Are you planning a trip to Barcelona? If so, you’re in for a delicious treat. From traditional tapas to modern interpretations, the city is full of unique flavors and exciting dishes to explore. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide where to eat in Barcelona.
That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best restaurants and places to eat in the city. Whether you’re looking for authentic Spanish cuisine or something new and experimental, there’s something here for everyone. Read on to find out more about the culinary scene in Barcelona and see where to eat on your next visit!
Barcelona’s best restaurants
There are a lot of great places to eat in Barcelona, but these are some of our favorites. For a casual meal, we love La Boqueria. This market is full of stalls selling amazing food, and you can eat right at the counter. For something a little more upscale, check out Alkimia. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern Catalan cuisine with a twist. And for an unforgettable dining experience, make a reservation at Paco Meralgo.
The classic tapas, canapés, and well-known dishes are approached differently at Paco Meralgo, which has the spirit of a classic bar but a twenty-first-century ambiance and décor. Large picture windows, standard counters, and a cozy dining area all go along with this design, which aims to be both casual and classy at the same time.
Barcelona’s best bars
Barcelona is a city with a great nightlife scene, and there are plenty of bars to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a few drinks with friends or somewhere to dance the night away, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Barcelona. Here are some of the best bars in the city:
El Buenavista: This bar is located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter and is one of the most popular places to drink in Barcelona. The atmosphere is lively and there’s always a good selection of beers on tap.
Negroni: The Negroni is a trendy pub with a traditional feel. Stop searching for a written cocktail list and start chatting with one of the expert bartenders; they’ll make you a drink that you won’t soon forget. If they live up to their name, you can count on a Negroni cocktail that will send shivers down your spine; they also serve tasty variations on the classic Moscow Mule and Whiskey Collins.
Vai Moana: Vai Moana, fronting the famed Bogatell Beach, is a great place to relax with a drink as the sun sets over the water. This local favorite is loved for its kind staff and quaint, Polynesian-inspired decor, making it perfect for families and groups of all ages. The fresh Mediterranean and foreign meals on the menu are particularly great for kids, thus the restaurant is popular with families.
Barcelona’s best cafes
Barcelona is home to some of the best cafes in the world. Here are our top picks for the best places to grab a coffee in Barcelona:
1. Cafes El Magnifico – This popular cafe is known for its excellent coffee and friendly staff. The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for people-watching.
2. Caffeine – This hipster cafe is located in the trendy Born district and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The coffee is excellent and they also have a great selection of pastries and sandwiches.
3. Sant Just Desvern – This hidden gem is located just outside of Barcelona and is worth the trip if you’re looking for amazing coffee. The coffee shop has a cozy atmosphere and the staff is very friendly.
4. La Colmena – This cafe is one of the most popular in Barcelona and it’s easy to see why. The coffee is excellent, the food menu is mouth-watering, and the atmosphere is perfect for spending an afternoon with friends.
5. Cup & Cake – This cute little cafe specializes in cupcakes and coffees. The cupcakes are delicious and they have a great selection of coffees to choose from.
How to find the best food in Barcelona
Barcelona is a foodie city with endless options for every taste. To make your decision-making process easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat in Barcelona.
1. For traditional Catalan cuisine: Can Roca
2. For Spanish tapas: Bodega Sepulveda
3. For Mediterranean fare: Alkimia
4. For modern Spanish cuisine: Asador de Aranda
5. For international cuisine: Paco Meralgo
6. For vegetarian and vegan food: Flax & Kale
7. For dessert: Pastisseria Escribà
Tastes may differ between people, but we are sure you will find your favorite place to eat in Barcelona!
Tips for eating out in Barcelona
If you’re looking for a delicious meal while in Barcelona, there are plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. But if you’re on a budget, eating out can be a bit of a challenge. Here are some tips for finding great places to eat without breaking the bank:
1. Look for lunch specials. Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus with smaller portions and fewer choices.
2. Ask locals for recommendations. Chances are they know some hidden gems that aren’t too touristy or expensive.
3. Avoid dining in the busiest areas. Restaurants near popular attractions tend to be more costly because they know tourists will pay more. Instead, venture off the beaten path to find somewhere more authentic and affordable.
4. Stick to simple dishes. Ordering a dish with lots of ingredients will inevitably cost more than something simpler like a sandwich or salad.
5. Share! If you’re with someone else, split an entrée or dessert so you can try a few different things without spending too much money.
Comprehensive list of best restaurants in Barcelona
1. El Celler de Can Roca
- Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, 17007 Girona (about 1.5 hours from Barcelona, but worth the trip)
- Description: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is run by the Roca brothers and is considered one of the best in the world. It offers a unique dining experience with a blend of traditional Catalan flavors and cutting-edge techniques.
- History: Opened in 1986, the restaurant has consistently been ranked among the best in the world, including being named the World’s Best Restaurant multiple times.
- Type of Menu: Innovative Catalan cuisine with tasting menus that change seasonally.
- Average Prices: Tasting menu €195-€250 per person.
- Popularity: Extremely popular, with a long waiting list for reservations.
