Best Food Tour & Cooking Class in Barcelona
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The 23 Best Places to Eat in Barcelona
1. Tickets Bar – $$$$
Tiquets Bar is one of the hottest attractions in Barcelona. If you`re a serious food enthusiast, you`ve likely heard of the now-closed el Bulli, known at the time as the world’s best restaurant, helmed by Catalan superstar chef, Ferran Adrià. Tickets Bar is owned by Ferran and his brother Albert and it`s essentially a circus-themed tapas bar with the most creative appetizers you`re ever expected to taste – a globally-inspired world tour in a few dishes. It`s a casual, informal, buzzing place, and the only tapas bar in town that you have to book online two months in advance. Food-wise you have two choices: order tapas individually, or decide how much you want to spend and have the waiter choose for you. Dishes are fun and playful: expect appetizers like liquid olives (a nod to Ferran Adrià’s molecular gastronomy), wafer-thin `pizza` with buffalo mozzarella, a `Nordic landscape` of cured beef with vinegar snow and sweet pickles, Peruvian and Japanese oysters, and suckling pig mini-sandwiches. Enjoyable, busy, memorable.
⚫ Avinguda del Paral·lel, 164
• Nearest metro: Poble Sec
• +34 932 92 42 52
2. Viana Barcelona – $$-$$$
This hidden culinary hotspot located down a tiny street in Barri Gòtic serves internationally inspired small plates, carefully selected wines, and original cocktails in a vintage setting. This establishment has established itself as one of Barcelona`s most popular tapas bars even though it`s only been open a few years amid many average places near La Rambla. The concise `eclectic Mediterranean` menu divides selections into snacks, main courses, and sweet endings. Enjoy a few shareable dishes (fresh burrata with guacamole, octopus tempura from Galicia, shrimp and fish ceviche) or dine early on slow cooked beef cheeks or cod in blood orange sauce. Be sure to sample the `threesome of chocolate` for dessert too. Of the crafted cocktails, the signature blackberry mojito is outstanding. Friendly service and flawless presentations amid a busy but welcoming atmosphere. Book ahead for a table; bar seating for walk-ins.
• Carrer del Vidre, 7
• Nearest metro: Liceu
• +34 934 63 82 95
3. Restaurante Lasarte – $$$$
Barcelona’s top 3-starred restaurant according to Michelin. Run by Martín Berasategui, one of Spain’s most honored chefs, Lasarte earned its third Michelin star in 2017. There are two tasting menus to select from; the 7-course (185 Euros) and the more extravagant 11-course (210 Euros) with additional wine pairings, as well as an à la carte menu. The decor is quite understated – all light wood and flowing lines – leaving the focus entirely on the food. And what food! The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect things like sea bass with mantis shrimp broth and clam mayonnaise, Wagyu carpaccio with frozen mozzarella powder, charcoal-grilled pigeon with olive and galangal and almond and salt praline with rum ice cream. Everything is beautifully displayed and the flavors are amazing. The meal is a once-in-your-lifetime treat. Smart-casual dress. Advance reservations essential.
· Carrer de Mallorca, 259
• Nearest metro: Passeig de Gràcia
• +34 934 45 32 42
4. 7 Portes – $$$$
An old-school seafood restaurant. On the edge of Barceloneta, this elegant restaurant is all white tablecloth service and bowtied servers. It’s also one of the very few rice restaurants in Barcelona where you can get portions of paella, fideuà (rice-like vermicelli dish), and other grain dishes for one individual; in most places it has to be for a minimum of two. Apart from grain dishes, 7 Portes specializes in dishes like chicken roasted with mushrooms and Moscatel wine, overflowing platters of steamed seafood, and grilled catch of the day. Picasso, poet Federico García Lorca, and Orson Welles have all once dined here; look for the little plaques with their names. Lots of dishes designed for sharing and excellent value.
• Passeig d’Isabel II boulevard, 14
• Nearest metro: Barceloneta
• +34 933 19 30 33
5. Pinotxo Bar – $$-$$$
A tapas counter located within the bustling La Boquería marketplace. Those who walked along La Rambla, Barcelona’s most popular pedestrian path, would have seen crowds flocking into the city`s best known produce market. Along the edges of the market there are several tapas counters, with Bar Pinotxo being among the finest. It has operated successfully for over 70 years while attracting some of Barcelona’s top chefs together with locals and tourists acquainted with its reputation. No menu is available; instead look at the platters along the counter and inquire with owner Juanito Bayen about that day`s special selections. These may include truita de carfoxes (artichoke omelette), cigrons (garbanzo beans with cilantro), botifarra (grilled Catalan sausage), bacallà amb Samfaina (codfish with ratatouille) and cap i pota (veal head and leg). Get here at the beginning of service, as some choices sell out quickly. Be prepared for a wait. A busy but fun place to grab a quick meal. Cash only.
