Cortefiel and "Soul Food Nights" with Chef Mario Sandoval

The top Spanish chef, Mario Sandoval and Coque transform Cortefiel on "Soul Food Nights"

Cortefiel transformed their store on Serrano into a "Pop Up" restaurant in aim of raising money for Action Against Hunger

The charity event “SOUL FOOD NIGHTS”, which brought the most renowned chefs in Spain together at a selection of the best stores in Madrid's Salamanca district. Fashion and cuisine share the stage to showcase the best of Madrid for the charity.

For one night, Cortefiel's fashion area was briefly transformed into a restaurant of the utmost elegance. According to Mario, “We do this in luxury stores because we feel that fashion and cuisine share a bond. And what better place to do it than a fashion store like Cortefiel”.

During the event, a select group of diners enjoyed food prepared by Mario Sandoval, owner of the Michelin-starred restaurant "Coque", and his team.

http://www.restaurantecoque.com/

CORTEFIEL
http://cortefiel.com/

MAGNOLUZ and VA DE RETRO amazing vintage shop!

This is a real discovery!!! If you like vintage Marie and François Magnol - sister and brother- are designing and producing collectors pieces.
Their web is www.va-de-retro.es and they can be found in Madrid at Alejandro Villegas, 42.
MUF found them at the I LOVE RETRO FAIR.

I LOVE RETRO

I LOVE RETRO, the vintage furniture fair takes place in Madrid from the 18th to the 21st of October at the Chamartin Train Station. An initiative for lovers of vintage furniture and objects from the 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's. 4 days from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m

A second edition I LOVE RETRO will be a showcase for over a dozen companies from furniture to interior design. The stands will have all the look, touch, buy, advice sensations.

Everything is possible in I Love Retro. Countless objects and temptations of different styles and prices await the visitor. A great theme park and a unique opportunity to soak up this trend that has now become so popular.

Participating antiquarians and auctioneers from Spain, France, Belgium, Italy and the UK are among the 80 stands. Among them, The European, Reno, South Mahogany, Singulartmob, Va Retro, Madrid in Love, Non Vacui, Nicholas, Tado, La Recova or Poppy, all of Madrid and Athena Against Barcelona, Tokyo Story, and Paul Ziarsolo The cabin of the northern peninsula, The Kula and Judith Wells in London; Objetology Antwerp and Genoa Dolcemascolo Stefano.

Estación de Chamartín. Calle Agustín de Foxá s/n, Madrid. - Metro / tren / bus: Estación de Chamartín - Entrance fee 3 euros

www.iloveretro.es

MADRID SUNDAY SHOPPING

We went out today to check out the Madrid Sunday shopping organized in the Barrio Salamanca from May 27 to June 27.
Most of the shops are open and offering discounts and special prices. The bars are offering a beer and a tapa for 3€.

Every so often you can find a stand with these girls offering info- in English- and they can also find a cycle to take two to take up and down with your heavy shopping!

All over the Barrio Salamanca you´ll find lots of shoes, all designed by Zapatos de España or the Spanish footwear industry. On June 10 there is a photo competition!

What more can you ask for? Madrid, great shopping, discounts, prizes and great weather!!!

Shopin and Hato Spring party

We went to a great Spring party at the boutique HATO and organized by the personal shoppers SHOPIN.

Blanca and Ana Gordon, the brains behind SHOPIN http://madridisuserfriendly.com/shopin.html or their web: http://www.shopin.es/ are really good at finding all of Madrid´s secret spots.

HATO http://www.hatostyle.com/ing_hato_ingles.html is located at 21 Argensola and is built on three floors with a classic yet avant-garde atmosphere.

You can find fashion and accessories and different international firms such as Pyrus, Chemins Blancs, No Collection, Angel Jackson, Mauro Gasperi By Larin and the very special Spanish brands: Beba's Closet, Ophelia is Lost, Colour Nude, Ladybug and Gemma Su.

Shopin- tailor made personal shopping in Madrid!

