Barcelona a city of art, culture and Mediterranean food. Cosmopolitan like many of Europe’s cities but it was surprising how much the locals way of life is a breath of fresh air. There were 2 main reasons why I was so excited to revisit the capital city of the Catalan community ‘Barcelona’ firstly to see and kick start my youngest sons 21st birthday celebration and secondly of course the food. As most of you foodies must know, Spain is a dream destination for us food lovers, but the cuisine is so varied from region to region.I’ve always said trying local food is the best way of experiencing a place, there are a vast range of must eat foods to indulge in….and I must mention the charming Gothic Quarter, or ‘Barri Gòtic’ with it’s narrow medieval streets filled with trendy bars, clubs and Catalan restaurants and our apartment was right in the midst of this.

Walking the streets and finding little finds of the local cuisine is what we wanted and that’s exactly what we found, no pre-planning on where to eat and make reservations. Besides we had the perfect tour guide my son who himself has become a bit of a foodie and took us too some fab places.

Here is a list of few of the places we came across that we enjoyed..

Ocana

Hip and trendy located in the Placa Reial. With an eclectic décor, every inch of this place had a story to tell. Great tapas, cocktails and late night music.

Milk Bar & Bistro

We visited for brunch, the food & drinks were worth the wait in the queue. A small quirky place but gets busy very quickly. Expect big plates with a lot flavour….

W hotel

Pre-dinner drinks at Eclipse with glass windows looking out over the beach line, indulge in cocktails and snacks whilst you take in the view at this swanky bar.

La Fonda

Near to where we were staying but we didn’t get a chance to dine there. I have heard and seen great reviews and am slightly disappointed we did not get the time to pop in for even a small plate….We walked past daily and it looked like a great place to dine in.

If anyone visits please do let me know your thoughts!

Frankie Gallo Cha Cha Cha

Suggested by a local who worked in a bar….we asked for a great LOCAL pizza place as you do! This place was , the food was exactly what we wanted with a great mix of people. It’s not for everyone but my favourite was the Truffle and Egg pizza, a deep, intense bite oozing with flavour.

Set Portes

Founded in 1836 as a cafe and converted into a restaurant in 1929, 7 Portes has a grand setting beneath the cloisters, with an old-world atmosphere through it’s wood panelling, tiles, mirrors and plaques naming inspirational persons such as Orson Welles, who have passed through.

Paella is the speciality, or try the gran plat de marisc (‘big plate of seafood’).

Viana

One of our favourites….a small bustling tapas restaurant. We came across it right outside our apartment….there was never a point where it was empty, booking is recommended however they do have seats at the bar but you need to get there early and queue.

To start…

Must try: Pork Carpaccio and the Fish Ceviche….but all the food blew my mind! A small menu but great flavours and the plating is amazing

& to end…. a complimentary after dinner drink

1881 Per Sagardi Roof top bar

Located within the Museum of History. A trendy outdoor rooftop bar is located outside the restaurant. Great for a visit in the day or at night, the views are spectacular over the harbour with great music to help you get in the mood.

La Boqueria

A place perfect for breakfast or brunch. Sit on the countertop of your choice amongst the hustle and bustle of the indoor market. We sat at El Quim De La Boqueria, have a glass of Sangria and try an indulgent dish of Prawns in garlic alongside the Padron Peppers.

Lora bar

Loved, loved the music playing in this little bar. the night we visited, a mix of current and 80’s…the vibe was laid back and the staff were extremely friendly. There are so many bars within the streets of Barcelona similar to when I visited Venice….This was a place which fitted in well with the type of night we planned for.

Tickets

Something a little different…..THIS place is the place you MUST VISIT. Book way ahead of time and I’ll say no more.

BocaGrande

My son loves it here! A little more high end, worth a visit if you are looking for a place to have a romantic dinner or a special night out.

Zona d’Ombra

A wine tasting venue and shop. Definitely worth a visit if you are in search of a place to taste wines and tapas.

La Burnessa

Change up from the Salsa vibe! A Latin American bar in the heart of Las Ramblas. Latin music, Tapas and cocktails, a perfect place to start or end a night.