If you’re going to be in the Spanish capital of Madrid for 48-hours, there are Black-owned businesses which deserve your Euros.
This fun, cosmopolitan city offers so much to do including restaurants, bars and culture; you’ll quickly learn that you’ll need to visit again for a longer time! Many of the businesses are African- owned specifically, which isn’t surprising given Spain’s historical ties to the Motherland. There are also Black American expats who call Spain home and have carved a niche for themselves in Spanish society.
According to RGNN, “the growing Black diaspora is changing the complexion of the city. There are many things to do and see in Madrid that deal with Black culture which may be surprising to most visitors.”
Here are some Black-owned businesses in Madrid to check out.
1. Day 1- Morning
View this post on Instagram
El Museo Africano opened in 1985. Here, you can see musical instruments, art, statues and more from sub-Saharan countries.
There are guided tours but note that the museum has more limited hours in July, August and September, according to Es Madrid.
The closest metro is Arturo Soria.
For more of the same, you can visit Africart Madrid on Calle de la Verónica.
2. Day 1- Afternoon
View this post on Instagram
Get a good sweat going at Orishas Dance, courtesy of founder Yanulka O’Farril and her talented staff.
Choose from a number of dance styles including bachata, afro-rumba, cabaret Cubano, salsa and more.
There are also classes for those who want something outside of dance instruction like Zumba and karate. The closest metro is Las Musas.
Afterwards, it’s time for lunch. This is the largest, most important meal of the day in Spain, so seize the chance to gorge yourself on delicious food.
Africa Fusion on Calle Argumosa offers a variety of African dishes, including Senegal’s Thieboudienne, the national dish.
Colores, a cozy, unassuming hole in the wall and La Teranga, are also Senegalese.
3. Day 1- Evening
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking to get your hair done, Afro Mari Cruz is a unisex salon that opened in 1994. As the name suggests, it caters to clients with ethnic hair, as well as those of European descent. No need to worry about a language barrier because some staff members speak English. You can book an appointment online.
Grab a drink at La Pasa Gin Bar, a lively tavern. There are some good eats here as well, including fried chicken, burgers and delectable desserts.
4. Day 2- Morning
View this post on Instagram
How about starting your second day on a self-care note?
Massage therapist Shawn Franklin is the founder of HCS Masajes. He has a steady following of clients, and you can read their reviews on his Instagram page.
His business is based on Ronda de Valencia. You can email or DM him for an appointment.
5. Day 2- Afternoon
View this post on Instagram
Spend your second lunch chowing down at an Ethiopian restaurant.
Restaurante Etíope Habesha is within short walking distance to two of Madrid’s landmarks: Retiro Park and the Reina Sofia Museum. The service and food are equally excellent, according to reviews on Trip Advisor.
“Swingin’ show woman” T.J. Jazz moved from Massachusetts to Madrid in 2007. According to the website, she is “one of the most versatile artists on the Spanish scene.”
In addition to performing herself across Europe and elsewhere, Jazz teaches classes in tap dance and jazz, among other disciplines. Check out the schedule here.
6. Day 3- Evening
View this post on Instagram
How about dinner at a Moroccan restaurant? Restaurante Al-Mounia is in the district of Salamanca, and offers live music and belly dancing on occasion. It’s one of the oldest in the city, dating back to 1966.
Alternatively, you can grab authentic Jamaican food and a range of cocktails at One Love Reggae Bar on Calle Buenavista.
It’s open Wednesday through Sunday.
