In the heart of Madrid, where the whispers of history still linger, you’ll find the Café Comercial, a haven that has embraced some of the most illustrious names in Spanish literature and culture throughout its century-long existence. Inaugurated on March 21, 1887, this café has been a silent witness to the conversations of notable figures such as Antonio Machado, Edgar Neville, Enrique Jardiel Poncela, Blas de Otero, Gabriel Celaya, and Gloria Fuertes, among others.
A literary retreat
Antonio Machado was one of the regular patrons of this café and had his reserved corner here. But he was not alone. Writers, poets, and renowned artists gathered at its tables to exchange ideas and enjoy the company of their peers. Even at Café Comercial, a chess club was formed, born under the shadow of the billiard table, a space installed on the first floor by one of its owners, Arturo Contreras Sepúlveda, who acquired the café in 1909.
From its early days, Café Comercial was already an elegant place, perfect for hosting concerts featuring instruments like the bandurria, piano, violin, and cello. Music was an integral part of its identity.
A second youth
Despite closing its doors in 2015, Café Comercial reopened two years later to experience a second youth. It retains original decorative elements but has also incorporated contemporary touches, such as inspirational phrases adorning its walls. The terrace, which has been accompanying patrons since 1894 alongside the newspaper kiosk, remains a lively spot to enjoy coffee and conversation.
A hub of culture and gastronomy
Café Comercial is Madrid’s oldest café and has been a meeting point for intellectuals, politicians, comedians, and civil servants since 1887. Today, it offers breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and cocktails daily, as well as a varied brunch on weekends. All of this is complemented by a rich cultural program that includes film screenings, musical performances, and literary presentations in the versatile first-floor space.
Over the years, its mirrors have reflected more than a century of political and intellectual life, and its tables have been a meeting place for writers, journalists, artists, bullfighters, and illustrious politicians, such as the Machado brothers, Jardiel Poncela, Ignacio Aldecoa, Antonio Mingote, Berlanga, Celia Gámez, and many others.
Castilian gastronomy with a contemporary twist
Café Comercial’s culinary offerings, overseen by Pepe Roch, celebrate the traditional flavors of Madrid with a contemporary twist and high-quality local products. It offers two separate menus: one for the restaurant and another for the bar, featuring traditional dishes, tapas, rice dishes, meats, and fish. There is also an extensive selection of cocktails, wines, brunch, and a variety of breakfast and tea options, including the classic Spanish hot chocolate with churros.
Plan your visit
Café Comercial awaits you at Glorieta de Bilbao, 7, 28004, in the vibrant Chueca neighborhood. For more information and to discover their cultural events, visit their website: Café Comercial Madrid.
At Café Comercial, every cup of coffee comes with a chapter of Madrid’s and Spain’s rich history, and every conversation pays tribute to its literary and cultural legacy. A place where the past and present converge in a unique experience for all lovers of literature and gastronomy.
