Pro shopper, fashion stylist and LUXE resident editor Lou Stokes knows Madrid inside out, and for our latest series, “My Perfect Day”, she shares her day-to-night itinerary in the Spanish capital featuring all of her favourite haunts. Follow along and be sure to keep your black book handy for your next trip:
8am: Waking up
I wake up in the bohemian neighbourhood of La Latina, which is honestly one of my favourite parts of the city. I live right by the Plaza de la Paja, a lively square with exquisite restaurants and bars. This neighbourhood has so much character, from the cobbled streets and unique cafes to el mercado de la cebada for fresh produce, Spanish delicatessen and wines.
9am: Yoga at Californian Hot Yoga
I hit Californian Hot Yoga for my daily dose of yoga. The studio is located in the heart of the city and on arrival, I’m always greeted with a smile for that automatic feel-good factor. You can’t beat a dynamic class to get your sweat on and blood flowing. It certainly gets me motivated and ready for my workday ahead.
10am: Coffee at Toma Cafe
I wander through the buzzing neighbourhood of Malasaña and stop by Toma Cafe in Espirtú Santo for my morning coffee. It’s my favourite place to sip an almond milk latte before starting my workday. Toma Café is a pioneer of coffee art and roasting with a New York vibe. Apart from incredible coffee, they serve delicious homemade cakes and the high vibes from behind the counter always brighten my day.
1:30pm: Homemade vegan cuisine at Vega
Serving homemade vegan cuisine, Vega is one of my go-to’s for a delicious healthy lunch in a modern setting. Buzzing with a mix of locals and tourists, their “menu del día” is by far one of the best in Malasaña. Activists for taste, every dish in this restaurant will not leave you disappointed. Get there early to avoid the queues.
3:30pm: Shopping in the city
I love to shop in Lexdeux for high-quality, everyday and glam wear garments. Juanma has to be my favourite Spanish designer. He designs with exquisite detail and every item becomes a part of you, to the point where you never want to take them off.
As a shoe fanatic, I also love Magro & Cardona. This high-end footwear brand reflects the personalities of the two designers, Irene and Ana, with its mix of sophistication, tradition and modernity. Their designs are for women who look for quality and attention to detail with expert craftsmanship.
8:30pm: Dinner at Casa Jaguar
Casa Jaguar is more than a restaurant—it’s a full experience. Their exquisite selection of dishes from the best of Latin American cuisine transports you to new places and sensations. As a vegetarian, my must-haves are trío de los andes and veggie tacos. Great wines and cocktails, friendly and attentive staff.
10:30pm: Cocktails at Jose Alfredo
Jose Alfredo is without a doubt the cocktail place in Madrid. This elegant American-styled cocktail bar is just a stone’s throw away from the Gran Via with a relaxed and fun ambience and “buen rollo” (read: good vibes) with the friendly bartenders. It’s where I go to unwind from a busy afternoon of shopping or for post-dinner cocktails (tip: get the Lazy B*tch).
For more tip-top picks in the Spanish capital, nab a copy of the LUXE Madrid guide…
