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This article is part of the FT Globetrotter's guide to Madrid
A stay at the Thompson Hotel, a stylish arrival on Madrid's hotel scene, begins as most good things in the Spanish capital do: with a sparkling plate of jamon iberico and a glass of white wine. This taste of local specialties aims to make guests feel welcome as passports and keys are presented and administered at reception, though it is also an introduction to the hotel's core theme: Thompson is an ode to Madrid, a celebration of (and) the city. Spain) gastronomic prowess, culture and art, in everything, from the materials used in its design and construction, to the art on its walls and the dishes served from its kitchens – all, of course, with a touch of the New York brand's exciting style. With marble and dark wood (both sourced from Spain), earthy tones and a mid-century design aesthetic used throughout, Thompson is where Mad Men meets Madrid.
This is emphasized from the start in the hotel's elegant lobby lounge and bar area, where a selection of high-end clothing from local fashion designers is displayed under the stunning wood-paneled ceiling on mannequins, alongside fine art photography from Madrid. Owned by Andrea Torres. Each floor of the hotel features works by different local artists.
Depending on where your room is located, the building itself, designed by local firm López y Tena, can look a bit like a maze due to the two large central courtyards creating a maze-like design, but the important upshot is that even the interior bedrooms let in plenty of natural light. The sophisticated quarters—featuring 151 generously divided rooms, with 23 additional suites, including a massive two-story penthouse—feature comfortable king-size beds, Eames-style seating and ample storage space. The spacious bathrooms are inviting and moody, with dark marble, inviting lighting, a large rain shower, double sinks and eco-friendly DS & Durga toiletries. Guests can choose either a courtyard or city view, although rooms with balconies are most tempting in a city that sees an average of 350 days of sunshine per year.
However, the hotel's best place to enjoy Europe's most pristine capital is its rooftop, a slice of heaven during Madrid's scorching summer months, with 360-degree views of the city skyline, a sparkling infinity pool, and plenty of loungers, hammocks and shaded benches. . And a restaurant and bar. Cool weather is best enjoyed downstairs, at Hijos de Tomás, Thompson's lively piano bar.
All food and beverage at the hotel is overseen by one of the best-known names in Madrid's culinary scene, chef-restaurateur Nino Reduelo, whose La Ancha restaurant group operates some of the city and country's most iconic establishments, including the restaurant that bears his name. La Ancha's century-old gem.
In Thompson, its star shines brightly at The Omar, the hotel's excellent bakery and all-day dining restaurant. With some exceptions, the cuisine is, unsurprisingly, local and Spanish, modern and refined for the sake of setting, but without sacrificing authenticity and simplicity, as evidenced by the lightly grilled local white asparagus (when in season) and Pollo Picantón, an umami-rich chicken and rice dish that I can eat it from the trough of an Iberian pig.
Madrid's seafood obsession is best expressed here by the beautifully fresh raw tuna belly – thinly sliced and tossed in citrus olive oil and toasted, lightly salted almonds – and one of the off-piste options: prawn and crab pasta topped with butter. A biscuit-like sauce with notes of lemongrass and Thai basil. It's a clever combination that doesn't make much sense on this list, but I personally hope it sticks around forever.
Thompson Madrid is the only European hotel in the Hyatt-owned portfolio (a Rome location is expected to open this year, followed by Vienna next year and Seville in 2026) — its other 18 locations are primarily in the United States. The original (now closed) location in New York's SoHo district played a pivotal role in the area's transition into the Chichi neighborhood it is today. I suspect the Thompson brand could have a similar impact on this slice of central Madrid, close to the frenetic shopping district around Gran Via and Puerta del Sol, one of the city's busiest squares (and home to the clock that chimes in the New Year). Thanks to a wave of new stylish hotel openings in recent years, including Edition, UMusic and Four Seasons, with more to come, developers have already dubbed the area the city's new golden mile. Thompson is definitely a shiny addition.
In a glance:
Rooms: 151 rooms and 23 suites (including a 222 square meter penthouse suite spread over two floors)
Suitable for: Elegant and luxurious residence in the heart of central Madrid. Sun and fun seekers will enjoy the pool and rooftop bar
Not very suitable for: The immediate area is crowded, although it is central and a convenient base for exploring the city
FYI: Make time for a meal at The Omar, a restaurant and bakery located on the hotel's ground floor and run by one of the city's most famous culinary figures.
Gym: on the first floor. Guests can book personal training and group fitness classes
Prices: double starting from 450 euros
Address: Plaza del Carmen, 28013 Madrid
website; directione
Nikki Blasina stayed as a guest at Thompson Madrid
What is your favorite stay in Madrid? Tell us in the comments below. And follow the FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter
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