Trendy areas, Madrid

The Plaza of Chueca and the streets around are one of the most picturesque areas in Madrid. Some time ago this area was one of the poorest and marginal spots of the city center, however, in the 80´s, a movement called "La movida" passed like a hurricane through the Chueca district and dramatically changed culminating it with the arrival of the gay community. This circumstance happened at the same time of the design factor and most of the buildings are being rebuilt inside keeping the facades as it used to be.
Also is the place for most of the trendy lounge bars, shops, restaurants and more.
Today it is Madrid´s symbol of freedom and social revindication, and an example of harmonious community life and tolerance.

Dress Code: As you fancy

Many people consider the Chueca district to be the liveliest and to have the best restaurants. You can take metro line 5 to Chueca or walk if you are in the centre - it's just off the Gran Via. The area is a popular part of the gay scene in Madrid.

I went to this bar on one the last nights of my trip to Madrid. I realized that I had walked past it several times previously but never actually went inside. When I did I instantly realized that this is a place that I would definately revisit on my next trip to the Ibearian Penninsula! The atmosphere is very chic and the bar is romantically lit with candles and the brush of several different languages being spoken in the background. There are a variety of seating options. Aside from the normal tables and bar stools you can choose to sit next to your date on the over stuffed pillows while placing your drink order.

Dress Code: I think that you can wear whatever you want...
I was wearing a t-shirt, sneakers, and shorts.

I'd heard that this district of Madrid has a lively atmosphere, so I headed there for a drink.
Chueca is recognised as being the 'Gay Village' of the city. Once a drug ridden/ prostitution area, it is now one of Madrids most fashionable and Cosmopolitan neighbourhoods.

to be continued...

3 more images

This place is funky and vibrant... in the heart of the Chueca zone, where there's a buzz all around. Set in a long bar/restaurant, surrounded by warm orange backlights interspersed with zebra print walls, this is a great spot for a good bite to eat/share (great-tasting pastas, salads, generous pizzas and fantastic desserts to be tried, tested and of course shared!!)... of course if you prefer to stick to the drinks, the cocktail menu is well recommended... sit back in the lounge sofas and low tables and listen to the tunes spinning out from the DJ of the night.

A great place for people watching, a nice opportunity for a seat and chat with some space which is rare in most bars in Madrid.

Nachos are to be avoided here, as they are quite disappointing value and you can find much better in the neighbouring mexican restaurants, a couple of streets away.

Food served until 02h00, copas (drinks) until 03h00

Copas: 6€
Cocteles: 8€

Free wi-fi connection is also available here.

Dress Code: Be Yourself!!

4 more images

Wow! What A place... Currently "The" place to be seen in Madrid. Located at the former Reina Victoria Hotel (basically a hip rebranding by Sol Melia Hotels) and dominating Plaza De Santa Ana lies the rooftop bar at "ME By Melia".
Seven floors up and decked out in sumptous furniture, featuring cosy enclosed sofas in neutral fabrics and rustic effects... all on different terraced levels. Great views over the city and and wonderful place to sit and sip cocktails whilst people-watching... ermmm, oh yeh, very sexy bar staff to serve you those cocktails too.
Not cheap for drinks but you're paying for location here also. Do it... an amazing place, well worth the money.
I had a sneak look in the day too... see the other 4 pics!!!

During the daytime, this is a trendy looking cafe and bar. But at night (after 10pm), the downstairs transforms from a lounge-ish area to a dance area.

The website as of Feb 2007 is down but below I've linked to an archive of the website from last year so you can get a feel of the place.

At the Sorroundings of Plaza Santa Ana and Calle Huertas. Here you can find people around their 30s, it's a high market area (prices are high for students to pub in this area) you have from Irish Pubs to theatre-cafes, live Jazz performances, Tapas and even a Hawaian Restaurant.

Dress Code: Well dresed and leave your snickers in your backpack.