Living in Madrid: Cafe Tour of Malasaña

It should come as no surprise that there is a slight bias when it comes to a love and appreciation for the barrio of Malasaña in Madrid. After spending the past two years getting to know the neighborhood, it has naturally become a personal favorite. Perhaps it’s the walkability, rarely needing more than ten minutes to reach a favorite spot, or simply the familiarity that develops over time. Whatever the reason, Malasaña has become closely associated with one of the best everyday rituals: good coffee.

In recent years, Madrid’s café culture seems to have grown noticeably. While ordering a traditional café con leche has always been easy at any local bar, the rise of specialty brews and iced lattes has added a new layer to the city’s coffee scene. Malasaña is certainly not the only barrio where excellent coffee can be found, but in this writer’s opinion, it remains one of the most enjoyable places to look for it.

At the top of my list is Ambu, located on the corner of Calle de Pez. With its bright interior and steady background chatter, it feels like an ideal place to spend a slow afternoon with a book. The coffee is consistently strong and flavorful, often featuring beans sourced from Guatemala and other parts of South America. Its central location means it’s usually busy, which adds to the energy of the space. The welcoming staff only enhance the experience, and for many visits over the past two years, it has remained a personal standout.

Another favorite is Pan y Pepinillos, just off Plaza San Ildefonso. This small, vintage-style café leans more toward a quick stop than a workspace destination, given its limited seating. Still, that compact size adds to its charm. The exterior window makes ordering from the street both convenient and visually appealing, and the atmosphere tends to feel friendly and relaxed. It’s the kind of place that seems perfect for a short pause during a neighborhood walk.

Finally, just beyond what some might strictly consider Malasaña, near Noviciado and across Calle San Bernardo, sits Mission. Operating out of two neighboring spaces, Mission functions as both a bakery-café and a modern brunch spot. It’s an easy choice when looking to pair specialty coffee with something more substantial to eat. Its proximity to the park also makes it a convenient stop before heading out for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

Of course, these are only three cafés among many in Malasaña, not to mention the rest of Madrid. This is simply one perspective, a small collection of places that have become personal favorites over time. Ultimately, part of the joy of living in or visiting the city lies in exploring and discovering the spots that feel like your own.