I'm a huge lover of coffee and most certainly local coffee shops. Coffee is typically something I miss when I'm living in the developing world, though many countries I've lived in have produced coffee (ex. Jamaica, Uganda), though it hasn't been popular for domestic consumption, or the price has been driven up by rich developed countries. And even if coffee is available, finding a coffee shop with character can be near impossible.
One of my favorite coffee shops is found in the suburb of Majadahonda, about 16km (10 miles) from the heart of Madrid. The coffee shop is located on the "Gran Via" of Majadahonda. "Gran via" is a term used for the main pedestrian walkways in cities in Spain. Apparently pretty much ever city will have a “gran via” and a “plaza mayor”.
The coffee shop is located on a corner with some outside seating available in the summer. The coffee shop also serves a second hand bookstore with shelves of books lining the walls. There is a second floor catwalk that contains a few small tables and more books. The store was originally started by a biologist and previously only served as a bookshop. Then her daughter took over the bookshop and realized she couldn’t survive off it, so she added a small bar. The bar continues to be more of a bookshop than bar, though many “regulars” come in for a drink, usually a cana, glass of wine, or coffee.
Scattered throughout the books are paintings and drawings. The daughter currently runs the bookstore and paints in her down time in the coffee shop. An eclectic mix of music is always playing; from soul and R&B to Andalucian flamenco, the selection of music is perfect.
The coffee shop gives a great vibe. It's a small place and initially seems cramped and cluttered but after some time it becomes homey and cozy. It's never too busy to feel overcrowded and the patrons are a mix of young and old, the majority of them regulars. I also like that it sticks out in the posh landscape of Majadahonda's Gran Via. Tucked among boutiques and chic restaurants there is a laid back second hand book store/coffee shop/gallery.
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