Shopin is Spain's most established and biggest personal shopping companies with over 6 years experience. They know exactly what the customer wants and offer a personalised service tailored to the client. Shopin offers two services- Shopin Moda, dedicated to fashion and Shopin Deco, which helps you find the perfect look for your home. The company prides itself on being a group of specialists that analyse the latest trend and search for the most original and hidden shops. Their services are directed to companies, or individuals who travel a lot or who, simply, do not have time to spend on themselves. They pay attention to every single detail: picking up clients at their hotel, at their home or at their place of work and accompanying them on the chosen route, with coffee breaks or stops to have lunch in the most trendy restaurants in the city. Shopin also organizes private and corporate events where its knowledge of the latest international trends will make it a more enjoyable experience for those who want to do something different.




For more details visit www.shopin.es call +34-619 22 68 50 or email shopin@shopin.es or contact Kate at kate@madridisuserfriendly.com or +34 915627854,  if you would like MADRID IS USER FRIENDLY to give you a hand!!!

Osborne open a store in Madrid

Osborne, the sherry makers behind the famous black bull logo have just opened a gift store, Toro by Osborne. The shop is located in Calle Preciados- the main shopping area near Sol. You can find everything ranging from keyrings, to watches to motobike helmets and textiles; all bearing the iconic bull emblem. The store may have only been open a few days, but they are already reporting excellent trade and many visitors coming through their doors. The Osborne Group also plans to open similar stores in other towns and cities in the country.

The symbol of a nation

If you've ever travelled Spain, chances are you will have come across the Osborne black bull silhouette at the side of the road (here's a link to a map showing all of the locations). There are over 90 of them around the country since the first one was errected in 1957. It's perhaps one of the world's most famous advertising campaigns and the logo has since become a symbol for Spain appearing often on souvenirs and postcards.

To find out more about the Toro de Osborne range and to buy online, see their website.

The Mercado de San Antón- a traditional market with a modern twist

We visited the recently reopened San Antón food market in the trendy neighbourhood of Chueca to see what it had to offer, and walking around and seeing the food on show certainly made us feel hungry! The market is one of Madrid's oldest, but its renovation has brought the market into the 21st century and has created a space where you can not only buy food, but enjoy eating it as well. Given its sleek new makeover, the market may not exactly feel like an authentic market found in many of Madrid's neighbourhoods, but from wandering around it does seem more like a traditional market than the touristy Mercado San Miguel. You'll find your greengrocer, baker, butcher, dairy and a number of other stalls selling delicatessen products where you could do your daily shopping, yet still find something a little more special. Upstairs there is a mezzanine level offering a selection of quick eateries including tapas, sushi, oysters, Italian foods and a juice bar. On the very top floor is the restaurant, La Cocina de San Antón, which has a roof terrace giving views over the city.  The restaurant lets you choose food from the market and they cook it for you, or you can order from the menu.We've not tried it yet, but we've heard some fantastic things said about it from those who have eaten there.

Our verdict: the produce on sale did look very tempting, although you will pay more than in other places. If you want something cheaper and more authentcally madrileño, you might be better taking a look at the Mercado de las Maravillas or the Mercado de Cebada. We did a feature on these and other markets in Madrid a few weeks ago- Markets in Madrid.

Location: Mercado de San Antón, Calle Augusto Figueroa 24, metro Chueca (L5), Gran Vía (L1, L5) or Sevilla (L2)
Opening hours: marketplace: Mon-Sat 10am-10pm; mezzanine food stalls everyday 10am-midnight; restaurant: Sun-Thurs 10am-midnight and Fri/Sat 10am-1.30am

Markets in Madrid

There's no better way to get an insight into a place than visiting its markets, and Madrid has its fair share. Here are some of the best markets for you to explore in Madrid:

Mercado de San Miguel

This market specialising in gourmet food is very touristy and a little overpriced, but the food is great! It's located just a stone's throw from Plaza Mayor in an early 20th century wrought iron building. It's also one of Madrid's newest markets, opening only a couple of years ago after extensive renovation.  Here you can find excellent tapas, sea food (sushi), fruits and vegetables, cheeses, olives, preserves, typical sweets and wines. It's a good place to come for lunch as you can hop from stall to stall trying the different tapas (a tapa costs around 1-2€). We recommend the stall which sells 'papas arrugadas', salted boiled potatoes in a spicy sauce, a dish typical of the Canary Islands. It's perhaps not the best place to go if you're looking for everyday foods, but if you're looking for something special, it's worth taking a look. Location: Plaza de San Miguel (just off Calle Mayor). Metro: La Latina (L5) or Ópera (L2, L5, R).

