Exploring some of the best restaurants in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the best loved cities in Spain. Its thriving cosmopolitan centre is fringed by sandy beaches, and a short drive away you can discover rugged terrain high on the hilltops whose silhouettes frame the skyline behind this colourful city. There is a huge range of cuisine to choose from in Barcelona from all different regions of the world, and whether you are after hearty Italian fare or a refined 5 course meal, Barcelona provides restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of our favourites.

Can Solé

Perfect Paella is the dish of the day here, with fluffy rice, sumptuous seafood and gorgeous spices. There are also fresh fish dishes to choose from as well as a range of gorgeous meats, soups and stews. It’s a fairly upmarket place so be prepared to pay premium prices too.

Tapaç24

For a real treat night out head to Tapaç24 – a fantastic restaurant run by Michelin-starred chef Carles Abellan. Its aim is to mirror a classic Spanish tapas bar, which is does, however more unusual dishes such as Russian salad and ham croquettes, are also on the menu and well worth a try. Tapaç24’ reputation speaks for itself, it doesn’t take bookings so to avoid the crowds avoid the busiest mealtimes if you can.

La Mar Salada, Barceloneta

Located beachside in Port Vell you can find La Mar Salada. It may not look like much on the outside but don’t be fooled. Inside the airy space you will find crisp white linens, attentive waiters and dishes such as Razor clams with Iberian bacon and pine nuts, and confit of codfish with tomato jam, fresh spinach and garlic mouselina which are cooked to absolute perfection. The puddings aren’t bad either! Cinc

Sentits

If you are looking for food with flourish head to Cinc Sentits where you can expect to try some top class Catalan Cuisine. Here you can only choose from the fixed menus, selecting either a 5 course or 7 course menu. The food is interesting and experimental, and you can expect lively table-side entertainment too.

Petit pau

This is perfect for those on a tighter budget where the majority of main courses are priced below the ten euro mark. The menu changes with the seasons but is consistently delicious and has a laid back atmosphere making it the perfect spot to come and enjoy some food and wine with friends.

El Atril

El Atril is another great option for those looking for somewhere with great hearty dishes that won’t break the bank. Fresh Moules et frites are decent here and meat lovers will enjoy the rather unusual kangaroo steak. It’s also BYOB with a small corkage charge so great if you are looking to keep costs down.

Quimet i Quimet

This tiny tapas bar may not fare well with claustrophobics, but if you can bear being squeezed, cajoled, and slightly deafened then you will be rewarded by excellent tapas dishes such as raw salmon with cream cheese, soy sauce and honey (a match made in heaven) great seafood options, and excellent montaditos.