⚫ Carrer la Rambla, 89
• Nearest metro: Liceu
• +34 933 17 17 31
6. Big Al’s American Kitchen – $$-$$$
The Barcelona outpost of the award-winning burger Joint Big Al`s first opened in the coastal town of Sitges and has now brought their phenomenally successful American-style burgers to Barcelona. There are 20 different burger options to select from, ranging from the Fat Elvis (bacon, caramelized banana, peanut butter) and spicy jalapeño (habanero sauce, caramelized jalapeños, cheese) to the ultimate burger challenge – The Widowmaker (6 patties, pulled pork, quadruple-decker bun) – finish it in less than 30 minutes to get your photo on the Wall of Fame. In addition to burgers, you can also enjoy pulled pork sandwiches, hot wings, brisket sliders, nachos, and quesadillas, alongside a nice selection of craft beers. Inexpensive and popular among local young people and families.
‧ Corsega Street, 178
• Nearest metro: Hospital Clínic
• +34 934 08 82 23
7. Dos Palillos – $$$$
Michelin-starred Spanish-Asian fusion. Run by Albert Raurich (former protege of Catalan superstar chef Ferran Adrià) and his Japanese wife and sommelier, Tamae Imachi, this is bar dining at its finest. There are two seatings per night with diners offered the choice between two tasting menus: the 17-course or the 20-course. The courses range between bite-sized and tapas-sized and are a fun, creative exploration of Spanish, Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese flavors. Bar seating surrounds the open kitchen, so you can watch the chefs at work. Expect dishes like sea urchin on crispy rice, cuttlefish tartare with fish roe, toro (fatty tuna) in ponzu sauce, smoked soya ice cream with edamame, and tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, cooked for 16 hours. The presentation is beautiful and Dos Palillos is great for an intimate night out or for dinner with friends. Reservations essential.
• Carrer d’Elisabets, 9
• Nearest metro: Liceu or Universitat
• +34 933 04 05 13
8. Moments – $$$$
Michelin-starred, contemporary re-imaginations of conventional Catalan cuisine. Situated inside the Mandarin Oriental hotel, Moments is run by the eminent Catalan cook Carme Ruscalleda, already responsible for two of the world’s best eateries, and her son Raül Balam. The mother-son duo uses seasonal, local ingredients to playfully reenvision traditional Catalan meals with modern twists and international influences. Expect dishes like venison with black garlic and artichokes, rice with prawn tails, wild sea bass with eggplant, and Duroc pork with daikon and pistachio. The 14-course tasting menu (171 Euros) is a unique treat, with each serving inspired by a classic film (Titanic, Wizard of Oz, Breakfast at Tiffany’s). The extensive wine list includes many uncommon vintages. The sleek dining room with its gold-leafed ceiling adds to the refined ambiance. To watch the food-as-art being made, request to sit at the chef`s table, overlooking the open kitchen. Tranquil, romantic, perfect for a special event. Reservations essential.
• Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40
• +34 931 51 87 81
9. Alkimia – $$$$
Seasonal, resourceful, Michelin-starred dining. Operated by highly respected local chef, Jordi Vilà, Alkimia’s been aspect of the Barcelona dining scene for 15 years. The idea is basic: all meals are fashioned from locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, with surprising textures and clean, unpretentious flavors. Visitors are ushered into an impressive dining room, with a frescoed roof and open kitchen. Choose between a la carte and two tasting menus (11/13 courses for 98/155 Euros), then sit back as seamless assistance conveys dish after lovely dish. These could include shrimp tartare, cuttlefish stuffed with botifarra negra (Catalan sausage), child squid with the first peas of the season, lamb and squash ravioli, leek and porcini mushroom tart, and a red fruit gazpacho with galangal (ginger-like root). There’s an fascinating wine list too and the handmade bread is superb. Relaxed ambiance, romantic, friendly. Reservations.
