Art Bakery & Gourmet is in the top ten most beautiful cafes in Spain
Discovering Spain’s Most Beautiful Cafes: A Design and Food Critic’s Journey
Spain is a country that effortlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights. As a design and food critic, I embarked on a journey to explore some of the most beautiful cafes across Spain. Each cafe offers a unique experience, combining stunning design with delectable menus. Here are my top ten picks, along with personal anecdotes and insights.
Café de Oriente (Madrid)
Design
Nestled near the Royal Palace, Café de Oriente is a gem that exudes elegance and sophistication. The vaulted rooms and beautiful terrace provide a grand ambiance, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The blend of classic and modern styles creates a timeless atmosphere that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
Menu
The menu at Café de Oriente is a delightful mix of traditional Spanish dishes and modern cuisine. I highly recommend the jamón ibérico and seared scallops. The desserts, especially the warm cheese cake and dark chocolate soufflé, are simply divine. One sunny afternoon, I found myself savoring a cup of coffee on the terrace, with the Royal Palace as my backdrop – a moment of pure bliss.
Café Gijón (Madrid)
Design
Café Gijón, a cultural landmark since the 1880s, is steeped in literary and artistic history. Located on Paseo de Recoletos, this cafe has a classic, old-world charm. The spacious terrace and interior filled with historical artifacts make it a haven for those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia.
Menu
The menu features traditional Spanish fare such as croquetas de jamón and callos. The homemade desserts, like tarta de queso and tarta de manzana, are a must-try. During one visit, I struck up a conversation with a local artist who shared stories of the cafe’s vibrant past, adding a layer of richness to my experience.
La Bicicleta Café (Madrid)
Design
Situated in the trendy Malasaña neighborhood, La Bicicleta Café is a hip, industrial space with exposed brick walls and bicycle-themed decor. The cozy seating areas are perfect for working or relaxing, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Menu
Known for its excellent coffee, the menu also includes vegan and vegetarian options like chickpea curry and vegan ricotta on toast. The brunch items, sandwiches, and pastries are equally impressive. I remember spending a rainy afternoon here, sipping on a perfectly brewed cappuccino while watching the world go by – a simple pleasure that felt incredibly special.
Café del Jardín (Madrid)
Design
Located within the Museum of Romanticism, Café del Jardín offers a serene garden setting with vintage decor. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by greenery and historical artifacts, is particularly charming.
Menu
The menu features a range of coffees, teas, and homemade pastries. Light meals such as sandwiches, salads, and a selection of cakes and tarts are also available. One of my favorite memories is enjoying a quiet morning here, with the scent of blooming flowers and the gentle hum of the city in the background.
Els Quatre Gats (Barcelona)
Design
Housed in a modernist building designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Els Quatre Gats has a rich artistic history. Frequented by famous artists like Picasso, the interior is adorned with art nouveau decor and historical paintings, creating a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere.
Menu
The menu includes Catalan and Mediterranean dishes such as codfish fritters, trinxat salad, and steamed mussels. The local wines and desserts are also worth exploring. I once attended a live music event here, and the combination of great food, art, and music made for an unforgettable evening.
Satan’s Coffee Corner (Barcelona)
Design
This minimalist cafe in the Gothic Quarter features a sleek, modern design with a focus on high-quality coffee. The interior is simple yet stylish, with a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to linger.
Menu
Known for its exceptional coffee, the menu also includes breakfast items like traditional Japanese breakfast, pastries, and light lunch options. I vividly recall a morning spent here, enjoying a matcha latte and a freshly baked croissant while planning my day in the Gothic Quarter.
Federal Café (Barcelona)
Design
Located in the Sant Antoni neighborhood, Federal Café has a cozy, modern vibe with plenty of natural light and greenery. Inspired by Australian cafes, the design offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Menu
The menu features a variety of brunch items, including fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, and eggs benedict. Salads, burgers, and a selection of fresh juices and smoothies are also available. One lazy Sunday, I indulged in their eggs benedict and a refreshing smoothie, feeling completely at home in the warm, welcoming space.
Café de la Luz (Madrid)
Design
This charming cafe in Malasaña has a vintage feel with eclectic furniture and pastel colors. The cozy, living room-style setting makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed coffee or meal.
Menu
The menu includes a variety of tapas, sandwiches, and homemade cakes. They also offer a selection of cocktails, wines, and specialty coffees. I have fond memories of a late afternoon here, enjoying a slice of homemade cake and a glass of wine while chatting with friends.
Café Iruña (Pamplona)
Design
Established in 1888, Café Iruña features beautiful Belle Époque decor with high ceilings, chandeliers, and ornate details. The spacious terrace overlooks the bustling Plaza del Castillo, making it a prime spot for people-watching.
Menu
The menu offers traditional Spanish dishes, including a variety of pinchos, seafood, and meat options. Local wines and desserts are also available. One evening, I found myself on the terrace, savoring a glass of Rioja and a plate of pinchos, feeling completely immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Pamplona.
Art Bakery & Gourmet (Marbella)
Design
Art Bakery & Gourmet is in the top ten most beautiful cafes in Spain
Located in the Xarblanca neighborhood, Art Bakery & Gourmet has a modern, artisan feel with a cozy atmosphere. The stylish decor features a mix of contemporary and rustic elements, and the outdoor seating area is lovely.
Menu
The menu includes a variety of gourmet breakfast and brunch options, such as Eggs Royale, poached egg with smashed avocados and Serrano ham, and sweet cottage cheese gnocchi with raspberries. Freshly baked pastries, sourdough bread, specialty coffee, and delightful wines are also on offer. I remember a particularly delightful brunch here, not just for the food, but for a serendipitous reunion. As I savored the poached egg with smashed avocados, I noticed the chef making rounds, greeting guests. To my surprise, it was Tanya Novak, whom I had met a decade ago when she was just a trainee at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Bangkok. Back then, she was full of promise, eager to learn and impress. Seeing her again, now leading the kitchen at Art Bakery & Gourmet, brought back fond memories. We reminisced about our time in Bangkok, and I could see how her passion for fresh ingredients and creative dishes had only grown stronger. This personal connection made the meal even more memorable, leaving a lasting impression on both my palate and my heart.
Conclusion
Exploring these beautiful cafes across Spain has been a journey filled with delightful surprises and memorable experiences. Each cafe offers something unique, whether it’s the elegant design, the rich history, or the delectable menu. From the grand ambiance of Café de Oriente to the artistic charm of Els Quatre Gats, and the cozy, modern vibe of Federal Café, there’s something for everyone.
As a design and food critic, I find that the true beauty of these cafes lies not just in their aesthetics or their menus, but in the moments they create. Whether it’s a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, a lively evening with friends, or a solo afternoon of reflection, these cafes provide the perfect backdrop for life’s simple pleasures.
So, next time you find yourself in Spain, take a moment to visit one of these stunning cafes. Sit back, relax, and let the ambiance and flavors transport you to a place of pure enjoyment. Happy cafe hopping!
Isabella Marquez - design and food critic.