Varela Café, opened in 1884 is one of Madrid’s historic literary cafés. It hosted vibrant tertulias with acclaimed writers like the Machado brothers, Miguel de Unamuno, Pío Baroja, Emilio Carrere, and more. This cafe blends its storied past with elegant, Galician‑inspired cuisine—octopus, merluza, seafood croquettes, pintxos, plus Madrid stews on Thursdays—all served in a warm, refined setting.