Madrid's hidden gem bars include centuries-old taverns and modern speakeasies in equal measure. The 10 below show both ends.
Part of our 50 Best Hidden Gem Bars in the World listThis article is one chapter in our larger global guide. See the full pillar with every featured city.
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The 10 best hidden gem bars in Madrid
01 · Madrid
Malasaña
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Pre-Prohibition focus
Below a Malasaña tapas bar. Pre-Prohibition American cocktails.
Order: A Manhattan with their reserve rye
02 · Madrid
Letras
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Sherry only · No photos
Sherry only. No photographs allowed (an old Civil War rule, kept).
Order: A copa of fino sherry
03 · Madrid
Malasaña
$$
Train-themed · Hidden
Themed as a luxury train car. Ten seats, reservations only.
Order: Whatever the seasonal route serves
04 · Madrid
Malasaña
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In-house macerations
Macera macerates their own spirits in-house.
Order: Whatever's the most unusual house maceration
05 · Madrid
Malasaña
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Wine bar + cocktails
Hybrid wine bar and cocktail bar.
Order: A Spanish vermouth + a stirred cocktail
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06 · Madrid
Letras
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Tiled tavern · 1856
Operating since 1856. Beautiful tiled walls, wine on tap.
Order: A vermouth on tap
07 · Madrid
Malasaña
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Old tavern · 1928
Operating since 1928. Famous for the Yayo (vermouth + gin + soda).
Order: A Yayo, where it was invented
08 · Madrid
Letras
$$
Speakeasy · Modern
Modern Madrid speakeasy. Reservations recommended.
Order: A drink with Spanish vermouth or sherry
09 · Madrid
Sol
$$
1921 · Heritage
Operating since 1921. Wood paneling, antique furniture.
Order: A perfect Manhattan in the historic room
10 · Madrid
Chueca
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Late-night piano bar
Iconic Madrid late-night piano bar. Sing-along atmosphere.
Order: A simple drink + the piano sing-along
More Madrid hidden gemsThe full Madrid hidden-gem-bar index by neighbourhood.
See the full list
How Madrid does the secret bar
La Venencia is the historical pilgrimage. The Passenger is the modern theatrical option. Most peak between midnight and 3 AM.
