The Barcelona & Madrid Matchbook Lists
Restaurants, bars, coffee shops, hotels & stores with matchbooks
Photography by OH, WHAT A MATCH! - Cecconi’s, Barcelona
Hola dear phillumenists!
Euro Summer is officially here—and with it, that unmistakable pull to soak in long evenings, sip something cold under bougainvillea-covered terraces, and, of course, hunt for beautiful matchbooks along the way. This month of June, we’re highlighting two of Spain’s most iconic cities: Barcelona and Madrid. Even though this is a short list, it’s full of under-the-radar gems and exclusive finds that make it all the more special.
Barcelona and Madrid are two cities with totally different energies—Barcelona feels laid-back and coastal, Madrid is sharp and cosmopolitan—but both are rich with design-forward bars, buzzy restaurants, and boutique hotels that don’t skip the details. Including the kind we’re after: well-made, collectible matchbooks that capture the vibe of the place in one little box.
Start in Barcelona, where you can stroll through the Gothic Quarter in full Euro Summer mode—linen on, sunglasses out, ice-cold Sangria in hand. For matchbook lovers, Cecconi’s Barcelona, tucked inside Soho House, is a must: they offer a sleek, minimalist matchbook that perfectly matches their polished Italian-meets-Mediterranean vibe. Another standout is the award-winning cocktail bar Dr. Stravinsky, hidden down a narrow alleyway in El Born. Not only is their cocktail list wildly inventive, but they also offer branded matchbooks that feel just as thoughtful and design-driven as their drinks.
In Madrid, the city turns up the heat—especially in summer when the streets stay alive long after dark. One of the most exciting stops for phillumenists is Casa Salesas, a chic spot offering brunch, cocktails, and dinners in a beautifully designed space that comes alive with live DJ sessions every night. For a stylish dinner-and-drinks spot, head to Llama Inn—the NYC favorite now has a Madrid outpost with bold interiors, an innovative menu, and beautifully designed matchbooks to take home as souvenirs.
Whether Spain is your next stop or just a daydream on your wanderlust wishlist, we hope this inspires your next Euro Summer stop. And like always, stay on the lookout! Some of the best matchbooks appear where you least expect them—resting on a cocktail tray, peeking out from the front desk, or slipped alongside your espresso bill.
Let us know if you’ve spotted anything good in Barcelona or Madrid—we love hearing from you, and your tips help us keep this series up and running.
Wishing you lots of golden hours, late dinners, and a pocket full of stylish European match designs.
Besitosss xx
Nadia & Alice