Are you a foodie? Even if you’re not, you will be delighted by the food scene in Barcelona and fell in love with the restaurants and experiences. From ham and wine to tapas and gourmet cuisine, this Spanish city has something to offer for every eater.
Spain is a stunning European country packed with history and vibrant culture, offering many great opportunities and a diverse food scene. Certainly, there are a ton of cities to visit, but Barcelona has it all, amazing beaches, and a whole quarter of historical architecture. Also, due to the big amount of exposure to different cultures, you sure will find endless food options, from local cuisine to dishes from all over the world.
As you can see, this Catalonia city has a lot to offer. Its well-known landmarks, gorgeous architecture, and mixed culture make Barcelona the perfect place for a holiday. Make sure to visit iconic places like La Rambla, Park Güell, and the Sagrada Família, and of course, do a popular Barcelona food & wine tour that will make the experience even better.
Barcelona is also one of the best places to enjoy some world-renowned restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Do a Gastronomic Tour
The first thing you need to do is a food tour, that way you can really taste the different sides of the food scene in Barcelona. You’ll be able to explore the different dishes and wines of the city and learn more about the culture and history.
The tour is a great option to meet people, also, a professional Sommelier will be your guide, which will take the experience to another level.
You can expect to sample traditional and authentic Spanish wines and food, you’ll get a rich taste of Barcelona gastronomy.
Try Different Areas and Restaurants
When it comes to food and drinks, Barcelona is not short of places to visit, making it one of the best places for a foodie experience. There are many areas and districts or quarters that stand out among others for their restaurants, bars, and pups.
For Casual Food (Plaça Comercial and Plaça Reial)
If you’re looking for a place to have casual dining, head to Plaça Comercial near a park called Parc de la Ciutadella and the Picasso Museum, or head to Plaça Reial, close to La Rambla.
Both are stunning and busy squares that are popular among tourists and locals.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Les Quinze Nits – Plaça Reial
- Restaurant Tobogán – Plaça Reial
- Ocaña – Plaça Reial
- Guzzo Club – Plaça Comercial
- Morelia – Plaça Comercial
- Bormuth – Plaça Comercial
Try Traditional Food (Plaça de Santa Maria and Passeig del Born)
Are you looking to taste the traditional food from Catalonia, and also an escape to the busiest areas of the city? Then head to Plaça de Santa Maria, this place is packed with traditional restaurants and bars, and it’s close to the stunning Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar.
Or you can head to Passeig del Born, and enjoy the vibrant architecture on a beautiful street filled with bars, cafes, and sweet shops.
Both are popular among tourists and locals, but it’s usually not as packed as other areas.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Santa Maria del Mar – Plaça de Santa Maria
- La Vinya del Senyor – Plaça de Santa Maria
- Calabrasa – Passeig del Born
- Orvay – Passeig del Born
Taste Local and Family-Run Restaurants (Gracia Neighborhood)
If you want to completely escape the busy side of Barcelona, try the Gracia neighbourhood, you can find a good amount of family-owned restaurants serving traditional and local food.
It’s away from most tourist attractions and is mainly visited by local people, but can be a good experience. Also, there you can find Parc Güell.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- La Perillosa
- Gasterea
- Intrèpid de Gràcia
Have Food Variety (Plaza Catalunya)
Plaza Catalunya is a well-known square for tourists and locals alike, the biggest draw is its location. The Plaza is situated super close to two of the most famous streets in Barcelona.
For a taste of different dishes, you can go to La Rambla and enjoy some tapas and platillos that can’t be missed, a good place to try Spanish cuisine combined with many others cuisine, from Italian and Mediterranean food to Kosher, grilled and Asian.
You can try heading to Passeig de Gràcia, it also has many high-rated restaurants and bars.
Both areas are the place to go for restaurants, cafés and bars, offering a wide range of different cuisines.
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Txapela – Plaza Catalunya
- La Plaça Gourmet Cafeteria – Plaza Catalunya
- El Nacional Barcelona – Passeig de Gràcia
- Citrus Restaurant – Passeig de Gràcia
Go for a Drinks and Partying
You can find a lot of bars in many areas of Barcelona, but when it comes to partying there’s no better place than Port Olimpic, it’s well known for having many beach clubs packed with tourists and locals.
But if you’re looking for a barroom to sit and chat, head to El Raval in the Gothic Quarter. There you will find many different bars, many historical places and also, it’s a good place to have some tapas.
Other good places for bars and dancing are Carrer de Marià Cubí and Carrer de Santaló, both areas are close to each other and have plenty of options for eating and drinking.