Pub El Pirata — Restaurant in Madrid

I recently visited bar with friends, hoping to enjoy a fun evening of drinks and dancing. Unfortunately, what started as a promising night quickly turned into a frustrating experience that I feel compelled to share.

Upon entering, we paid a 10-euro cover charge, which included a complimentary shot. We were having a great time dancing near the bar when a group of friendly girls approached us. They struck up a conversation and seemed genuinely nice, so when they asked if I wanted a shot that was already poured and on the bar, I thought it was just for me. They then asked my friends if they wanted a free shot, and they all agreed. I ended up paying for my shot, thinking it was a small price for a fun night.

Things took a turn when the same girls later asked if I wanted a glass of champagne. I said yes, and again, I paid for it, thinking it was all part of the fun. However, after leaving, I checked my bank statement and was shocked to find that I had been charged 40 euros for the shots, an additional 60 euros for nothing, and a staggering 120 euros for the glass of champagne!

I immediately reached out to the bar via email, hoping for a refund, but I am yet to receive a response. This experience has left me feeling scammed and frustrated.

I urge anyone considering a visit to this bar to think twice. It’s clear that this place preys on tourists, and I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what I did.

If the bar do refund me, I will be happy to change my review to positive, but until then BEWARE, DO NOT GO THERE!!!

Update: it took some time, but eventually they were helpful and gave me some of the money...

Avoid this place at all costs. The club is filled with women working on commission who constantly pressure you to buy them drinks, which are always champagne (30 euros), and they frequently ask for bongs (60 euros).

Responding to their reply: If you’re not benefiting from this, then take action against those who are engaging in these practices. Why is the price tripled when these women place the order? This is outrageous. I hope you’re held legally accountable...

Do not go here! The name fits the business very well, pirates trying to steal your money. The owners pay girls to have you buy them expensive drinks. They don’t show you how much they charge, they just ask to tap not knowing how much they’re charging you. All the women there literally are working to have you buy drinks to drive the revenue of this business. This is not right, they will try to deny it but the truth will come...