5 Restaurants/Cafes you shouldn’t miss in Barcelona
So, you’ve spent the day immersing yourselves in the culture of Barcelona; Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral to Jean Nouvel’s Torr Agbar. You can talk at length about Gothic or Modernista, you’re feeling more… sophisticated.
It’s now the evening, it’s time for food. However, the new refined you is no longer satisfied with finding the nearest English style Pub for Fish + Chips – you need more…
Like many before you, you’re overwhelmed with the choice that Barcelona has to offer – and that’s understandable, Barcelona has one of the highest numbers of restaurants per inhabitant of any city in Europe.
However, you have to start somewhere – so start with these five:
Sense Pressa
Run by José Luis (the chef) and his wife Isabel Cañedo, Sense Pressa has a relaxed feel to it. No surprise that the name translated means “Not in a Hurry”. A large selection of wines adorns the wall; the sommelier will recommend which to choose to compliment one of the many meat or fish dishes on offer. (the Cecina de Leon is recommended). Book early though, this restaurant is very popular.
Location: Enric Granados, 96
Website: www.sensepressarestaurant.com
Phone: 34 93218 1544
Caravelle
This photo of Caravelle is courtesy of TripAdvisor – Caravelle
It’s not hard to see why Tripadvisor reviewers have ranked Caravelle 14th out of over 3800 restaurants in Barcelona. Popular with both the locals and tourists Caravelle offers a low key bar, café/grill ambience. Don’t let the low key décor fool you though, the food here is fantastic. If you’re a gourmet burger fan, this is the place to visit.
Location: Pintor Fortuny 31,
Website: www.facebook.com/CaravelleBCN
Phone: 34 9331 79892
Matsuri
Japanese may not be the first food-type that enters your head when visiting Barcelona, but you’ll be surprised on how many Japanese Restaurants there are. Matsuri is one of the best. Established in 2003, you’ll be greeted by a Zen-like atmosphere and friendly staff. Offering a selection of Asian Beers and delicious teas to accompany an Orient inspired menu; the chef Edo Komori really delivers.
Location: Plaza Regomir 1, 08002
Website: www.matsuri-restaurante.com
Phone: 93 268 1535
Ziryab Fusion Wine and Tapas Bar
This photo of Ziryab Fusion Wine and Tapas Bar is courtesy of TripAdvisor – Ziryab
Any guide to eating out in Barcelona wouldn’t be complete without the mention of a Tapas Bar. Situated in the middle of Old Barcelona in the Born neighbourhood this isn’t just your ordinary Tapas Bar. It offers a blend of the traditional Cataluña tapas and the herbs and spices of Asia. It’s not just the food that reveals an Arabic influence. The Bedouin décor lends itself to truly middle-Eastern experience and an informal and relaxed evening. Don’t expect a full-meal type menu, but do expect a great atmosphere and the night to be a long one.
Location: Calle de Grunyi no 4
Website: ziryab.es
Phone: 3493667378
Pla
This photo of Pla is courtesy of TripAdvisor – El Pla restaurant
Another favourite amongst tourists and locals alike, Pla opened its doors in 1998. It offers a menu in keeping with Catalan cuisine – the Sea Bass is a customer favourite. Dim lighting and live background music makes this a must for couples looking for a romantic evening. This is a popular restaurant, so book early – although on occasion you may get lucky enough to be able to turn up on the night. If you’re into people watching, ask to be seated in the Mezzanine level.
Location: Bellafila, 5
Website: www.elpla.cat
Phone : 34 9341 26552
This is a guest post from the team at Parking Luton Airport – conveniently situated 32 miles North West of Central London. Barcelona is just a short plane ride from Luton Airport. The team at Parking Luton Airport write many destination guides, for other useful guides, please visit their website.
