Tucked away on a quiet street just off busy Plaza de España is Absent Cocktail Room and Garden, my favourite place to treat myself to a fancy drink. With its entrance surrounded by the warm glow of fairy lights, you immediately escape the dingy street and enter somewhere special.
It’s tempting to immediately grab a seat in the tranquil garden, which is a cool respite on a hot day, but take a few steps inside and you'll be transported to the old cafés of Paris. You can almost picture Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald having a chat here. Comfy burgundy, cream, and blue chairs, flanked by a wooden bookshelf and bar, are softly lit by candles and dim, tasseled chandeliers. Cool jazz and the cocktail shaker provide the soundtrack.
The atmosphere exudes sophistication with drinks to match. With sweet and spicy cocktails, there is something for every taste here. Whether you choose the popular La Candida, made with rum, kombucha, lime, mango, egg white, and soda, or the El Clandestino with its tequila and mezcal base, you will find that all of Absent’s drinks are made with several complex flavours, all blending perfectly together.
Beer and wine are served until 6:00 PM and there is also a small, equally tasty, non-alcoholic menu. On a work night, I love the El de *Asis*, a refreshing mix of orange and pineapple juice, grenadine, lemon, and soda. Absent, amazing during both summer and winter months, is like a home you never want to leave.
Calle de San Leonardo, 3
Cocktail:
€
12
633877961
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The restaurant doesn't rely on fancy decor to impress; instead, it wins you over with its food!
by
I first visited "La Alhambra" in Madrid with an Algerian friend of mine. This Middle-Eastern is so authentic it can be a intimidating at first...
by
"Casa Dani" in my opinion makes the best Spanish omelette in Madrid, and this is coming from a passionate Spaniard himself!
by
"Mercado de San Fernando" is one of my favorite markets in Madrid! I like it because it brings in a mixture of traditional establishments and modern spots.
by
"Sala Equis" used to be the oldest XXX cinema in Madrid. Now it's a multifunctional cultural space, a completely new concept of cinema...
by
Darchini offers a culinary journey that promises both authenticity and satisfaction, ensuring that every visit is very memorable.
by
The creamy interior of the croquetas, combined with a crispy shell, offer a taste of home-cooked perfection that could only be found in the heart of Spain.
by
Cesar's Burgers redefines burger enjoyment with "La Campeona 2.0" and bacon cheese fries. And the warm atmosphere and the attentive service are a big plus.
by
Despite its hidden location and exclusive ambiance, Jack's Library welcomes all who enter its hallowed halls with warmth and hospitality.
by
With its intimate lighting, La Coquette creates a bohemian cave-like atmosphere with talented musicians that fill the room with beautiful melodies.
by
The Margherita at Menomale, with its simple yet perfect combination of fresh ingredients, is a testament to the art of pizza-making.
by
The mojitos here are unparalleled; fresh mint, the perfect amount of sugar, and rum combine in harmony to create a drink that's both refreshing & powerful.
by
243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 243 Insider Tips