Cafe del Nuncio
Cafe del Nuncio is built into the old city walls of La Latina, with outdoor seating cascading down stone steps on multiple levels. The terrace is the entire point: tables sit on ancient stone stairs that descend along the exterior of a historic building, offering views over the lower streets of La Latina. It's one of Madrid's most atmospheric outdoor drinking spots. A beer runs EUR 4-5, wine EUR 4-6, and cocktails EUR 7-9. The prices reflect the location, but they're not outrageous. The interior is a standard Madrid bar with nothing special. Outside, the tiered stone seating turns a simple drink into a memorable experience. Warm evenings, particularly in spring and early autumn, are the best times. The terrace gets packed from 7 PM on weekends, and finding a spot requires either arriving early or waiting for someone to leave. The crowd is mixed between locals who know the spot and tourists who stumble upon it while exploring La Latina's winding streets.
What to Expect
Stone steps converted to terrace seating, cascading down the side of a historic building. You'll sit on ancient stonework with a drink, looking out over the La Latina rooftops. The setting is unique and photogenic. Service is basic but the location compensates for everything.
Atmospheric, terrace-focused, and quietly spectacular. The stone steps are the star.
None outdoors. Basic background music inside.
None.
Anyone who appreciates a drink with a view. Photographers. Couples on a warm evening.
Cash and cards accepted
Price Range
Beer EUR 4-5, wine EUR 4-6, cocktails EUR 7-9
≈ $4-5 beer, $4-7 wine, $8-10 cocktails
Hours
Daily noon to 1:30 AM
Insider Tip
Come at sunset for the best light on the terrace. The lower level seats have better views but are harder to get. Midweek evenings are significantly less crowded than weekends.
Full Review
Cafe del Nuncio's interior is forgettable. A standard Madrid bar with a long counter, some tables, and nothing that would make you stop. Step outside, though, and the terrace changes everything. Stone steps cascade down the side of the building, with metal tables and chairs arranged on each level. The views look south over lower La Latina's rooftops.
The drinks are basic. Beer is cold, wine comes from a short list of acceptable options, and cocktails are functional rather than inspired. Nobody orders a second drink because of the quality. They order it because they don't want to give up their seat.
I visited on a Thursday evening in October and had the terrace to myself for the first twenty minutes. By 8 PM, every level was full and people were standing on the street with drinks in hand. The golden hour light on the stone walls was genuinely beautiful. A couple at the table above me was taking photos that probably became their profile picture.
The terrace has limitations. The stone seats aren't comfortable for long sessions. There's no shade if you come during a hot afternoon. And the service is slow because the waiters navigate stone stairs to deliver drinks. None of these things matter when you're sitting there. The setting overrides every practical objection.
The Neighborhood
Cafe del Nuncio sits on Calle del Nuncio in the upper part of La Latina, near the Costanilla de San Andres. The medieval street layout of the area creates the elevation changes that make the terrace possible. Plaza de la Paja and Plaza del Humilladero are nearby.
Getting There
Metro L5 to La Latina, then a 5-minute walk uphill through the narrow streets. From Sol, walk through Plaza Mayor and continue south. Look for the stone steps on Calle del Nuncio; the bar entrance is at the top.
Address
Calle del Nuncio 12, 28005 Madrid
Other Venues in La Latina
Taberna Tempranillo
Tiny wine bar on Cava Baja specializing in Spanish wines with a constantly rotating selection by the glass. Standing room only most evenings. The staff know their wines and will guide you if you ask.
La Musa Latina
Bright, modern tapas bar on Costanilla de San Andres with creative takes on traditional dishes. The terrace overlooking the square fills quickly on warm evenings. Cocktails are decent and priced fairly for the area.
Delic
Cafe-bar on Plaza de la Paja serving brunch, cocktails, and light food in a relaxed setting. The terrace on the square is prime real estate on sunny afternoons. Transitions from cafe to bar as the evening progresses.