Savvy Seven: Coffee Shop Edition

If there's one thing that you should know about me, it's that I love coffee shops. Most people have budgets for shopping or concerts or fruity little drinks. Me? I have a section specifically for coffee.

Fortunately for me and unfortunately for my budget, the coffee shop scene in Madrid is fantastic. As your local connoisseur, today I want to share seven of my favorite coffee shops that I've been to (and, I must confess, frequented) so far in Madrid!

Before continuing, I want to share some of the factors that have influenced my experiences at each of these shops. This is what we will highlight with each one: coffee (duh), food, laptop friendliness, neighborhood/location, and price. Of course, I'll sprinkle in some personal anecdotes—this is a blog, after all. Whether you're visiting Madrid for a day or you're moving here for a while, this will help you curate your caffeination experience!

1. Naji Specialty Coffee

Coming in at the top of all the coffee shops in Madrid is Naji Specialty Coffee. This place truly amazes me. It’s a cozy shop that’s always busy, yet Naji, the namesake and owner, is kind, welcoming, and makes every latte by hand. He is eager to share his story and work with the world—perhaps knowing the heart behind the latte is what makes it so incredible. While it’s known for its Pistachio Latte, out of all my visits and tastes, the Vienna is my personal favorite. There are little bites to eat as well, all of which are just as fresh as the lattes. You should never skip Naji!  

Vibe: home away from home

Neighborhood: Chueca 

Price: on the more expensive side

Laptop friendliness: if there’s space available 

2. Sood Coffee 

This is my roommates’ and I’s local go-to, since it’s near where we live and the staff is very kind. This small coffee shop boasts funky cups, good music, and chill vibes. I always order café con leche here, as their base roast is simple and delicious. They have solid pastry options if you go earlier in the day, but I love their Pastrami Sandwich. It’s a great option if you feel like getting your coffee para llevar and walking through El Retiro, a lovely park in the middle of Madrid. 

Vibe: downtown chill 

Neighborhood: Retiro

Price: Food is expensive, coffee is pretty fair 

Laptop friendliness: specific tables on weekdays, and you have to purchase a certain amount

3. James Tweed Specialty Coffee

Looking for a unique coffee experience? James Tweed is just the place for you. It’s a to-go only coffee counter hidden in the back of a magical antique store, thus transporting you to another space in time. They had delicious flavored lattes: I got the salted caramel and my friend got the pumpkin spice—both were phenomenal. The actual antique store is rather expensive, but boasts high-quality and beautiful antiques. If you want a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll find a moment of renewal here. 

Vibe: dark academia

Neighborhood: Centro

Price: a little expensive

Laptop friendliness: N/A (since you can’t sit)

4. Mandolina Café, Libros, y Talleres

Now this is a hidden gem. Just southeast of the city center, you will find a rather unassuming little bookstore with welcoming staff and lovely coffee. There’s a large basement area—plenty of seating—that sometimes boasts poetry and live music nights. I ordered a latte and their roast was divine: light, smooth, and had floral essence to it. Their pastries were just as delicious and fresh. I can’t wait to go back here soon! 

Vibe: colorful minimalism 

Neighborhood: Arganzuela 

Price: very fair, honestly cheap with the size of the drink 

Laptop friendliness: unclear, but looked work friendly in some capacity 

5. Onana Coffee

This is a classy spot right in the heart of the Goya shopping area—lots of things to do, and lots of people-watching opportunities. This small spot packs a powerful punch. I ordered an incredible chai latte that was served in a funky mug, which honestly made my day. They also have acaí bowls and various pastry options that are freshly made. 

Vibe: clean coastal 

Neighborhood: Salamanca 

Price: a little expensive, but not bad; food is more expensive because its fresh

Laptop friendliness: weekdays and certain tables 

6. God Café

This is where dark tones meet surfer energy: fun music, plenty of nooks to sit, and a large coffee bar. There’s plenty of seating in this two-story coffee shop, and plenty of yummy coffee to go around. I got a vanilla latte, which I hadn’t had in a while because flavored lattes can be hard to come by here (most people just get the café con leche). I didn’t try the food, but it looked delicious when they were serving it to the people around me. This is a particularly great spot if you’re getting coffee with a group! 

Vibe: surfer grunge

Neighborhood: Chamberí Malasaña 

Price: very fair / normal 

Laptop friendliness: multiple laptop-friendly tables, but are in high demand since it’s near the universities - get there early if you want a seat

7. Café del Art 

If you’re a plant lover, the decorations alone will enchant you with coffee shop #7. They have a rather extensive variety of coffee, juice, and matcha options, as well as various food options. It’s a large establishment with plenty of couches and tables to enjoy their menu. Honestly, though, the aesthetic of the place is the best part. 

Vibe: plant mom, cottagecore 

Neighborhood: Centro 

Price: coffee is fair, food is more expensive  

Laptop friendliness: one large, shared table to work at 

Honorable Mentions

Not quite the Savvy Seven, but certainly worth mentioning! 

• Faraday 
• Hola Coffee Lagasca
• Brutal Specialty Coffee 
• Hey My Coffee - Sol 
• Mansilla Libro y Café
• Religion Coffee Shop 

May you stay caffeinated as you experience the wonders of this beautiful city that I call home. ¡Buen aproveche!