The Mercado de San Miguel

Mercado de Maravillas

A gem of a place for those who know about it. Known in Spanish as the 'market of wonders', the market sells everything under the sun Being one of Madrid's biggest and best loved markets, many madrileños say 'if you can't find it go to the Mercado de Maravillas. If it's not there it doesn't exist'. Shopping here is much more authentic and cheaper than the Mercado de San Miguel, and here you will still be able to find typical produce from all corners of Spain. Expect friendly service and great value for money. Located at Bravo Murillo 122 in one of Madrid's typical suburbs. Metro: Cuatro Caminos (L1, L2, L6).

Mercado de Antón Martín

If you're looking to buy fish, this is place to come, although vegatables and meat are also sold here. Located in one of Madrid's central neighbourhoods, it's always bustling. Location: Calle Santa Isabel 5. Metro: Antón Martín (L1).

Shopping at a market in Madrid

Mercado de La Latina (la Cebada)

Another one of Madrid's traditional markets. Located in a very distinct 1960s building (make of it what you will), the market at La Latina has been part of the neighbourhood for centuries- the orignal and more more elegant market building was pulled down years ago. Here you will find fresh produce- meats, fish, vegatables, fruits, as well as homewear, clothes and other curiousities. Inside, the building looks dated (there are plans to rebuild) and many of the shops are tired looking, but you'll meet plenty of friendly locals and pay very little! Location: Plaza de la Cebada. Metro: La Latina (L5).

Mercado de la Paz

Another oldie and the market building was designed by Gustave Eiffel! Located in the upmarket Salamanca district, but despite its location, still is very down to earth. The market is well known for its produce including meats, fruits, fish, breads and excellent selection of European cheeses (look for the shop La Bouette). You can find some fantastic tapas here as well as other fine gourmet products.
Location: Calle Ayala 28. Metro: Serrano (L4).

Get 25% off at Cortefiel, Springfield, Pedro del Hierro and WomenSecret until 15th May

The Cortefiel Group  is offering a 25% discount voucher from May 5 to 15!!! It can be used at Cortefiel, Springfield, Pedro del Hierro and WomenSecret stores which are all part of the clothing group. Get hold of your voucher here

Unikum- great discounts on fashion labels!

Unikum is a very stylish store for women and men's branded clothes located in the heart of exclusive Salamanca. When we visited we found the store layout uncluttered and it had very modern decoration. We also liked the style of clothes- very young and up to the minute fashion. The best thing is, they have some fantasic discounts on at the moment, some including 70% off until the end of May.

The store is located at 120 Calle Lagasca (nearest metros Ruben Dario L5 or Núñez de Balboa L5 and L9). We recommend making a visit if you happen to be in Salamanca!


Here is their website!

MUF visits the PdH shop on Serrano in Madrid!!!

MUF thinks the Cortefiel brand and with it the PdH or Pedro del Hierro shops are top for shopping for clothes Made in Spain.
Maria Leon, the PdH PR Manager gave us an entry to the shop so we could film it... we want to show you their true quality.

Shopping in Madrid: Cortefiel

Our feature on shopping in Madrid continues! The Groupo Cortefiel is perhaps Spain's best loved chain of fashion stores due to their quality products, stylish designs and great prices for men and women. It was established back in 1880, and since then it's been a name you can trust. The group has four different stores; Cortefiel, Springfield, Pedro del Hierro and Women'secret. Cortefiel prides itself on classic and sophisticated design, whilst Springfield is aimed at the young, who want the latest fashions at affordable prices. Pedro del Hierro is synomymous with luxury, and their stores have a boutique layout. Lastly Womens'secret sells solely womens lingerie. You'll find plenty of the Cortefiel Group's stores in Madrid. 

