Sala Equis

Sala Equis sits in a covered courtyard on Calle del Duque de Alba, between La Latina and Plaza Mayor. The building's history as an adult cinema remains visible everywhere: the original screen, the raked seating, the projection booth, and the marquee-style signage survived the renovation. The team behind the space (a group of Madrid designers and restaurateurs) made the decision to treat the cinema past as the main design feature rather than hiding it, which sets Sala Equis apart from the many repurposed Madrid venues that erase their previous identities.

The main room is the draw. Rows of theater seats face a full-size screen that runs rotating programs: silent films, short programs, music videos, and on some nights curated feature screenings. The audio stays low enough that the room functions as a bar first and a cinema second, but loud enough that the film feels present. Drinks are ordered at a bar at the back of the theater or from circulating staff. Sitting through a full drink while a Buster Keaton film plays on the screen is a reliably strange Madrid experience.

The courtyard terrace is the more conventional bar space, covered by a retractable glass roof and surrounded by brick walls with ambient plants. It handles the overflow on busy nights and is the preferred spot for people who want to talk without film audio in the background. The side room, smaller and darker, operates as a cocktail-focused space with a more detailed drinks menu.

Programming expands on most weekends to include DJs, live music, and occasional themed nights. The cover charge, when applied, runs 5 to 10 EUR and the bar stays open until 02:30. Compared to other design-led Madrid venues (Casa Suecia's rooftop, Matadero's cultural complex, Ojalá in Malasaña), Sala Equis is the most central and the most concept-driven. The concept is also the main limitation: if you don't find the cinema premise interesting, the drinks and food are fine but don't justify a special trip.