Alejandra de Rojas reveals her most aristocratic and chic guide to Madrid

From her countryside to the capital and visiting the most exclusive places in the world, the businesswoman opens up her coolest agenda to us.

In Vanitatis by Isabel Ribada

A journalist by trade and an aristocrat, passionate about the countryside and fashion, Alejandra de Rojas is one of those who know how to appreciate the beauty of a well-tailored dress, the charm of a secluded hotel, or a jewel with a story. Today we delve into her personal life to discover which restaurant she likes to enjoy with friends —the one she used to frequent with her parents—where she buys her favorite furniture and books, and which destination she's already dreaming of returning to.

FOR DINNER

The tastiest breakfast: "The one at the Urso Hotel (Mejía Lequerica, 8) in Madrid, with its buffet full of tempting dishes, such as scrambled eggs accompanied by toast with avocado and tomato."

A culinary tribute: "If I want a good rice dish (one of my favorites), I go to Berlanga (Avda. Menéndez Pelayo, 41) and order their leek and monkfish paella. It's always lively and the food is impeccable. For dinner, I go to Horcher (Alfonso XII, 6) for its atmosphere, impeccable service, and sophisticated yet unpretentious cuisine. A classic I used to go to with my parents. My favorite dish? The steak tartare with soufflé potatoes."

Today, burger: "The best in Madrid are the ones I get at Freaks Burger (Gabriel Lobo, 20). Very important: order it with fries, onion rings and their renowned bullshot."

Snack route: "There's nothing better than venturing into Madrid's Malasaña neighborhood and heading to Bodega Ardosa (Colón, 13). Their potato omelet is unbeatable, and I love the lively atmosphere at lunchtime. For seafood in a traditional spot, try El Boquerón (Valencia, 14) in Lavapiés. Their langoustines, prawns, and oysters are top-notch."

For dessert: "I like the assorted pastries at La Duquesita (Fernando VI, 2) and if I want to buy a cake I have three star addresses: the chocolate ones, at La Mejor Tarta de Chocolate del Mundo (Alcalá, 89); the capuchina, at La Marina (Avda. Juan Carlos I), and the lemon one, at Balbisiana (Velázquez, 55)."

The best pasta: "The one they serve at La Tavernetta (Orellana, 17); I usually order eggplant rolls as a starter and fettuccine bottarga as a main course. Tiramisu is their star dessert."

Gourmet temple: "Hermanos Álvarez, in Madrid's Mercado de la Paz; I love their crackers to accompany the cheese, their smoked sardines, or their selection of chocolates. I'm a cheese lover and I find the best at Formaje (Plza. Chamberí, 9). My favorite is the Gruyère d'Alpage."

TO BUY

Fashion essentials: "I don't usually go shopping anymore and I buy everything online. I love the Sézane brand for its French-inspired clothes, and Aquazzura shoes and boots. My favorite multi-brand store is Experience 27, and for knitwear, the best option is my friend Clea Fitz-James Stuart's brand."

The most beautiful jewelry: "I find it at Del Páramo Vintage Joyas (Lencería, 1) in Valladolid. I adore their 1920s rings and any of their vintage Cartier or Rolex watches."

The flowers I like: "The floral arrangements from Floreale (Fuencarral, 115), with their exquisite taste, are my favorites."

Decorative details: "The home linens, placemats, handmade embroidered towels of unbeatable quality... are from Los Encajeros (Núñez de Balboa, 34). If I'm looking for beautiful decorative pieces, I go to Las Sillas de Manuel, and for children's furniture, I put myself in the hands of Susana, from Piccolo Mondo (Ayala, 43).

Favorite bookstore: "Panta Rhei (Hernán Cortés, 7), where I find the latest coffee table books, children's books and novels. Plus, they're dog friendly."

TO TAKE CARE OF MYSELF

Flawless hair: "I take care of my hair at Claudia di Paolo (claudiadipaolo.com). Their line of hair products is one of the best I've ever tried."

In short: "My true passion is horseback riding; I enjoy horseback riding tours in Spain, and Rafa, from Gredos a Caballo, is the right person to do them with. This year I'm going to do the Camino de Santiago with him and his team."

Beauty center: "To take care of my legs, I go to the Ortega y Gasset Clinic (Ortega y Gasset, 53) and I recommend the Emtone treatment, which firms and smooths the skin. For a facial or to have the Indiba method done, I go to Beldon Beauty (Lagasca, 9). For eyelash care and manicures (they last perfect for days), I go to Pestañas Premium (Serrano, 100)."

Beauty hits: "Givenchy concealers and eyeshadows, Dior nail polishes, Chanel lipsticks, and Guerlain perfumes. My latest discovery? Neu Lash Professional eyelash serum and the Sleep and Glow pillow, which prevents wrinkles from forming while you sleep."

FOR TRAVEL

Charming hotel: "Finca La Donaira (Camino de las Minas s/n), near Ronda, surrounded by nature and perfect for disconnecting by horse riding and enjoying excellent cuisine."

An afternoon of art: "When I want to visit a museum, I call Leticia from El Faro de Hopper (@farohopper) and she organizes the best routes for me through the Prado, the Thyssen or any art gallery."

Top show: "Circlassica, Miliki's dream", created by Emilio Aragón, a delight for the senses.

A destination in the world: "Chilean Patagonia, for its beauty and for the wonderful experience I had: visiting the Torres del Paine, seeing the glaciers, diving into its icy waters... I'm already dreaming of going back."

Where: Beldon Beauty

Lagasca Street, 9. Madrid.

Telephone: 912 45 81 71