Near the centre (Sol, Gran Vía etc...). These are all open on Sundays:

Cortefiel

Puerta del Sol

Cortefiel and Pedro del Hierro Menswear Gran Vía , 47

Springfield

Calle Gran Vía 76
Calle Preciados 13
 

Women'secret

Calle Arenal, 9
Plaza de Callao, 4
Calle Preciados, 13 


Around the Salamanca neighbourhood you will find (might not open Sundays):

Cortefiel

Calle Goya, 29
Calle Serrano, 40
Calle Serrano, 29

Pedro del Hierro
 

Calle Serrano, 24
Calle Serrano, 63 

Womens'secret

Calle Serrano 29
Calle Goya 51
 

Springfield

Pedro del Hierro/Cortefiel

 

Women'secret

Pedro del Hierro

MuF Recommends Barrats 1890- great leather products from Mallorca

We recently made a visit to the Barrats 1890 store at Claudio Coello 75 in the Salamanca district, which sells in shoes, bags and other leather accessories. This chain, founded by Miguel Llompart, prides itself on good tradition design and high quality, and all products are still made by artisans in Mallorca, an island known for its leather goods. We recommend the store for its stylish designs and quality of their products. What's more, they allow customers to enter with dogs!

PdeH launches its new online store

Following the June launch of the Springfield online store, Grupo Cortefiel has further consolidated its presence on the Internet with the launch of its e-shop at wwww.pedrodelhierro.com. The Group continues to move forward with its e-commerce strategy by incorporating more brands onto its online market and reaching an ever-wider target market.  

Pedro del Hierro launches its new online store

Grupo Cortefiel has further extended its Internet presence with the launch of the e-shop of its higher end brand at www.pedrodelhierro.com. This online store will initially operate in Spain, before expanding to take in other European markets such as the UK, Portugal, France and Belgium.  

The new PdH e-shop features practical pages that are easy to navigate and a user-friendly buying process for both the Man and Woman collections, including the new ‘PdH Sport’ line. “Our aim was to transfer the design concept of our physical stores to the online channel – in other words, the online store had to be elegant, spacious and easy to browse”, explains Patricia Benito, the Group’s E-commerce Director. “Customers have complete control over the process and can find out at any time how much they’ve spent or cancel products”, she adds.   

Apart from the online store, the new website features catalogues, videos and making ofs. It also positions the brand on the 2.0 Web through its presence on all the major social networks and interacting with users from around the world.  

The online store includes a series of  key features, including a ‘roll over’ type zoom to see the product close up without having to open new windows, and a permanently visible shopping list showing the total amount spent and photos of the products.

 

There is also a section showing a selection of matching items so you can create your own total looks and a section entitled ‘Just In!’ featuring all the latest catalogue arrivals.

“This launch is a further step towards achieving our aim of selling all our brands online. This project got off the ground with women’secret and Springfield, and will shortly be completed with the launch of the Cortefiel online store”.  

Pedro del Hierro has 386 points of sale. The Woman collection is on sale in independent stores as well as Cortefiel stores, whilst the PdH Man line is available exclusively in Cortefiel stores. PdH is present in 21 countries and is part of Grupo Cortefiel, a leader in the fashion retail industry with a network of 1,729 points of sale in 64 countries and four chains: Cortefiel, Pedro del Hierro, Springfield, and women’secret.  

Web: www.grupocortefiel.com

Where to buy typical Spanish food products in Madrid

Spain is a food lovers paradise and here you will find excellent hams; serrano, ibérico and bellota, with bellota having the highest quality. You will also find other types of meat products here such as lomo (fine cured pork), chorizo (spicy sausage), salamis, and morcilla (black pudding). The country also produces much of the world's olive oil; look out for brands such as Coosur, Hojiblanca and Carbonell. Castilla La Mancha, the region to the south of Madrid, produces very fine cheese known as manchego made from goats milk. It has a firm texture and comes in various levels of maturity. You will certainly find it in any café or restaurant in the city if you wish to try it.

