A spectacular bar-restaurant in a converted 19th-century newspaper printing press in La Latina — remarkable architecture and a lively crowd across multiple floors
El Imparcial occupies a magnificent 19th-century building in La Latina, Madrid, that once housed one of the city's most important newspapers. The printing-press heritage is woven into the design: exposed ironwork, high vaulted ceilings, and original stonework have been preserved alongside contemporary furnishing to create one of the most visually striking bar-restaurant spaces in the city. The venue spreads across multiple floors, each with its own character — from the ground-floor bar to a mezzanine ideal for groups, and an upper floor that functions as a cultural space hosting events and talks. The crowd is diverse and generally mixed in age, reflecting La Latina's character as a neighbourhood that welcomes everyone from young creatives to established professionals.
The drinks programme centres on well-executed craft cocktails alongside an excellent wine list featuring Spanish and international labels. The bar team is attentive and knowledgeable, capable of building both classics and more creative compositions. The food menu complements the drinks effectively, offering contemporary Spanish bites and sharing plates that pair well with the cocktail selection. Prices at El Imparcial are moderate for the quality on offer — cocktails hover around €10–€14 and the food is similarly accessible.
The space operates as a bar, restaurant, and cultural venue simultaneously, which gives it an energy unlike most nightlife spots in Madrid. Events — talks, book launches, live music — occasionally take place in the upper floors, making it worth checking the venue's social media for the weekly programme before visiting. The bar operates from midday into the late evening, and unlike many Madrid venues it is busy for lunch and afternoon drinks as well as the evening period. Peak evening hours, particularly on Thursdays and Fridays, see the ground-floor bar area become very lively. For a quieter experience, weekday afternoons or early evenings are recommended.
Good to know
- Signature
- Craft cocktails in a stunning historic building
Highlights
- Spectacular conversion of a 19th-century newspaper printing press with preserved ironwork and vaulted ceilings
- Multi-floor venue with distinct atmospheres — street-level bar, mezzanine seating, and cultural events space
- Solid craft cocktail list complemented by a well-selected Spanish wine programme
- Contemporary Spanish sharing plates that pair well with the drinks
- Regular cultural programming: talks, book launches, and live music on the upper floors
Tips for visiting
- Check El Imparcial's social media for evening events that transform the upstairs floor into a cultural space
- The midday and afternoon hours are excellent for a quieter drink and a relaxed lunch
- Arrive before 9 pm on Thursday and Friday to secure ground-floor bar seats
- The mezzanine works well for groups — slightly quieter than the ground floor
- Cocktails cost €10–€14; the food is good value for the central La Latina location
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors book a table at El Imparcial?
Reservations are accepted for the restaurant floors and are recommended for groups on weekends. The bar area is walk-in only.
What kind of food does El Imparcial serve?
The kitchen produces contemporary Spanish sharing plates — quality charcuterie, pintxos, and creative small dishes designed to complement drinks rather than constitute a formal menu.
Does El Imparcial host events?
Yes. The upper floors regularly host talks, book launches, art openings, and occasional live music. Checking social channels before a visit is worthwhile.
Is the space accessible for visitors with mobility difficulties?
The ground-floor bar is step-free and accessible, though the upper floors require stair access.
What are the opening hours?
El Imparcial operates from midday through to late evening most days, making it suitable for lunch, afternoon drinks, and evening dining.