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LICENSED Specialty Coffee: Vinyl Records Meet Artisan Brews

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Where specialty coffee meets vinyl culture in Madrid's most authentic café experience.

A distinctive Madrid coffee shop blending specialty espresso culture with vinyl record curation in the heart of Chamartín. LICENSED combines meticulously sourced beans with an eclectic music collection, creating a multisensory experience where coffee enthusiasts and music lovers converge. The intimate setting and passionate service make it a destination for those seeking authenticity beyond the ordinary café.

A brief summary to LICENSED specialty coffee

  • Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive during mid-morning or early afternoon for a more relaxed browsing experience; peak hours tend to concentrate between 9-10 AM and 5-6 PM on weekdays.
  • Ask staff for coffee origin and brewing method recommendations; the baristas possess genuine expertise and enjoy discussing their selections with engaged customers.
  • Browse the vinyl collection while sipping your coffee; the record curation reflects the owners' taste and often reveals emerging or overlooked artists worth discovering.
  • Note that the venue closes Sundays and operates with reduced hours on some weekdays; verify opening times before visiting, particularly on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  • Bring cash or confirm card payment options in advance; some specialty venues in Madrid still operate with limited digital payment infrastructure.
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Getting There

  • Metro

    Take Metro Line 10 toward Hospital Infanta Sofía and exit at Chamartín station. From there, walk approximately 8-10 minutes northeast through the neighborhood to reach Calle del Cardenal Silíceo. Journey time from central Madrid is typically 15-20 minutes depending on starting point.

  • Bus

    Multiple bus lines serve the Chamartín district. Lines 5, 14, and 61 provide direct access to the area. Journey times vary from 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and your starting location within Madrid. Check real-time schedules via Madrid's transit app for current arrivals.

  • Taxi or Ride-Share

    Ride-sharing apps and traditional taxis are readily available throughout Madrid. From central areas like Plaza Mayor or Retiro Park, expect 15-25 minutes travel time and costs between €8-15 depending on traffic conditions and time of day.

  • Walking

    If staying in nearby neighborhoods like Salamanca or Recoletos, LICENSED is accessible via a 20-30 minute walk. The route passes through pleasant urban streets with good pedestrian infrastructure, though Madrid's hills may affect walking comfort.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

  • Restrooms
  • Food Options
  • Seating Areas
  • Information Boards

Discover more about LICENSED specialty coffee

A Hybrid Haven for Coffee and Music Lovers

LICENSED represents a rare convergence of two passionate communities: specialty coffee aficionados and vinyl record collectors. Located on Calle del Cardenal Silíceo in Madrid's Chamartín district, this establishment transcends the conventional coffee shop model by integrating curated vinyl records into its core identity. The space functions simultaneously as a café and record store, creating an environment where customers can explore both exceptional coffee and carefully selected music.

Specialty Coffee Excellence

The coffee program at LICENSED reflects a commitment to quality and precision. The establishment sources specialty-grade beans and employs skilled baristas who understand extraction, temperature control, and the nuances of different brewing methods. Each cup represents intentional craftsmanship rather than mass production. The menu likely features single-origin selections, seasonal offerings, and classic espresso-based drinks prepared with technical expertise. Customers consistently praise the coffee quality, noting its balance and complexity.

Vinyl Records as Cultural Anchor

The record store component distinguishes LICENSED from typical specialty cafés. The vinyl collection serves not merely as decoration but as a genuine retail offering and cultural statement. This integration suggests the owners view music and coffee as complementary experiences—both requiring knowledge, appreciation, and discovery. Visitors can browse records while enjoying their beverages, creating extended browsing sessions and deeper engagement with the space.

Atmosphere and Service Philosophy

User feedback emphasizes the "lovely atmosphere" and "great service," indicating staff who understand hospitality as an extension of the product quality. The environment balances professionalism with approachability, welcoming both casual visitors and dedicated enthusiasts. The intimate scale of the venue fosters genuine interactions between staff and customers, moving beyond transactional exchanges toward meaningful engagement.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in Chamartín, a central Madrid neighborhood, LICENSED occupies a strategic position accessible to both local residents and visitors. The specific address on Calle del Cardenal Silíceo places it within a walkable urban context, making it a natural stop for those exploring the district or commuting through the area.

Community and Cultural Significance

Beyond serving coffee and selling records, LICENSED functions as a cultural gathering point. The combination of specialty coffee and vinyl records attracts individuals who value intentionality, quality, and aesthetic experience. This positioning creates a distinct identity within Madrid's café landscape, appealing to those seeking alternatives to mainstream coffee chains.

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