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.
Find your way with 243 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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…
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The largest piece represents the “Liberty Gate”; 3 large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are “the trees of dreams.”
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Pastelería La Maravilla is one of the best bakeries in Madrid. Its cookies, cakes, breads and pastries have personality! I can never resist them...
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Discover Barceló Market in Madrid for a lunch filled with global flavors! Stop by Latino Arepa for Venezuelan delights — arepas, empanadas, and cachapas!
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Escape the crowds of Madrid’s famous art museums and explore Serrería Belga, a repurposed sawmill turned vibrant art space with diverse exhibitions!
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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.
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For 5 euros, paid at the ground-floor, I received a lift ticket which would carry me up 27 dizzying floors to enjoy some of the best views of the city.
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This modern, award-winning building houses three immense floors of some of the Crown's most spectacular paintings, sculptures, tapestries and carriages.
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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.
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"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!
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"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...
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"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.
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243 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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