In 2014, while on break from her law and economics studies at Paris’s Sorbonne University, the Madrid-born designer Maria de la Orden traveled to Peru with her parents. Having always expected her life to be spent crunching numbers and defending clients in court, she instead found herself captivated by South America’s textiles. Back home, she started a line of jackets as a hobby, calling it Mau Loa.
The response was overwhelming. Soon, she decided to dedicate herself to fashion full-time, rebranding the label under her own name. Along the way, she also teamed up with Barcelona-born entrepreneur Blanca Miró, launching La Veste, a womenswear label known for its playful tailoring, in 2018. Her wares—whether under her own brand or La Veste—have since been worn by everybody from Jeanne Damas to Camille Charrière.
Here, the designer shares her guide to the Spanish capital.
El Pescador
One of my all-time favorite restaurants for fresh fish and seafood in the city. A true Madrid classic. (marisqueriaelpescador.net)
Berenis
Tucked inside El Rastro, Madrid’s open-air flea market, this vintage furniture store is a trove of one-of-a-kind finds. (instagram.com)
Machado-Muñoz
A contemporary design gallery where architecture, art, and objects live in harmony. (casa-munoz.com)
Hotel Santo Mauro
A stunning hotel housed in a former duke’s palace. The beautiful garden is perfect for a quiet coffee or an afternoon drink. (marriott.com)
Pequeña Inglaterra Madrid
A tiny boutique that feels like a trip to the English countryside. Cozy, curated, and full of whimsy. (instagram.com)
Zuara Sushi
A temple of Japanese craftsmanship in the heart of Madrid. Sleek, serene, and an absolute treat if you’re into high-end sushi. (instagram.com)
Charrúa
Warm, wood-fired, and full of heart, Charrúa feels like home. A great place for grilled meats and good wine. (charruamadrid.com)
Formaje
More than a cheese shop, Formaje is a celebration of artisans and the quality of their crafts. (formaje.com)
Sorolla Museum
Once the home of the painter Joaquín Sorolla, this light-filled museum is intimate, inspiring, and radiant with Mediterranean sunshine—even in winter. (cultura.gob.es)
Real Jardín Botánico
A quiet oasis right by the Prado Museum. Wander among centuries-old trees, greenhouse orchids, and seasonal blooms. It’s the perfect reset. (rjb.csic.es)
You can explore our complete, constantly-updated guide to Madrid here
