Robert PerskyMADRID, SPAIN. In Madrid, it is easy to find cafés, but there are not many places that specialize and prevail in the art of tea. Because of this, Vailima was started in 2007 with the purpose of bringing good quality tea to Madrid. Because of this purpose, it has a large, exotic selection of over 150 tea varieties and great pastries.
Interior | Robert Persky
I ordered a Hanami Imperial tea, a green tea, that came well presented in a small teapot. The tea came with an excellent multigrain croissant and the combination only cost 2,50 euros. If you want a sandwich with your tea instead, it will cost 3,50 euros. Other breakfast teas available the day I visited included Earl Grey Superior, Yan Krasnaia (black tea), Trahison Byzantine (rooibos tea), and Tilleul Fruits Rouges. A menu of the day costs 10,00 euros. Their cakes and sandwiches also looked really good.
The space is a long room, with large windows on one side and vines covering a white brick wall on the other. There is a large display case that shows their deserts and breads. The place is pretty large, but is comfortable and romantic. The atmosphere is very French (complimenting many French pastries, such as macaroons).
It is right off of the Puerta de Alcala, making is a perfect place to grab a snack and tea with a friend after walking in Retiro Park, or when walking from Plaza de Colon.
Wi-fi is free. Take out is also available, if you wish to grab a bite to go or buy tea to prepare at home. They also have an online store for this purpose.
Vailima
Salustiano Olózaga, 18
28001 Madrid
http://www.vailima.es/
Tel. +34 913 090 955
Neighborhood: Salamanca
Metro Stations: Retiro, Banco de Espana, Colón
Hours: Mon to Thur 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Fri 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sat 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sun 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Croissants | Robert Persky