‧ Ronda Sant Antoni, 41
• Nearest metro: Universitat or Sant Antoni
• +34 932 07 61 15
10. Irati Taverna Basca – $$-$$$
Energetic Basque tapas bar. Although this small tapas bar is centrally located in the Barri Gòtic neighborhood, just one block from the popular La Rambla strip, it has avoided becoming dominated by tourists and serves excellent tapas. Similar to most traditional Basque establishments, there is an extensive selection of around three dozen different pintxos (small open-faced sandwiches) laid out on the counter. Help yourself and the staff will tally up how much you owe depending on the number of toothpicks left on your plate. However, the pintxos are not the primary attraction here. For the best experience, secure one of the tables in the back and order a few hot dishes from the menu, such as seasonal artichokes simmered with cod and clams, or baby calamari sautéed with green peas, as well as grilled beef in a tempranillo wine sauce. Wash it all down with a crisp Txacolí (young Basque white wine). No reservations are required. Buzzing friendly atmosphere. The bar becomes quite crowded in the evenings, so arrive early – Calle Cardenal Casanas, 17
• Nearest metro: Liceu
• +34 933 02 30 84
11. Come – $$$$
High-end, traditional Mexican cuisine with Catalan influences. Named after an herb widely used in Mexican cooking, this contemporary restaurant is a collaborative effort between Mexican chef Paco Méndez and renowned Catalan chef Albert Adrià. Imagine this: you’re sitting in a bright, cheerful dining room, completely devoid of clichéd sombreros, cacti or Mexican flags, while dish after dish appears, presented in clever and unusual ways. Sea urchin toast on a leaf. Cockles with pineapple aguachile in a shell. A charred artichoke served on round rocks. Cochinita pibil (Yucatan-style, slow-cooked pork) and avocado with black garlic mole – all beautifully plated on slate and stone. Flavors are authentic, service is friendly and prompt, and the signature margaritas are a wonderful accompaniment. Choose between a la carte or the seasonal tasting menu. Bustling, friendly, informal. Reservations.
‧ Avenida Mistral, 54-56
• Nearest metro: Poble Sec or Plaça Espanya
• +34 938 27 59 77
12. Shunka – $$-$$$
Elegant yet relaxed Japanese eatery. Though its flashier, Michelin-starred sister restaurant, Koy Shunka, is just around the corner, many locals prefer this location when seeking quality Japanese cuisine. Shunka is located a block away from Barcelona’s cathedral and inside it’s all minimalist decor, light colored wood fixtures, busy waiters, and seating at the bar for solo diners. The concise but satisfying menu is divided into rice, seafood, meat, udon, sushi, sashimi and maki, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and clean flavors. Standout dishes include white fish carpaccio with straw mushrooms, tuna, salmon and avocado combo maki, and anything with toro (fatty tuna belly). The 10-course surprise tasting menu is certainly worth the splurge at 65 Euros. Casual, laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Excellent value for money.
• Carrer dels Sagristans, 5
• Nearest metro: Jaume I
• +34 934 12 49 91
13. La Bella Napoli – $$-$$$
This Italian restaurant in Barcelona offers excellent pizza. With its red-and-white checkered tablecloths and Neapolitan servers, it presents one of the top locations in Barcelona for authentic Italian cuisine, especially quality pizza. The thin and crispy pizzas from their wood-burning furnace are among the best available outside Italy. On the comprehensive pizza menu, favorites include the Sofia Loren (with arugula, provolone cheese, and fresh tomatoes) and the Quattro Stagioni (with mozzarella, jam, artichokes, salami, and olives). There is a nice range of risottos, fresh pastas, and house-made gnocchi plus specialties like papardelle with lobster. The wine list incorporates options from all over Italy and the assistance is swift. Popular with households. Reservations are advisable for dinner and on weekends.
– Carrer de Margarit, 14
• Nearest metro: Paral.lel
• +34 934 54 70 56
14. Semproniana – $$-$$$
Creative Franco-Catalan fusion meals. Colorful and fantastical, with eclectic furnishings, Semproniana is a preferred lunch spot known by local food aficionados of all eras. Most dishes come in three portions: modest, reasonable and overly abundant, and they are chef Ada Parellada`s playful interpretations of French and Catalan staples. I propose selecting a number of modest dishes to share. Noteworthy choices incorporate shrimp tartare, black rice topped with delicate cheese from Menorca, cod with rosemary and honey, pasta tubes stuffed with Catalan black pudding, and grilled vegetable and couscous stack. The three-course weekday lunch is an absolute steal at 16 Euros. Energetic, fun, casual.
