Ceferino: An Argentine Grill with a Mexican Soul

In the heart of Madrid’s bustling Barrio de Salamanca, the newly opened Ceferino restaurant transcends the simple act of dining. Conceived as a multisensory experience, this space celebrates Mexican craftsmanship while paying homage to Argentine roots.

Estudio Jorge Campos brought this project to life with a design rich in textures and contrasts, ensuring that every corner of the restaurant feels like a unique environment. Every design element was carefully considered, blending acoustics, ambiance, textures, and aromas into a tribute to Argentine culture. The result is an immersive experience from the moment diners walk through the door.

Ceferino invites its visitors on a captivating journey, where each space offers a new discovery. With high ceilings that add a sense of grandeur and a rich palette of materials such as wood, leather, and warm tones, the restaurant creates an atmosphere that is both cozy and sophisticated. From the outset, the senses are awakened by the smoky aroma that evokes the stuccoed false ceilings. The decor pays homage to the tradition of Argentine countryside grilling, featuring wooden columns and beams, and charred wood walls reflected in elements like the bar’s latticework and the interior paneling. Every detail contributes to making Ceferino one of Madrid’s most talked-about spots this season. In total, approximately 150 square meters were remodeled, including the terrace.

Given the fragmented layout of the space, the design team chose not to unify the aesthetic but instead to empower each area with unique elements, creating a sequential aesthetic reminiscent of a theater. The journey culminates in a secret bar, a hidden space with bold, contrasting design. Rich colors and warm textures set the stage for intimate and lively moments, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere.

One of Ceferino’s most outstanding design features is the integration of elements crafted by Mexican artisans. The luminaires, some as tall as two meters and as wide as four, were made using local materials like clay, blown glass, linen, and brass. In the main dining area, an artisanal lamp crafted in Mexico evokes the appearance of "fire pyrite," composed of over 50 slats with textures ranging from fine to coarse and smooth hammering. This area also features a modular table, formed by an inverted "U"-shaped metal beam with wooden boards mounted on rails. Depending on the need, the boards can be configured as eight tables for two or combined into one large table for sixteen, completing the space with both functionality and beauty.

Other spaces draw inspiration from the countryside and agricultural estates. For example, the area leading to the theatrical finale uses window modulation to create a substructure of wooden beams and columns, producing a perspective effect that visually expands the space. To evoke the ambiance of the Argentine countryside, materials such as wood, stone, and industrial metal accents were used for the beam and column joints. The decor incorporates rustic elements like glass barrels and ceramic vessels.

The success of projects like Ceferino highlights the growing recognition of Mexican design on the international stage. By combining local resources with traditional techniques, Mexican artisans are redefining luxury in interior design. Their work transcends borders, proving that heritage craftsmanship is not only relevant but essential in today’s increasingly homogeneous and fast-paced world.

Ceferino is a shining example of how Mexican craftsmanship can organically integrate into global design. From the suspended luminaires to the warm tones of wood and leather, the restaurant stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Mexican artisans. This project not only celebrates cultural roots but also demonstrates how traditions can evolve and adapt to resonate with a global audience.