La Venencia

Step into La Venencia and you’re stepping back in time. This legendary Madrid bar, tucked away on Calle Echegaray in the Sol neighborhood, has been serving sherry for nearly a century. The atmosphere is wonderfully unchanged—dusty vintage bottles line the shelves, peeling paint adorns the walls, and dark wooden tables fill the room. It’s the kind of place where Ernest Hemingway once found inspiration, and you can still feel that timeless literary charm today.

This isn’t your typical bar. La Venencia is devoted entirely to sherry, so don’t bother asking for beer or soda. Instead, embrace the experience and work your way through their selection of Spanish sherries—from dry and crisp Manzanilla and Fino to the richer Oloroso and Amontillado varieties. You can order by the glass, half-bottle, or full bottle. The food menu is equally straightforward: chorizo, cheese, and olives. Simple, unpretentious, and perfect alongside your drink.

Expect a lively, no-frills experience. There’s no menu to peruse, just a small sign listing what’s available. The bartenders are busy, so be ready to speak up and keep your order simple. Photography is forbidden here—an old-school rule that encourages you to put away your phone and actually be present. The crowd is always a mix of locals and travelers who’ve heard the legends, all squeezed together around those well-worn tables.

La Venencia is perfect for anyone seeking an authentic slice of Madrid’s history. Whether you’re a sherry aficionado or a curious newcomer, this is the place to explore the world of Spanish fortified wine. Just be warned: with so many varieties to try, you might want to save room in your schedule for churros at a nearby café the next morning.