• Carrer del Rossello, 148
• Nearest metro: Hospital Clínic
• +34 934 53 18 20
15. Bubó – $$-$$$
A highly regarded patisserie and bakery is located in Born, the confusing network of tiny lanes just north of Barceloneta. Ten years ago, Bubó was a humble bakery. Now it has branches in Japan and Abu Dhabi, and this original outlet remains one of the finest places in town for coffee, gourmet pastries (croissants, chocolate bread), and exquisite desserts. Choose from elaborate cheesecakes and intricate chocolate creations to macarons featuring uniquely local flavors, such as crema Catalana. This branch of Bubó has diversified into savory foods as well – there is an adjoining café and restaurant serving decent tapas (grilled shrimp, pork skewers, fried potatoes) and more substantial main dishes like oxtail stew and burgers. It offers something for everyone and is pleasant for people-watching.
• Caputxes, 10
• Nearest metro: Barceloneta
• +34 932 68 72 24
16. Xurrería Sagrada Familia – $
A renowned venue for the quintessential Spanish snack of chocolate con churros. Situated in an ideal setting directly across from one of Barcelona`s most iconic landmarks, this family-run establishment offering churros and coffee has welcomed residents and visitors since the 1950s. Dark chocolate paired with churros fulfills for Spaniards a similar role as tea and cake for the British, and this small place executes it exceedingly well. The drinking chocolate is properly viscous and indulgent, and the churros (deep-fried dough strands) come in five distinct versions: original, filled with Nutella, dulce de leche, or vanilla cream, and coated in chocolate. Pleasant outdoor seating area. Well-suited for a quick bite.
• Location of the Famous Church
• Nearest metro: Sagrada Família
• +34 934 58 25 60
17. Enigma – $$$$
Over 40 courses were served to only a couple dozen diners each night inside a structure resembling a futuristic igloo, Enigma is Barcelona’s most confidential fine dining experience. The brainchild of Ferran Adrià (formerly of elBulli, the best restaurant worldwide), and his brother Albert, Enigma necessitates diners to traverse six different areas in the maze-like space, tasting delicate bites and mini-cocktails as they proceed. Advance reservations quintessential.
· Carrer de Sepúlveda, 38
• Nearest metro: Rocafort, Poble Sec
• +34 616 69 63 22
18. Can Culleretes – $$
Step back in time in Barcelona’s oldest restaurant (1786) and sample some centuries-old recipes such as rice casserole, wild boar stew, and pork sausage with beans. Old-world decor appeals to families. Reserve ahead for dinner.
· Carrer d’en Quintana, 5
• Nearest metro: Liceu
• +34 933 17 30 22
19. Oaxaca – $$-$$$
Some of the most authentic Mexican cuisine in Barcelona, with traditional dishes such as cochinita pibil (Yucatan-style slow-roasted pork), chicken with mole negro, and tacos al pastor. Sultry decor, plenty of Mexican art, plus a mezcal bar next door.
• Pla de Palau, 19
• Nearest metro: Barceloneta
• +34 933 19 00 64
20. Suculent – $$$
Just three tasting menus are offered here, with renowned chef Carles Abellan impressing diners with his innovative takes on seasonal Catalan dishes like oxtail and mushroom croquettes and calçots (seasonal spring onions) with hazelnuts. Advance booking is recommended.
⚫ Rambla del Raval, 45
• Nearest metro: Liceu
• +34 934 43 65 79
21. Koy Shunka – $$-$$$
A block north of La Catedral, this casual Japanese veteran is all minimalist decor and open kitchen. The short but sweet menu is divided into rice, seafood, meat, udon, sushi, sashimi, and maki; standout dishes include white fish carpaccio with straw mushrooms, and anything with toro (fatty tuna belly). The 10-course surprise tasting menu is worth extravagating.
• Carrer d’en Copons, 7
• Nearest metro: Jaume I
• +34 934 12 49 91
22. Disfrutar Barcelona – $$$$
Headed by three top chefs formerly from elBulli, this two-star Michelin dining extraordinary experience consists of 28 daring, astounding small portions that celebrate the Mediterranean culinary heritage, served in a light, bright, unadorned setting. Anticipate elements like melecular gastronomied olives, made employing elBulli’s well-known spherification process, one-bite lobster baguettes, wagyu beef cannelloni, and much more. Reservations essential.
• Carrer de Villaroel, 163
• Nearest metro: Hospital Clínic
• +34 933 48 68 96
23. Restaurante Angle – $$$-$$$$
A considerably more modest sister restaurant of Chef Jordi Cruz’s 2-Michelin-starred establishment in Hotel ABaC, Angle serves two tasting menus of beautifully arranged, playful dishes like scarlet shrimp bouillabaisse, veal rice with oysters, and sardine with black garlic charcoal bread. Stylish yet informal; romantic ambience. Advance booking recommended.
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• Nearest metro: Sant Antoni, Passeig de Gràcia
• +34 932 16 77 77