2. Tickets
- Location: Av. del Paraŀlel, 164, 08015 Barcelona
- Description: A playful, high-energy tapas bar by the famous Adrià brothers, known for their creativity and innovation in the culinary world.
- History: Opened in 2011, Tickets quickly became a hotspot for food enthusiasts looking for a fun and whimsical dining experience.
- Type of Menu: Modern tapas with a focus on molecular gastronomy and avant-garde techniques.
- Average Prices: €100-€150 per person.
- Popularity: Very popular, often fully booked months in advance.
3. Can Solé
- Location: Carrer de Sant Carles, 4, 08003 Barcelona
- Description: Located in the heart of Barceloneta, Can Solé is a traditional seafood restaurant that has been serving locals and tourists alike for over a century.
- History: Established in 1903, it has maintained its reputation as one of the best places for seafood in the city.
- Type of Menu: Traditional Catalan seafood dishes, including paella, fideuà, and suquet (fish stew).
- Average Prices: €40-€60 per person.
- Popularity: A well-loved classic, particularly popular with locals.
4. Bar Mut
- Location: Pau Claris, 192, 08037 Barcelona
- Description: A charming, upscale tapas bar offering a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The atmosphere is cozy, with an elegant twist.
- History: Opened in 2005, Bar Mut has become a staple for those seeking high-quality tapas in a refined setting.
- Type of Menu: Spanish and Catalan tapas with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
- Average Prices: €40-€70 per person.
- Popularity: Very popular among both locals and tourists, often packed, especially in the evenings.
5. Quimet & Quimet
- Location: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25, 08004 Barcelona
- Description: A tiny, standing-room-only tapas bar known for its montaditos (small open-faced sandwiches) and conservas (tinned seafood).
- History: Family-run since 1914, this bar has a loyal following and is considered one of Barcelona’s hidden gems.
- Type of Menu: Montaditos, tapas, and a wide selection of wines and vermouth.
- Average Prices: €20-€30 per person.
- Popularity: Hugely popular despite its small size, with locals and tourists flocking here for a quick, delicious bite.
6. Bar Canete
- Location: Carrer de la Unió, 17, 08001 Barcelona
- Description: A lively tapas bar offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes in a bustling atmosphere. The bar area is perfect for watching the chefs in action.
- History: Opened in the early 2000s, Bar Canete has become a favorite spot for those looking for authentic Catalan cuisine with a modern twist.
- Type of Menu: Catalan tapas, seafood, and traditional dishes like Iberian ham and croquettes.
- Average Prices: €40-€60 per person.
- Popularity: Very popular, often crowded, especially during dinner hours.
7. La Paradeta
- Location: Various locations, including Carrer Comercial, 7, 08003 Barcelona (El Born)
- Description: A self-service seafood restaurant where you choose your seafood from the counter, and it’s cooked fresh for you on the spot.
- History: Founded in 1994, La Paradeta has become a go-to spot for seafood lovers looking for a casual, affordable meal.
- Type of Menu: Fresh seafood cooked to order, with options like clams, prawns, squid, and fish.
- Average Prices: €20-€35 per person.
- Popularity: Popular among locals and tourists for its fresh, reasonably priced seafood.
8. El Quim de la Boqueria
- Location: Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, La Rambla, 91, 08002 Barcelona
- Description: A bustling market stall located inside La Boqueria Market, offering a wide range of tapas made with market-fresh ingredients.
- History: Opened in the early 1980s, El Quim de la Boqueria is a family-run business that has become a must-visit for foodies exploring the market.
- Type of Menu: Market-driven tapas, with dishes like fried eggs with baby squid and grilled foie gras.
- Average Prices: €20-€40 per person.
- Popularity: Extremely popular, especially during peak market hours, so be prepared to wait for a seat.
9. Disfrutar
- Location: Carrer de Villarroel, 163, 08036 Barcelona
- Description: A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its avant-garde, multi-course tasting menus that offer a creative twist on Mediterranean cuisine.
- History: Opened in 2014 by former chefs from El Bulli, Disfrutar has quickly gained a reputation as one of Barcelona’s top fine dining establishments.
- Type of Menu: Tasting menus with innovative, artfully presented dishes.
- Average Prices: €150-€250 per person.
- Popularity: Very popular, with reservations needed well in advance.
10. Cal Pep
- Location: Plaça de les Olles, 8, 08003 Barcelona
- Description: A lively, casual tapas bar near the Gothic Quarter, known for its fresh seafood and bustling atmosphere.
- History: Opened in 1977, Cal Pep has remained a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of authentic Barcelona.
- Type of Menu: Traditional Catalan tapas and seafood.
- Average Prices: €30-€50 per person.
- Popularity: Consistently popular, with a wait for a seat during peak hours.
These restaurants offer a great mix of traditional and modern dining experiences, showcasing the rich culinary culture of Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for high-end gastronomy or a casual tapas bar, these places are sure to provide a memorable meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a lot of great places to eat in Barcelona no matter what your budget is. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes and bars, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re after traditional Spanish cuisine or something more experimental, use this guide to help you find the best food in Barcelona. Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of lunch specials and sharing dishes if you’re on a budget. Bon Appetit!