March in Madrid marks a shift from winter’s chill to the promise of spring. The city quickens its pace, with terraces filling up and strolls extending into the evening. It’s a time for rediscovery, for booking tables in bustling neighborhoods, and for revisiting forgotten classics. This week, Madrid presents three distinct ways to embrace the changing season: a taste of Georgia, a luxurious hair treatment, and a traditional pepito sandwich, all contributing to a well-rounded weekend in the capital.
Georgia’s Everyday Charm at K’era
K’era (Calle de San Lucas, 11) is the latest venture from Nino Kiltava, the visionary behind Nunuka and Persimmon’s. While her previous establishments introduced unique flavors to Madrid, K’era expands on this, offering an all-day concept inspired by the warmth of a Georgian home.
“For me, K’era is the most natural way to share Georgia in Madrid today. A vibrant, everyday place where you can come at any time and feel at home,” explains Kiltava.
A traditional oven takes center stage, dictating the rhythm of the menu. From it emerge the doughs and breads that form the backbone of the offerings, with khachapuri – particularly the adjaruli – being a constant highlight. The kitchen, led by Gio Bakradze, features recognizable recipes like khinkali and walnut sauces, alongside dishes that resonate with the Madrileño palate. More than just a restaurant with fixed hours, K’era aims to accompany various moments of the day: breakfast, lunch, afternoon coffee, or wine as evening falls. The average bill ranges from 30 to 40 euros.
Hair Transformation Near Santiago Bernabéu
In the rapidly transforming area around the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the Spanish license for Dessange International (Paseo de la Castellana, 107) operates, managed by Alma Corporation. The salon, which opened in July 2021, aims to captivate the neighborhood.
Javier Pelayo, the group’s franchise development director, describes the service as “unique.” The experience is made unforgettable by its director, Rocio Mayoral, who analyzes each client’s hair, and even their emotions, to deliver precisely what they need. Mayoral’s approach ensures that everyone who visits once wants to return. Beyond preparing you for any event, the experience includes coffee and a complimentary therapy session.
What sets Dessange apart is its process, which includes cutting hair in an upright position – “We cut hair standing up so we can see exactly the ideal length for the client” – and treatment times tailored to each individual. The philosophy, Pelayo adds, is not focused on rotation: “For us, the number of people isn’t important. For us, a person who walks through the door is our client.” Basic services start from 75 to 100 euros and require advance booking. The group plans to open new locations in other cities in the coming years.
The Pepito as a Deliberate Choice
In a diverse gastronomic landscape, Chez Pepito (Calle Cardenal Cisneros, 66) takes a contrasting approach: focusing almost exclusively on the beef pepito sandwich.
“The idea comes from something very personal. I’ve always been in love with the beef pepito; it seemed like a product with a very clear identity within the Madrid bar scene, but also with huge room for evolution,” explains its founder, Román Gil.
The intention, he adds, was clear: “I wanted to pay homage to that classic, respect its popular essence, but give it a twist: better meat, better bread, better sauces, the details. To sophisticate it without making it pretentious.” Chez Pepito maintains recognizable codes – a bar, high tables, constant movement – and has locations in Chamberí, Argüelles, and Montecarmelo. After its initial months, the project has built a loyal customer base. “When customers understand that and come back, you know you’re doing things right,” Gil summarizes.
The venue is ideal for a casual dinner with friends during the week. The average bill is between 18 and 20 euros, potentially reaching 30 euros with additional orders. Reservations are recommended on weekends.
Source: EL PAÍS
