An event with the potential to change attitudes toward local shops and crafts is starting in the Spanish capital. A new film series at Cines Embajadores blends a passion for cinema with the art of pastry-making, placing a spotlight on supporting small businesses and the traditions of Madrid’s neighborhoods. For locals, this is more than just a cultural event—it’s a chance to see the role of neighborhood bakeries and their artisans from a fresh perspective.
Cinema and Sweets
From February 16 to March 16, Cines Embajadores (Glorieta de Santa María de la Cabeza, 5) will host the ‘Pastelerías de barrio’ series—a line-up of films celebrating the world of baked goods and desserts. Every Monday, viewers will enjoy films where the kitchen becomes a stage for human stories, with aromas and textures woven into the plot. The program includes titles like ‘Chocolat,’ ‘Una pastelería en Tokio,’ ‘Ratatouille,’ and others, where gastronomy transforms into art and a source of inspiration.
What sets this project apart isn’t just the selection of films, but the post-screening meetups with Madrid’s renowned pastry chefs. Among the guests: La Sorianita, Motteau Pastelería, Longinos, and Pan Dome. Each one is a symbol of their neighborhood, a keeper of unique recipes and traditions. After the movies, attendees can discover the secrets behind signature desserts, hear stories of family bakeries, and ask the masters their questions.
Inspiration for Neighborhoods
Organizers emphasize that the goal of the series is not just to entertain, but also to remind people of the importance of supporting local businesses. At a time when large chains are pushing out small shops, such initiatives help preserve the city’s gastronomic diversity. The film screenings are shown in their original versions with Spanish subtitles, attracting both local and international audiences.
Each session features tastings and discussions where attendees can meet the artisans and sample their signature creations. For example, Motteau Pastelería is renowned for its lemon pie, Longinos for its mini palmeras, and Pan Dome for its unique spherical croissant that has become the bakery’s signature treat. La Sorianita, established in 1955, carries on the family business tradition, passing down recipes from generation to generation.
Calendar and details
The series opens on February 16 with the screening of the Japanese drama “Una pastelería en Tokio” directed by Naomi Kawase. After the film, the finalist of the VII Madrid Best Christmas Cake Championship — La Magdalena de Proust — will share professional insights and talk about the subtleties of the craft. On February 23, audiences will see “Repostero y Chef” in collaboration with Pan Dome; on March 2, “La mejor receta” featuring Longinos; and on March 9, “Chocolat” in tandem with La Sorianita. The series concludes on March 16 with “Una pastelería en Notting Hill” and a special event with Motteau Pastelería.
Tickets for each session cost 7 euros and are available both at the box office and online. Organizers note that the event is designed for a broad audience: from arthouse cinema enthusiasts to dessert lovers and supporters of small businesses. Attention to detail, a cozy atmosphere, and the opportunity to interact with true masters make this series special for Madrid.
Cultural change
The emergence of such initiatives in Madrid reflects a broader trend toward rethinking urban traditions and supporting local projects. In February this year, the capital already impressed with the scale of its cultural events, when major cities in Spain introduced new formats for winter festivities, combining gastronomy, art, and sports. These projects are becoming not only a source of entertainment but also a tool to strengthen ties between residents and their neighborhoods.
In recent years, Spain has seen a growing interest in themed film screenings, where audiences can not only watch movies but also join discussions, tastings, and workshops. Barcelona and Valencia have already hosted festivals dedicated to cuisine and crafts, while in Seville, gastronomic evenings have drawn full houses. These events help develop local tourism and foster a new approach to urban traditions by bringing generations together and creating a unique environment for communication and sharing experiences.
