First Impressions
Feliz Coffee (specifically the “To Stay” location on Calle de Lope de Vega) is a masterclass in modern “slow coffee” culture. Tucked away in the historic Barrio de las Letras, it sits as a quiet, bright alternative to the chaotic tourist thoroughfares of nearby Calle de la Princesa and Sol. The aesthetic is clinical yet warm—bright, clean lines and a professional demeanor that signals a focus on the craft of roasting rather than the volume of traffic.
The Setup
Contrary to outdated reviews suggesting this is a remote-work haven, Feliz has pivoted toward a strictly laptop-free environment. The current operational logic is designed to foster a “relaxed break” rather than a workday.
The seating is petite and cozy, with a few small tables and a bright interior that catches natural light, but the management explicitly discourages digital distractions. While you may see older notes about window-side outlets, these are functionally obsolete for workers, as the venue now promotes a “To Stay” philosophy that revolves around social interaction or reading. If you are looking for a spot to open a MacBook, you will likely be politely redirected or find yourself without a connection, as the Wi-Fi is either restricted or entirely absent to preserve the “unplugged” vibe.
The Coffee
The coffee program remains the primary reason for the venue’s prestige. This is a technical specialty shop where the baristas—fluent in both Spanish and English—treat extractions with high precision. The Flat White and Cortado are the benchmark drinks here, featuring perfectly micro-foamed milk (including high-quality almond milk alternatives) and balanced specialty profiles.
The food menu is concise but high-quality, focused on premium pastries like pain au chocolat, cinnamon rolls, and date rolls. While the original review suggests skipping the caña, it’s worth noting that the venue’s focus is so intensely on caffeine that alcohol is practically a non-factor. This is a place for serious coffee practitioners and those looking to decompress, not for a working lunch.
The Verdict
Feliz Coffee is an exceptional specialty destination, but it is an operational dead zone for remote workers. It has intentionally decoupled itself from the “laptop-friendly” ecosystem to protect its atmosphere. It is the premier spot for a mid-day sensory reset or a quiet meeting without screens. If you need to hit a deadline, go to a designated coworking hub; come to Feliz only when you are ready to close the laptop and appreciate one of the best extractions in Madrid.
Security Note: As a high-foot-traffic specialty boutique, keep your belongings close. Since laptop use is discouraged, your hardware should remain out of sight to respect the house rules.
