La Bardemcilla

Malasaña / Chueca, Madrid –

Iron-grated windows and a pair of simple round signs dress La Bardemcilla’s otherwise non-descript façade, giving little indication that the venue is the creation of one of Spain’s most famous thespians.

Despite being owned by the renowned Bardem family – Oscar winner Javier, siblings Monica and Carlo, and their mother Pilar – this cozy tavern and café is the antithesis of a Hollywood haunt.

Afternoons see mellow young professionals sidling up to the small bar in the front room to snack on olives and sip Spanish wine as larger groups head past a pair of Carnival-esque papier-mâché heads to the dining area in back.

Framed photos and other paraphernalia on the walls outline the careers of the Bardems, so it’s not unusual to hear feisty madrileñas cooing at a blown-up movie poster as they snack on tapas like Croquetas Jamón-Jamón, one of several dishes named after Javier’s films.

Although a great place for a quiet meal early in the week, the venue is popular with party-bound locals come Friday, when every table is packed with birthday parties, romantic couples, and hip clubbers working through multiple course meals like lemon-smothered calamari and stuffed peppers.

Chances of spotting a dreamy actor are scant at La Bardemcilla, but Before Night Falls or to end an evening in Chueca, it’s a Biutiful setting to Eat, Pray, (and) Love Madrid.