A Pint and a Proper Pub: Finding a Home Away from Home at La Fontana de Oro, Madrid
Madrid. Just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched plazas, passionate flamenco, and plates piled high with tapas. And while I’ve certainly been soaking up all that this magnificent city has to offer, sometimes, just sometimes, a Brit abroad needs a little taste of home. A proper pint, a familiar pub atmosphere, and the chance to hear some good old-fashioned live music. That’s what I was craving when, after a long day exploring the Prado and getting delightfully lost in the backstreets of La Latina, I stumbled upon La Fontana de Oro.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “You went all the way to Madrid to go to a pub?” And yes, at first glance, it might seem a bit odd. But hear me out. La Fontana isn’t just any pub; it’s a little oasis of familiarity in the heart of a vibrant foreign city. It’s a place where you can recharge, reflect on your adventures, and connect with fellow travellers, all while enjoying the comforting embrace of a pub atmosphere we Brits know and love.
Finding My Way There: A Happy Accident
My discovery of La Fontana was a happy accident, as many of the best travel finds are. I was heading back to my hotel near the Plaza Mayor, the scent of churros still lingering in the air, when I heard the unmistakable sounds of a live band. Following my ears, I found myself on Calle de la Victoria, a narrow street buzzing with that unmistakable pre-dinner energy that Madrid does so well. And there it was, tucked between a tapas bar and a souvenir shop: La Fontana.
The first thing that struck me was the warm, inviting glow emanating from within. Through the large windows, I could see a lively crowd, a mix of locals and tourists, all seemingly enjoying the music and the convivial atmosphere. The pub’s name, emblazoned in a classic font above the door, was reassuringly familiar, and the chalkboard outside promised “Live Music Every Night.” Intrigued, I pushed open the door and stepped inside.
A Pub with Personality: More than Just a Watering Hole
Stepping into La Fontana is like stepping into a well-loved local back home, albeit with a distinctly Spanish twist. The interior is a delightful mix of traditional pub decor and Spanish flair. Dark wood paneling, worn leather seating, and vintage posters adorning the walls create a cosy and welcoming ambiance. But then you’ll spot the Spanish football scarves draped above the bar, the flamenco posters interspersed with the Guinness adverts, and the friendly bar staff effortlessly switching between English and Spanish. It’s a charming blend of cultures that instantly puts you at ease.
The Heart of the Pub: Live Music and Lively Banter
The real draw of La Fontana, and what sets it apart from your average pub, is the live music. As promised, a band was in full swing when I arrived, playing a mix of classic rock covers and some Spanish favourites. The musicians were clearly talented, and the energy in the room was infectious. People were tapping their feet, singing along, and some were even brave enough to get up and dance.
I grabbed a stool at the bar, ordered a pint of Mahou (when in Rome, or in this case, Madrid!), and struck up a conversation with the bartender, a friendly chap named Carlos. He told me that La Fontana has been a fixture on the Madrid pub scene for over 30 years, and it’s known for its commitment to live music. They have different bands playing every night, covering a wide range of genres, from blues and rock to Irish folk and even the occasional bit of jazz.
A Taste of Home, with a Spanish Twist:
While the atmosphere and music are the main attractions, the drinks and food at La Fontana are certainly worth mentioning. As a Brit, I was pleased to see a decent selection of beers on tap, including some familiar favourites like Guinness and Newcastle Brown Ale. But, eager to embrace the local flavours, I opted for a pint of Mahou, Madrid’s own popular lager. Crisp, refreshing, and surprisingly moreish, it was the perfect accompaniment to the lively atmosphere.
They also serve a selection of wines and spirits, and if you’re feeling peckish, they offer a menu of pub classics with a Spanish twist. Think patatas bravas alongside your burger and chips, or a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich) filled with chorizo instead of your usual BLT. It’s a fun way to experience familiar comfort food with a little local flavour.
ESCAPE THE ORDINARY, EMBRACE THE EXTRAORDINARY. LA FONTANA: WHERE MADRID’S ENERGY MEETS THE HEART OF A GREAT BRITISH PUB.
More than Just a Tourist Trap: A Meeting Place for All
One of the things I enjoyed most about La Fontana was the mix of people. It wasn’t just a tourist trap; there were plenty of locals enjoying a post-work pint or catching up with friends. I got chatting to a group of Spanish students who were regulars at the pub, drawn in by the music and the friendly atmosphere. They were eager to practice their English, and I was happy to oblige, sharing stories of my travels and getting their recommendations for hidden gems in Madrid.
I also met a couple from Manchester who were on a weekend break, and a solo traveller from Australia who was backpacking across Europe. It’s that kind of place – a melting pot of different nationalities and backgrounds, all brought together by a love of good music, good company, and a good pint.
Why La Fontana is Worth a Visit: A Little Slice of Home in the Heart of Madrid
So, why should you, a fellow UK travel enthusiast, add La Fontana to your Madrid itinerary? Well, here’s the thing: travel is about experiencing new cultures, immersing yourself in the local way of life, and stepping outside your comfort zone. But it’s also about finding moments of familiarity, little pockets of comfort that help you recharge and reconnect with yourself.
La Fontana offers just that. It’s a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds – the vibrant energy of Madrid and the comforting embrace of a proper pub. It’s a place to enjoy live music, meet new people, and savour a taste of home, all while being surrounded by the unique charm of the Spanish capital.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for the Homesick Brit (and Everyone Else!)
My evening at La Fontana was one of the unexpected highlights of my trip to Madrid. It wasn’t on my carefully planned itinerary, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed. A reminder that sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones you stumble upon by chance.
So, if you find yourself in Madrid, craving a pint, some live music, and a friendly atmosphere, head to La Fontana. Tell Carlos I sent you. You might just find that a little slice of home away from home is exactly what you need to make your Spanish adventure even more memorable. And who knows, you might even discover your new favourite Spanish beer in the process!
La Fontana: Calle de la Victoria, 9, 28012 Madrid, Spain. Check their Facebook page for the latest on their live music schedule. You won’t regret adding this gem to your Madrid must-do list. Cheers!
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