On the other side of the street from Hermes and Valentino, you can't miss this beautiful black-and-white awninged cafe, Cristina Oria.

I love this place, and not coincidentally, it is the favourite of my stylish Madridian girlfriend. It's somewhat reminiscent of NYC's Nello (for those who remember), which was also next door to Hermes on Madison Avenue for decades until it finally closed in spring of 2024. You can also think Pastis, still next door to Hermes, if your shopping epicenter has moved downtown to Manhattan's Meatpacking District.

Sit down for a civilised morning cafe cortado and tosta en pan con aceite y tomate. A classic Spanish breakfast of a short coffee with milk and toast with olive oil and a very special light tomato spread.

Or join the ladies who lunch and start with a mid-day meal here before you embark on your day of shopping.

They also have the most delicious branded olive oil north of Jaen, in my experience. You can pick up a bottle right there, amongst other gourmet items and beautiful kitchenware.

Cristina herself is a force of nature, now with her own TV cooking show and cookbook.

https://cristinaoria.com

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