Typical Spanish food products

There are many delicatessen shops around the city where you will find these products as well as many other specialities. The newly renovated San Miguel Food Market, an old wrought iron building just off Calle Mayor, should not be missed by anyone wants to discover the delicacies of Spain. Here you will find food from all over Spain and it's all excellent quality. You can hop between the stalls and buy a delicious tapa for around 1-2€, so it's also a good place for a cheap lunch. If you facy something a little less touristy and more local, try the Mercado de Maravillas, which is located in a typical Madrid suburb. This is where many madrileños come to shop and you will find great produce at lower prices. Its at Bravo Murillo 122,  a couple of kilometres from the centre, although easily accesible from Cuatro Caminos or Alvarado metros. If you want to try some of the traditional shops in Madrid (although a little touristy and overpriced), the delicatessen Lhardy (Carrera de San Jerónimo, near Sol), is Madrid institution and has been going since 1839. You could also try Fiambres La Madrileña (Arenal 18, near Sol and Opera) or Casa González Quesos y Fiambres (Leon 12 in Huertas). If you don't plan on buying anything, we recommend checking out the shopfront. The Museo del Jamón cafés sell ham products and there are many in the main tourist areas. They are quite dated and rather seedy, but it's quite a curiosity for tourists to see all the legs of ham hanging up. The gourmet section of El Corte Inglés is another place to try, although it does not have quite the same charm.

For cakes and other patisserie items, we recommend Mallorca on Calle Mayor on the corner with Sol. This is a very well known establishment in Madrid and has been going for many decades. Casa Mira (Carrera de San Jeronimo 30, near Sol) supplies cakes to the Royal Household and is famous for its nougats and festive sweets. Caramelos Paco (Toledo 55, La Latina) with its fantastic window display, and La Violeta (Plaza de la Canalejas 6, near Sol) are two very famous sweet shops in Madrid and both retain their traditional charm. La Violeta sells sugared almonds, chocolates and glazed fruits typical of the Madrid region.

Spain produces many high quality wines and is one of the world's biggest producers. The main wine producing regions are La Rioja, Rias Baixas and Ribera del Duero for reds and Penedès for whites. Tempranillo, Albariño and Garnacha are popular grape varieties although there are several hundred in Spain. The Catalonia region produces a wine made in the same way as champagne known as cava. It is much cheaper than champagne and many prefer the taste. Of course Spain is famous for its sherry (jerez), which is a fortified wine and is much sweeter than other wines. It comes from the region around Jerez and is popular with desserts.

In terms of what to look for, Crianza wines are the youngest and reservas are the most aged. As you can imagine, prices vary greatly, with vinos de mesa or table wines being the cheapest and denominación de origen calificada the most expensive. A good compromise in price and quality would be a vino de tierra. Some wines to look for include Torre Muga, Tres Picos, Viña Godeval, and Petalos. The Wine Doctor website has an excellent guide to Spanish wines if you wish to find out more.

To buy wines, Madrid Is User Friendly highly recommends La Vinia (Ortega y Gasset 16, Salamanca district). It is one of Spain's top wine merchants and you can also order their products online.

Spain's First Ever Vintage Fashion Fair -I Feria de Moda Vintage de Madrid

Taking place this week is Spain's first ever Vintage Fashion Fair- the Feria de Moda Vintage de Madrid. Lovers of vintage fashion will be able to find pieces from some of the country's top designers such as Lotta, Frivolité and L'Arca de la Núva,  who specialise in period costumes and accessories. The event is taking place at ModaShopping, near Nuevos Ministerios from 25th-28th November and is open until 10pm.

Shopping guide to Madrid

We have just added a great shopping guide to our website. It has everything you need to know about what to buy and where. You can see it here