BARS IN MADRID: Cafe Manuela

Bar reviews — By admin on September 18, 2009 12:00 am

Café Manuela
San Vicente Ferrer, 29
Neighborhood: Malasaña
Metro: Tribunal
Telephone: 91 531 70 37
Hours: 6:00 p.m.—12:30 a.m. daily

The Jazz Age was defined by decadence, and today Café Manuela, located just a block off of the Plaza Dos de Mayo in Malasaña, stands as a relic of this stylish era. Modern Madrileños stop by the fashionable bar and café to enjoy an array of imaginative cocktails and coffee drinks and the cozy, neighborhood café ambience.
Walking up to Café Manuela, you are greeted by a bright red exterior that is adorned with two, old-fashioned street lamps. Beneath this awning, a row of full-length French doors open onto an elegant scene. White marble floors and cream walls contrast with the plush, burgundy velvet cushions of the booths. Round marble tables are set in the center of the café, surround by ornate mirrors that enlarge the space and reach up towards coved ceilings. Gold based lamps with glass flower bud shades hang on the walls, casting a soft, yellow light against interesting photographs and the pleasant scene below. The palm plants looming next to the 1920s-style bar add an additional touch of luxury.
Although the stylish ambience marks Café Manuela as an old-fashioned gem in the city, the specialty cocktails, coffees, and other creative beverages also scream extravagance. Cocktails and coffees are mixed with top-shelf liquors, and many of the drinks are capped with natural whipped cream. On the extensive and adventurous menu, choose between a sumptuous Kir Royal (cassis and cava, 4 euros), the lavish Alexandra Brandy (brandy, chocolate liquor, and whipped cream, 6 euros), or an ice cold lemon sorbet with cava (5 euros). Don´t over look the coffees; the Malasaña sweetens up the hot beverage with whisky and vanilla ice cream (4.50 euros). Old reliables—wine, beer, and tapas—are also available, as well as coffees and cocktails without alcohol, natural juices, and ice cream.
Keeping with the Age of Decadence, 1920s jazz plays softly in the backdrop, yet these notes are often overpowered by the raucous laughter and cheerful chatting of Madrileños. A young to middle-aged crowd frequents this neighborhood café; sophisticated yet casual, it is a group that appreciates the weekly poetry recitals (Fridays) and live piano concerts. Further entertainment is provided by an unparalleled collection of board games that fill an enormous bookshelf—everything from Clue to Rummy to Trivial Pursuit. Partake in a healthy round of competition on a lazy weekend afternoon, or come to Café Manuela during the evening for a classy alternative to a night out.

PRICES:
Cocktails- 4-6 euros
Specialty coffees- 4-5 euros
Coffee, hot chocolate, and sweets- 1.50-3.50 euros
Natural juices, shakes, tea- 2.50-4 euros
Ice cream- 3.50-6 euros
Tapas- 2.50-7 euros
Whisky and Brandy- 2.50-8.50 euros
Wine and beer- 2.50-5 euros per glass, 15.50-22 euros per bottle

By Jane Caffrey

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