Cover What to eat and where to go in Barcelona (Photo: Shutterstock)
What to eat and where to go in Barcelona (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Here’s a slice of Barcelona's culinary charm where honest and simple ingredients are elevated by bold, unforgettable flavours
When you arrive in Barcelona, the first thing you should do is adjust your dining clock and learn to eat the way the locals do: at your own leisure. Take your time…
Locals embrace a relaxed, social dining style, and meals here are famously late. Lunches are unhurried and start around 2-3pm, dinners start at 9-10pm and stretch into late blurry hours of the night, and weekends are a widespread of long, lingering meals.
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Between and beyond main meals, tapas (small plates) are enjoyed at various times of the day as a flexible dining option. People here take pleasure in sharing food and conversations with family and friends. Tapas alone would capture the heart and spirit of eating well in this city.
Above Tapas are small portions of food eaten between or before meals and they include anything from a bowl of olives to a plate of mussels (Photo: Pexels)
Tapas are small portions of food eaten between or before meals and they include anything from a bowl of olives to a plate of mussels (Photo: Pexels)
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Tapas bars offer the classic Spanish experience, where diners gather around high tables to share plates of gambas (prawns), chorizo (pork sausages), and patatas bravas (spicy potatoes). These go well paired with refreshing Spanish hallmarks like cava and vermouth or Aperol Spritz, which, despite its Italian origins, the locals love for its refreshing, zesty notes.
Deeply rooted in Mediterranean influences, the variety of cuisine here means there is something for every palate and it can be overwhelming. Boasting this rich variety and with an array of choices at every calle (street) in the city, even the most ardent food enthusiast might find it challenging to know where to begin.
This guide then serves as a starting point, highlighting some of the city’s essential culinary spots that are favourites of tourists and locals alike.
FOR TAPAS
Tapas 24
Located just an 11-minute walk from the iconic Casa Mila (La Pedrera), Tapas 24 is a lively homage to Catalonian tapas culture. This spot offers traditional tapas with a modern twist and is most known for its unforgettable "Bikini" sandwich—a sophisticated, truffle-infused take on the humble ham-and-cheese—and the indulgent McFoie Burger. A reliable spot for anyone looking to experience tapas close to the heart of Barcelona's landmarks.
Carrer de la Diputació, 269, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Can Paixano
Tucked away in Ciutat Vella, Can Paixano, or “La Xampanyeria”, is renowned for its no-frills, and bustling atmosphere. Here, a glass of its house-made cava can be enjoyed for as little as €2. The joint is always shoulder-to-shoulder packed with locals who flock here for its rustic sandwiches and simple tapas. A great spot for authentic tapas that won’t break the bank.
Carrer de la Reina Cristina, 7, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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Cal Pep
If you like seafood, Cal Pep is revered for its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite menu crafted around fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its interactive dining experience, guests sit at the bar, entrusting the chefs to serve up dishes like razor clams, octopus, and fried peppers. Its fame often leads to a queue inside and outside the restaurant, especially for those seeking a seat at the bustling bar. As such, reservations are recommended, but even if you must wait, the experience is well worth it.
Placa de les Olles, 8, 08003 Barcelona
FOR PAELLA & BLACK RICE
Colom
Dive into flavor with Colom’s iconic paella and rich black rice in the heart of the Gothic Quarter
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Colom is a standout for its iconic paella and arroz negro (black rice) dishes, drawing a crowd that eagerly gathers before noon to ensure a table. Its aromatic seafood paella is beloved for its depth of flavour, while the black rice, a Catalonian speciality infused with squid ink, is a must-try for adventurous palates. Located in the historic Gothic Quarter, the restaurant prides itself on honouring traditional recipes using fresh ingredients. The cosy interior design and friendly staff also create an inviting atmosphere for diners to enjoy.
Carrer dels Escudellers, 33, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
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FOR PERUVIAN CUISINE
Maymanta Rooftop Terrace
Barcelona’s culinary scene has embraced global flavours, and Maymanta Rooftop Terrace showcases Peruvian cuisine with flair. Maymanta’s dishes highlight Peruvian staples like ceviche, which you should pair with something from their Pisco Sour—Peru’s national drink—menu. The house-baked bread which is served warm and fragrant, is another highlight, inviting diners to enjoy the essence of Maymanta’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Pl. de Pius XII, 4, Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
FOR MEAT LOVERS
Sagardi
Located in the Gothic Quarter, Sagardi combines rustic charm with Basque culinary tradition, making it a must-visit for meat lovers. It specialises in Basque cuisine with a strong focus on grilled meats. Known for its impressive selection of charcoal-grilled meats, Sagardi’s menu features succulent cuts that are cooked to perfection. The house specialty, txuletón—a thick, aged steak—is highly recommended, offering a robust, smoky flavour that lingers long after the last bite.
Carrer de l'Argenteria, 62, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
FOR DESSERTS
Dolceria De La Colmena
For dessert aficionados, Dolceria De La Colmena is one of Barcelona’s oldest patisseries, renowned for its artisanal sweets. The charming establishment offers traditional Spanish confections, from turrón to almond pastries. Try the famed xuixo de crema, a cream-filled pastry that epitomizes Catalonia’s indulgent side that goes well with a café con leche.
Plaça de l'Àngel, 12, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Caelum
Caelum is a cosy dessert haven in the Gothic Quarter, offering a selection of traditional sweets made by Spanish nuns. Known for its serene atmosphere, the café serves unique treats like honey cakes and marzipan in a setting that feels delightfully historic. Caelum is an intimate retreat where dessert lovers can savour Barcelona’s sweeter side.
Carrer de la Palla, 8, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
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Lynette loves travelling and dancing to Latin music almost as much as she enjoys period films and pastry desserts. She is constantly in search of the perfect nude lipstick and finds her best ideas through walks in nature.
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As the Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Malaysia, Lynette leads the content teams for print, digital and social media platforms of the brand. She has over 20 years experience in media, having been editorial director and editor-in-chief for lifestyle titles such as Cleo, ELLE, Esquire, Men’s Health, and Women’s Health.
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