Chueca is situated north of Gran Via and between Fuencarral and Calle de Barquillo. Historically it was quite poor area but in the 80s it has converted into a gay area which with it has brought upmarket restaurants and bars. Despite the abundance of tacky gay and transvestite clubs it does have a few hidden gems and it’s actually quite a good place to come and drink.
This is a newly refurbished market that was built on the success of the Mercado de San Miguel. It differs from the more famous Mercado de San Miguel because it is a new building with a clean and trendy touch as opposed to the traditional market in the city centre.
At first glance it appears to be an Irish bar that is trying too hard, a closer look reveals that the dust is real and it’s not an Irish bar at all. It’s a historic bar from 1918 that hasn’t changed in all these years.
Don't be fooled by the cheesy sign outside. This is definitely not a German themed beer garden. It's a modern clean bar come restaurant. The best part is the terrace at the back. A wooden decked oasis in the heart of Madrid.
Looking for an oasis in the middle of the city? The Arabic decoration, cushions and low couches makes this is a great place to chill out and relax. They used to even put sand on the ground but I’m kind of glad they stopped.
This is the second place that Saporem has opened in Madrid after the success of the first one in Las Letras. It is more of a restaurant but does have a small bar at the front which is young, lively and hip.
Café Belén is an old traditional bar that is understated, intimate and subdued. The bar is split into two levels and is decorated with small marble topped tables and wooden details. The walls are lined with works from rising new artists that can usually also be purchased.
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