First Impressions
Ajenjo is a deliberate temporal anomaly. Established in 1978 in a quiet corridor of Malasaña, it rejects the industrial-chic aesthetics of the surrounding neighborhood in favor of dark wood, marble-topped tables, and dim, amber lighting. It feels like a 19th-century literary salon that happens to serve excellent coffee. For those escaping the sensory overload of Gran Vía or Sol, Ajenjo offers a heavy, hushed atmosphere that commands a slower pace.
The Setup
The operational reality of Ajenjo is one of “analog productivity.” While it is frequently cited as a laptop-friendly spot, the ergonomics are traditional: small, round marble tables that are better suited for a notebook or a single 13-inch laptop than a multi-screen mobile office.
Connectivity is functional, but power outlets are a secondary thought in this layout. The seating is designed for “lingering,” making it ideal for deep reading, editing, or creative drafting. However, the cafe has a strict “no cards” policy—cash is the only currency here. Strategically, the best window for work is the immediate opening at 3:30 PM. By 8:00 PM, the space pivots toward la hora del vermut, and the quiet hum of concentration is replaced by the lively social density of a local bar.
The Coffee
The coffee program at Ajenjo avoids the “hipster” tropes of flash-frozen beans and overly acidic profiles. Instead, they focus on flawless traditional execution. The café con leche is rich and consistent, serving as the reliable backbone of a menu that also includes high-quality teas and natural smoothies.
If you are working through a midday slump, their homemade cakes—specifically the carrot cake—are legendary among locals and provide more substantive fuel than the generic pastries found in nearby chains. It is a menu that rewards the patient visitor, mirrored by a staff that values a quiet, professional demeanor.
The Verdict
Ajenjo is a “hidden gem” specifically for the focused professional who doesn’t mind an analog constraint. It is not a high-speed hub for video calls or data-heavy uploads; it is a sanctuary for thought. The cash-only requirement and late opening hours (3:30 PM) make it a specialized tool in a remote worker’s arsenal rather than a daily default. If you can work within its historic boundaries, it offers a level of focus and authenticity that modern coworking spaces cannot replicate.
Security Note: Given the vintage nature of the venue and the shared WiFi, ensure your firewall is active and avoid conducting financial transactions on the public network.
