Abalú

Abalú Review

Each of the 24 lodging options in this hotel in the heart of one of the city's youngest and liveliest neighborhoods is a small oasis of singular design. Designer Luis Delgado's mission is to make each room special, with a hodgepodge of interesting accents such as vintage telephones, black stenciled butterflies scattered along the walls of the White Room, or the Thai stone bathtub in one of the junior suites. The apartments (six with kitchen, two without), in a separate building across the street, are a step less daring in terms of decor, but are sizable, and some have a Jacuzzi. The largest apartment fits up to nine people. If you want to really feel Malasaña's vibe and aren't daunted by noise, ask for one of the hotel rooms facing the street; the two apartment penthouses, on the other hand, are good for families. The hotel has a café but it doesn't serve full meals.