The 5 places to know
| Place | Area | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casa Camacho | Malasaña | Curious drinkers, century-old bar mood | Serves the "yayo": vermouth, gin and soda |
| Taberna de Ángel Sierra (Gravina, 11) | Chueca | House vermouth in a classic tavern | Often full at weekends |
| La Colmada (Espíritu Santo, 19) | Malasaña | Modern delicatessen style, tinned seafood | Pricier than neighbourhood taverns |
| Café Madrid | Centre | Listed by Time Out among the city's best | Quieter on weekdays |
| La Hora del Vermut (San Miguel market) | Plaza Mayor | A first tasting for beginners | Very touristy, higher prices |
Our pick: Casa Camacho for atmosphere and the "yayo", Ángel Sierra for house vermouth.
How to order
- Un vermut: red vermouth (rojo) with ice, orange and an olive. Ask "con sifón" for a splash of soda.
- Vermut de grifo: on tap, the most typical way.
- La banderilla or la conserva: the snack, anchovies, olives, chilli, gherkin, tinned shellfish.
When to go
Sunday between 12:00 and 14:00 around El Rastro and La Latina, then Saturday lunchtime; on weekdays, 19:00 to 21:00. For meal times, see meal times in Madrid.
Prices and traps
A 2025 guide warns that a vermouth on a Plaza Mayor terrace can cost around 12 €, while a neighbourhood bar charges far less. Avoid multilingual menus with photos and pick taverns where regulars stand at the counter.
Our recommendation
To taste several places with a local guide, our food tours in Madrid link tapas, markets and vermouth.
