I have a terrible sweet tooth and living in Madrid does me absolutely no favours with its bakeries, churrerías and candy stores on every corner. My favourite, without a doubt, is the gorgeous Bombonería La Pajarita, with its lovely candies and beautiful atmosphere. A new sensibility arose in 1850’s Madrid as Madrileños sought out more refined luxuries. Opened in 1852 to meet this demand, La Pajarita is now the oldest confectioner in Madrid, with a long history of providing high-quality sweets to the city’s elite.

Named for a popular origami bird which people used to create with napkins, La Pajarita’s first location was opened in bustling Puerta del Sol by the Aznárez family. It still remains in their hands today, six generations later. In 1969, the family opened their current location in the tony Salamanca neighbourhood, across the street from the National Archaeology Museum.

Essences of violet, rose, lavender and mint are extracted to create their classic hard candies, and the Pajarita-shaped chocolates and seasonal Marrons Glacés are made only with the best ingredients. They also have ice cream! Jars of candies line the light blue walls and the antique decor gives La Pajarita a sophisticated old-world feel. Packaged in exquisite floral boxes and tied with a coloured ribbon, it is evident that great care and pride go into everything here.

Picking up my favourite mints and walking around the streets of Madrid with La Pajarita’s classic pink and blue bag always makes my day feel extra special.