Heading to Barcelona for a few days? Then here are some great spots to try out.
Mercado de La Boqueria; Barcelona's main food market can be a great place to roam around. My suggestion, head here for breakfast to avoid the midday and afternoon crowds. You'll find plenty of room to perch at the market restaurants (there are a handful of them). Make sure to order a tortilla, local speciality 'octopus on potatoes' and of course a glass of cava to wash it down.
Betlem; a neighbourhood tapas join. This understated spot is great for some tapas classics and contemporary versions. Don't forget to order some vermouth to sip on while you are there.
Cerveseria Catalana; a popular tapas restaurant that can can end up with trailing queues. Make sure you're a group of no more than 2-3 to ensure to be seated quickly ish and enjoy the general buzz and fanfare of this large spot. Some of the dishes we enjoyed include a juicy Catalonian sausage, yolky eggs combined with a heady mix of potatoes and jamon and fried aubergines (below).
El Nacional: A first for Barcelona, this popular spot is a huge converted train station with plenty of dining and drinking options inside. A great place to start the night, before you head off on a tapas crawl or as a meeting spot with friends.
Tapas 24: The famous Tapas 24 has two locations in Barcelona. I headed here for a mid afternoon rest stop (aka a well deserved drink). Their sangria and vermouth are both good choices and of course a quick snack never hurt anyone. We tried the well known 'bikini', a sliver of a grilled cheese and truffle sandwich. The perfect afternoon refresher!
El Palace: If a romantic setting, rooftop views and the Sagrada Familia in the distance is what you want? Then head to this stunning rooftop for sunset drinks.
El Pla; Outstanding, elevated and creative tapas dishes that are a must-try when visiting Barcelona. Nestled in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, head here for dinner one night.
Enjoyed my Barcelona foodie's guide? Read my post on where to eat in London here.
