Café Gijón, one of Madrid”s most iconic establishments, is set to undergo a significant transition as its current owners, the Escamilla family, have announced their decision to end their long-standing legacy. Located on the renowned Paseo de Recoletos, this café has been a central hub for artists, writers, and journalists, playing an essential role in the city”s literary, political, and social life.
This closure, however, is not permanent. The café will be sold to Grupo Capuccino, a company that operates numerous locations across Mallorca, Ibiza, Málaga, and Switzerland. Following the sale, extensive renovations will take place, with the café expected to reopen its doors in January.
The intention behind the renovation is to modernize the café while preserving its historical essence. A spokesperson from Grupo Capuccino expressed their satisfaction regarding the acquisition, stating, “We are excited about the operation and the vision for the project.” The café”s rich history dates back to 1914 when it was transferred to Benigno López Jabato, who oversaw a major renovation in 1925 that established its current appearance.
Since then, Café Gijón has been a gathering place for prominent figures in film and literature, hosting numerous significant events over the years. Its cultural impact is so profound that in 1949, director and actor Francisco Ayala established the national short novel award, Premio Café Gijón, in its honor, which continues to be awarded today.
As Madrid bids farewell to this historic café in its current form, the anticipation builds for the new chapter that awaits Café Gijón under its new ownership.
