote futurism, the refurbished 1912 palace and its gleaming new pavilion represent past and present. “Paving an optimistic path is about engaging and empowering young minds,” says Foster. Containing more than 70,000 objects and illustrations, the foundation is accessible to visitors by appointment.
