Madrid’s Chamberí district has just welcomed a new hotspot, but Gilda Haus isn’t your typical bar—it’s a masterclass in how to fuse vintage glamour with a cutting-edge vibe. Imagine stepping into a mid-century noir film, only to find the soundtrack replaced by an electric beat, the martini in your hand spiked with avant-garde flair. Gilda Haus is where old Hollywood meets Madrid’s modern nightlife, and it’s nothing short of spectacular.
Inspired by Rita Hayworth’s iconic role in Gilda, this bar pays homage to the drama, sensuality, and intrigue of the 1950s. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re transported into a cinematic universe that feels both familiar and strikingly new. The interiors, designed by Codoo Studio, exude sultry elegance—think velvet banquettes, deep shades of burgundy and emerald, and moody lighting that gives every corner an air of mystery. It’s as if the entire space is lit for a close-up, and trust us, you’ll feel like the star of the show.
The design is unmistakably bold yet timeless. Art deco-inspired details wrap the space in geometric patterns and shimmering metallics, but nothing feels overdone. Every piece of the puzzle fits seamlessly, from the glossy marble bar to the intimate nooks that invite you to lean in closer, sip slower, and lose track of time.
Cocktails here are an art form. Gilda Haus doesn’t just serve drinks; they craft experiences. The menu marries the classics with a contemporary twist, offering signature cocktails that feel like they belong in a golden age film but taste like something you’ve never had before. Imagine a smoky Old Fashioned infused with hints of Spanish spices or a perfectly dry martini with an unexpected burst of botanical flair. Each drink is a carefully curated nod to both tradition and innovation, much like the space itself.
As the night progresses, so does the energy. Gilda Haus transitions seamlessly from an intimate cocktail bar into a lively social hub. The design transforms with the crowd—those dark corners become perfect spots to watch the night unfold, and the shimmering light bouncing off gold accents turns the whole bar into a living, breathing scene. The music, a blend of retro cool and modern beats, crescendos as the night deepens, creating a vibe that’s both seductive and exhilarating.
But Gilda Haus is more than just aesthetics and cocktails. It’s about the experience, the atmosphere, and the feeling of being somewhere both timeless and on the pulse of what’s next. It’s a place where locals and travelers alike come to escape the ordinary, to step into a moment of cinematic luxury, and to indulge in a world that feels both glamorous and effortlessly cool.
Madrid has no shortage of places to see and be seen, but Gilda Haus offers something more—a space where history and modernity intertwine, where every sip and every glance feels like part of a larger story. It’s not just a bar; it’s a scene. One that you won’t want to leave anytime soon. – Bill Tikos
