Pablo Iglesias, founder of Podemos, and former deputy prime minister, is now involved in a new venture: a tavern called Taberna Garibaldi in the Lavapiés neighborhood of Madrid. In a promotional video, Iglesias humorously recounts answering the phone and taking a customer’s order until she recognizes his voice, leading to shared laughter. The tavern serves dishes and cocktails with revolutionary names like mojito Fidel and daiquiri Che, as well as historical references in its menu items such as enchiladas Viva Zapata. The establishment has garnered significant attention on social media due to Iglesias’ involvement and the leftist ideology reflected in its offerings.
Despite concerns about potential attacks against the tavern, given Iglesias’ status as a target of the right and far-right, reactions on social media vary from criticism to humorous comments about the Communist-themed establishment. The relationship between anarchists and communists has historically been complex, with some expressing worry over possible vandalism or harassment, referencing past incidents involving Iglesias. The tavern’s Durruti dry martini, named after anarchist Buenaventura Durruti, has already led to threats and graffiti demanding its removal, highlighting the tensions surrounding the intersection of political ideologies and public spaces.
Critics and supporters alike engage with the concept of a Communist-themed tavern, with reactions ranging from concerns about safety to playful jokes about the establishment serving as a “revolving door” for politicians. Journalist and political analyst Estefanía Molina jests about the situation, quipping that Yolanda Díaz’s previous emphasis on closing times for hospitality businesses in Madrid now makes sense in light of recent events. The online discourse reflects a mix of amusement, solidarity, and apprehension over the potential consequences of opening a politically charged establishment in a polarized climate.
Taberna Garibaldi’s menu offers reasonably priced items typical of a central Madrid location, with cocktails priced at nine euros and a variety of dishes ranging from pasta to gelato. The establishment’s Communist-themed decor and references, such as naming a table after actress Pepa Flores and including historical figures like Lola Gaos, cater to a specific clientele and engage with leftist iconography. Despite some backlash related to the Durruti dry martini and concerns about potential attacks, the tavern’s unique concept and Iglesias’ involvement have generated significant buzz and attention, adding to the controversy surrounding the intersection of politics and hospitality.
The incident surrounding the Durruti dry martini being targeted for removal due to its association with an anarchist revolutionary reflects the high tensions in the context of the tavern’s opening. The playful yet politically charged atmosphere of Taberna Garibaldi, coupled with Iglesias’ prominent role in its promotion, has sparked a mix of reactions ranging from threats to humorous commentary online. The tavern serves as a focal point for discussions about political symbolism in public spaces and the challenges of blending ideology with commercial ventures in a highly polarized political landscape.
