El Ventorrillo

La Latina / Lavapiés, Madrid –

Most of the historical center of Madrid was built on a high plateau amid a network of lush green gardens and parks – and situated on a corner in the southern part of that plateau, far away from the city’s constant swarm of tourists, is a little café called El Ventorrillo.

Although the small, indoor bar is rather nondescript and mostly devoid of patrons, one need only step outside to see the groups of friends and madrileño families gathered on the outdoor terrace across the street.

Nestled among lovely trees and a carpet of foliage that spills down the side of the plateau, the terrace draws patrons of all ages who wander by to claim a table, relax, and marvel at the breathtaking panorama as waiters drift back and forth serving drinks and traditional Spanish tapas.

From this vantage point, customers have an unimpeded view of Madrid’s Royal Palace, its accompanying cathedral, the gardens of Vistillas in the valley below, and the distant, pristine mountains that surround the Spanish capital.

For outdoor dining and cocktails amid magnificent surroundings, El Ventorrillo is hard to beat.