Oliva, Vallehermoso Market

Oliva is Esther’s maternal surname, and she pays tribute to her mother through her stall selling the very best of her land (and her family): Andalusian extra virgin olive oil. In this little corner of the market, you can try the best olive oil in the whole neighborhood, from a selection of different varieties: Picual, Arbequina, Royal, Hojiblanca, Frantoio, Koroneiki, etc. They are all produced using traditional production methods, which Esther knows inside out. She also sells “regañas” (little crackers) from Andújar, cakes made with extra virgin olive oil by Andrés Gaviño, partridge-stuffed piquillo peppers, Calaveruela yogurts (the most delicious, magical yogurts from the Valle del Guadiato in Fuente Obejuna, Cordoba), various different sherry vinegars such as Casa del Agua Reserva, and, last but not least, the unique organic balsamic vinegar by Un Olivo (in Alcala la Real, Jaen), as well as a range of other products.

A feature of Madrid’s Chamberí neighborhood since 1933, the Vallehermoso Market’s raison d’etre is the same as when it first opened its doors to the public: selling quality products. However, today it does so under a new business model in which customers can not only shop there, but also go out for tapas, lunch, or dinner at one of its many catering outlets.