Javier S. Medina Madrid
Arts and crafts made in Spain
Javier S. Medina is a craftsman and restorer specialized in the making of mirrors and animal heads which he calls 'ecological trophies'. His work is purely self-taught and handmade, and he always uses natural materials like bamboo, wicker, rattan or fibre. Even his leather aprons are made by him, taught by his shoemaker father.
Everything you see outside and inside the shop is artisanal - including the atelier itself, an old garage that was totally renewed by him (ask him about it and he'll give you all the amazing details!).
Last time I visited his workshop, he was making some huge bull heads for a restaurant in NYC. But that's not a surprise, as he became a bit more popular in the interior design business ever since Sarah Jessica Parker entered his shop by surprise.
Even if you aren't planning to buy anything, just cross the doors and travel to the past. The smell of the wicker, the tools... Besides, he's really friendly so just ask him anything and he will tell you some of his great anecdotes from being a handicraftsman in the city.
About this spot
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid
Almacén de vinos Casa Gerardo
You’ll be back
The tomatoes are so delicious they make you question everything you knew before; the wine flows and don’t get me started on the cheese…
by
Andrea
Roberts
Mauthausen Memorial
Republican Victims remembered
The largest piece represents the “Liberty Gate”; 3 large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are “the trees of dreams.”
by
Andrea
Roberts
Latino Arepa
Venezuelan in Barceló Market
Discover Barceló Market in Madrid for a lunch filled with global flavors! Stop by Latino Arepa for Venezuelan delights — arepas, empanadas, and cachapas!
by
Catherine
Driver
Serrería Belga
Old Sawmill, New Gallery
Escape the crowds of Madrid’s famous art museums and explore Serrería Belga, a repurposed sawmill turned vibrant art space with diverse exhibitions!
by
Catherine
Driver
Museo del Traje
History Through Fashion
The museum is big and every inch of the Museo del Traje is enjoyable, but my favourite part is their magnificent display of traditional Spanish costumes.
by
Catherine
Driver
Galería de la Colecciónes Reales
Royal Luxury
This modern, award-winning building houses three immense floors of some of the Crown's most spectacular paintings, sculptures, tapestries and carriages.
by
Catherine
Driver
Masala Darbar
Spice Up Your Life
All of the classic favourites are served up here at Masala Darbar – Butter Chicken, Korma and Tikka Masala – with sides of basmati rice and fluffy naan.
by
Catherine
Driver
Taverna Sacromonte
Wine in Madrid’s Chinatown
"Taverna Sacromonte" is an Andaluz tavern in Usera, Madrid. It feels village-y. Their tapas are great here -- I recommend going there and then for Chinese!
by
Andrea
Roberts
Mercato Italiano
Italian Aperitivo in Madrid
"Mercato Italiano" in Madrid is in the city's Little Italy in Rios Rosas. Great bruschetta and salads, and I recommend getting a wine, spritz or Campari...
by
Andrea
Roberts
Toma Café 2
Coolest coffee spot in Madrid
"Toma Café 2" in Madrid have not only created art out of coffee (I'm sipping a jasmine/white peach brew right now), I love their sandwiches & peacefulness.
by
Andrea
Roberts
Heading to Madrid?
243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 243 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Madrid
Our team loves Madrid
Get to know our other Spotters from Madrid
As featured on:
