52 Best Restaurants in Barcelona: Where to Eat in BCN

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Here’s my guide on the best restaurants in Barcelona.

Whether you’re looking for value tapas bars, local Catalan cuisine, or tasting menus at Michelin star stunners I’ll have it listed here – I might even throw in the odd street food joint.

Let’s take a deeper look at the Barcelona restaurants dominating the local food scene.

Full disclosure: I’ve arranged deals for my readers with the first three Barcelona restaurants you’ll see. If you appreciate the work we do here a booking would really support our efforts. We respond to thousands of questions every year for free – try us if you can’t find what you’re looking for in our Barcelona restaurant guide!

The Best Restaurants in Barcelona

Bodega Joan

€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Carrer Rosselló 164  |  Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5)

You’ll be texting your friends photos of their mixed paella (a type of surf and turf), but even if you’re afraid of rice you can eat like royalty here with their carne picanha: a char-grilled sirloin cap that’s plate perfection.

Since their made to order paella takes about 25 minutes you’ll have plenty of time to take it easy Spanish-style, with some Serrano ham, gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), or even Galician octopus.

This is a lively place with authentic Spanish atmosphere and free flowing wine.

Our blog readers get a  25% discount on a paella tasting menu – click the banner below for info.

a pan of seafood paella at bodega joan restaurant in barcelona spain a pan of seafood paella at bodega joan restaurant in barcelona spain
Get 25% off a paella tasting menu at the legendary Bodega Joan!

Louro

€€€  |  Area: La Rambla  |  Carrer del Caputxins 37  |  Metro: Liceu (L3)

Louro is probably the only restaurant I’d recommend on the famous La Rambla – but that’s not to say this is a big fish in a small pond. It’s one of my favourite modern Spanish restaurants in the whole city.

Here the fresh seafood-rich Galician fare gets a creative/avant-guard twist.

Some top menu features here are the smoked sardines, crunchy octopus, scallops gratin, Galician beef filet, and the highly underrated calamari sandwich.

As this place is always packed I’ve set up a quick reservation system directly with the restaurant (no money down, with reservation priority via my blog) by clicking the button below:

LOURO
Book with WhatsApp!

Season

€€-€€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Carrer d’Aribau 125  |  Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5)

This delicious gourmet tapas restaurant famous for ‘new classics‘ of Catalan cuisine gets to the top of the list – since most of my readers want a balance of Spanish tradition and contemporary style.

The fresh, natural, and seasonal menu tailored to wine lovers bills itself as Mediterranean food with an international touch… or as they call it: Barcelona food.

You’ll be raving about their seafood paella and the Catalan cured meat platter – there are also great vegan options and the craft cocktails are out of this world.

You can get €5.00 off a gourmet tapas tasting menu by clicking the button below:

SEASON
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Best Gourmet Restaurants in Barcelona

Teatro (formerly Tickets)

€€€€  |  Area: Poble Sec  |  Av. del Parallel, 164  |  Metro: Poble Sec (L3)  |  Website

Unfortunately, the playful small plate tapas giants at Tickets – once named one of the 50 best restaurants in the world – had to shutter their doors and reel in their fine dining tasting menus (and Michelin stars) over the pandemic.

Re-branded as Teatro in 2022, they’re moving forward with most of the same furniture, 5 of the classic Tickets dishes, and a new menu heavy on stews and modern snacks like jamon ‘airbaguettes’ and even parmesan ice cream.

They’ve also got their own cocktail bar in the back to make a night of it.

Lasarte

€€€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Carrer de Mallorca, 164  |  Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5)  |  Website

The prestigious Basque chef Martín Berasategui offers his signature, artful cuisine – and three Michelin stars – in the restaurant of the Hotel Monument in Barcelona, ​​right on Paseo de Gracia.

The menu features scallops with creamy raw celery, low-temperature free-range egg with roasted jowls, and roast sole with lentil stew and potatoes.

One of the best restaurants in Barcelona for dinner after visiting the Gaudi mansion La Pedrera.

🥘 Looking for food + history + wine + fun? Take one of Barcelona’s best food tours.

Disfrutar

€€€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Carrer de Villarroel, 163  |  Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5)  |  Website

Opened in December 2014 in the heart of Eixample Izquierdo, Disfrutar brings the experience and creativity of three former chefs from legendary El Bulli to Barcelona: arguably the most experimental restaurant of all time.

Expect avant garde dishes across different tasting menus with the option of wine pairing. This is a truly unique gastronomic experience, and it’s a can’t miss Barcelona restaurant for lovers of creative cuisine.

Some curious menu highlights include: liquid salad, smoked cookies, and transparent ravioli with pesto.

Alkimia

€€€€  |  Area: Sant Antoni  |  Ronda de Sant Antoni, 41  |  Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5)  |  Website

The secret mission of this top Barcelona restaurant is to infuse traditional Catalan cuisine with new life. It’s stylish, enchanting, and even a bit romantic – and yes, it has a Michelin star for those asking.

Among the most compelling real food dishes are the crayfish and prawn tartare, mackerel a la flama with peas, and the pork crackling croissant with Catalan cream.

Keep in mind this is a tasting menu only restaurant and reservations are very necessary.

🍷 Want to sample the best local wines? Book one of Barcelona’s best wine tours right now.

Moments

€€€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Passeig de Gracia, 38  |  Metro: Passeig de Gracia (L2-3-4)  |  Website

Rocking two Michelin stars, Moments is the flagship restaurant at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

Carme Ruscalleda is the director here, the only chef in the world with seven Michelin stars, and you’ll feel it right in the taste buds from the first bite of their very innovative, very Catalan cuisine.

Visiting Casa Batllo in the evening? This is one of the best restaurants in Barcelona for a post-Gaudi bite. Banker’s Bar, in the same hotel, is also one of the best bars in Barcelona for cocktails.

Àbac

€€€€  |  Area: Sant Gervasi  |  Av. del Tibidabo, 1  |  Metro: Vallcarca (L3)  |  Website

“Everything Starts with an Idea” is the slogan of this beautiful garden restaurant that takes traditional flavours and gives them a modern Parisian, Chinese, and avant garde twist.

This Barcelona restaurant counts three Michelin stars so their tasting menus (especially with wine pairings) can push €350.00 so this is a great special occasion restaurant.

Their caviar and whipped hazelnut butter crisps and marinated lamb ribs with ‘Arabian nuances’ are highlights.

a tourist makes paella at a cooking workshop in barcelona a client participates in a paella cooking class in barcelona
Reserve your apron at Barcelona’s five star paella cooking class with no money down.

Spanish Restaurants & Tapas Bars

Bitacora

€€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  1 Carrer Balboa  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

One of my favourite tapas bars in Barcelona.

This kitschy little Barcelona restaurant where you watch the cooks is a stone’s throw away from the beach. Here they mix classic tapas with more modern and ethnic flavours.

The menu features three of my Barcelona restaurant favourites: ceviche, gambas a la plancha (grilled prawns), and ginger marinated chicken.

Try and get a seat on the terrace outside.

Can Boneta

€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Carrer de Balmes, 139  |  Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5)  |  Website

Chef Joan Boneta’s small corner in Barcelona’s Eixample district is a place for shareable half portions of homemade Catalan food – made with fresh produce, big flavours, and a lot of love.

One of the best restaurants in Barcelona for Spanish classics with a good price-quality ratio.

Highlights include octopus with creamed potatoes, Catalan cannelloni, and tuna tartare.

La Paradeta

€€  |  Area: El Gotico  |  Various Locations  |  Website

Don’t miss this for anything if you’re a fan of fresh seafood dishes.

This self-service seafood joint lets you choose fresh fish from a market counter, sits you down with a bottle of their natural wines from Catalonia, and cooks it for you right there and then.

Expect to wait a while even if you get there at opening but know that it’s worth it – make sure to grab a bottle of lightly sparkling Blanc Pescador wine and try the grilled squid and chiriprones (fried baby cuttlefish).

Can Maño

€€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  12 Carrer del Baluart  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)

Call it a hidden gem or call it a dive, but here it’s about fresh fish dishes and old world charm.  

This fantastic Barcelona seafood restaurant finds its beauty in the friendly atmosphere, simple to tacky decor, and cheap prices – the local crowd lines up from 8:00 pm so get there early.

From the dining room you can watch the cooks in the kitchen banging out Catalan dishes, so it feels a bit like being home. All together you won’t spend more than €15/20 per person for an abundance of fish.

Restaurante Arume

€€€  |  Area: El Raval  |  Carrer d’En Botella 13  |  Metro: Universitat (L1/L2)  |  Website

If cooking is about creativity then this Barcelona restaurant has it right.

Here you’ll find a modern execution of traditional dishes from Galicia with eye-catching presentation. Grab my two menu highlights: crunchy octopus and a blackberry mojito

The delicious desserts, simplistic decor, and suffused lighting create an intimate atmosphere that makes it one of the great places for couples in Barcelona.

Jai-Ca

€€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  Calle Ginebra 13  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

One of the best restaurants in Barcelona for authentic atmosphere. If you’re in a group and wanna sample a ton of fresh seafood tapas for a fiver each then head to this super-popular bar-restaurant.

Here you’ll also jockey for position with locals but the quick service and big portions will make it worth the wait.

Can Margarit

€€€  |  Area: Poble Sec |  21 Carrer de la Concordia  |  Metro: Poble Sec (L3)  |  Website

One of the top restaurants in Barcelona since way back when – Can Margarit was founded over 40 years ago as a tavern with traditional Catalan cuisine.

Of all the Barcelona restaurants I’ve ever been to, it’s the only one that gives you a free glass of wine on arrival 😉 They’re poured from the many barrels lining the walls.

For €20.00 you’ll get a huge pan con tomate, a Murcian salad with potatoes and onion, cod, spicy sea snails, sausages, garlic potatoes and the house specialty jumillana – a type of rabbit stew.

Can Punyetes

€€€  |  Area: Gracia  |  Francisco Giner 8-10  |  Metro: Diagonal (L3/L5)  |  Website

A rustic tavern-style Barcelona restaurant with great service.  You go here for grilled meat – and more grilled meat. The small à la carte menu of Catalan cuisine classics is a hit with locals so the botifarra sausage and beans is a massive favourite but you can’t go wrong with the lamb either.

Their classic tapas plates of cheese and jamon are just as good.

Also, just as a Barcelona restaurant guide aside: I’d be cheating you in telling you where to eat in Barcelona if I didn’t mention there are tons of Barcelona tapas bars that give away free tapas if you buy a drink.

Clubhaus

€€-€€€  |  Area: El Born  |  Av. del Marquès de l’Argentera, 13  |  Website

This isn’t technically a tapas restaurant even if they have some of the best patatas bravas in Barcelona. The Mexican-Asian food menu is everything good about fusion, as proven by their tacos.

This multi-space concept that’s famous for food, art, and play also has a stunning cocktail bar, games room, karaoke room, club (the Jungle Room), and a great little terrace out front.

Head here if you’re looking to parlay dinner or post beach snacks into a fabulous, full on night out without lifting a finger.

El Celler del Vermut

€€  |  Area: Sagrada Familia  |  239 Lepanto  |  Metro: Sagrada Familia ( L2/L5)  |  Website

If you’re hungry before or after visiting Sagrada Familia this is the only place to go!

This hole in the wall hasn’t yet been discovered by the tourist crowd – so let the bartenders hand cut your Spanish deli meats and cheeses right in front of you while you sip a delicious homemade vermouth in peace.

La Bombeta

€€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  3 Carrer Maquinista  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

Whenever I’m in Barceloneta and asking myself, what are the best restaurants near me? I always end up catching that “No English and No Credit Cards” sign.

The slogan of this classic tapas dining room shouldn’t be anything to fear though! It’s one of the best places to eat in Barcelona and really, they’re big fat liars – they’ve got English menus 😉

The house special here are the bombas, a massive potato ball stuffed with ground meat and covered in a spicy sauce.

Bormuth

€€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  31 Carrer del Rec  |  Metro: Jaume I (L4)  |  Website

Delicious meat and fish tapas and a classic pan con tomate to match. The homemade vermouth (vermut in Catalan) with a slice of lemon and two olives is something you can’t leave out – the mussels marinara and eggplant and honey are two tapa standouts.

Can Paixano

€  |  Area: Barceloneta  |  7 Reina Cristina  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

This place is so famous that I had to dedicate an entire article to Can Paixano. Known to locals as La Champaneria, here you’ll find bottles of house rosé wine for the price of a pack of gum and two metro rides.

The botifarra sausage and manchego cheese tapas pair perfectly and with 10 euros you’ll have enough fresh food and drink to make you sick. WARNING: It’s closed on Sunday and is only open until 22:00.

a spread of modern tapas at season restaurant in barcelona spain a spread of modern tapas at season restaurant in barcelona spain
Get €8.00 off a gourmet tasting menu at Barcelona’s best tapas bar.

Paella Restaurants in Barcelona

I’ve already got an entire article on the best paella in Barcelona but here are a few highlights:

Les Quinze Nits

€€€  |  Area: El Gotico  |  6 Plaza Reial  |  Metro: Liceu (L3)  |  Website

You’ll love it for its location in one of the most picturesque, visited squares in the Gothic Quarter but you’ll come back because €20 gets you a giant plate of homemade paella, some sangria, a dessert and coffee.

Les Quinze Nits is one of the best restaurants in Barcelona for people watching but don’t worry about the lines: even during peak hours the longest you’ll ever wait is 30 minutes.

Xiringuito Escribà

€€€  |  Area: Poble Nou  |  Avenida del Litoral 42  |  Metro: Llacuna (L4)  |  Website

Here’s where to eat in Barcelona if you want a seaside view. Xiringuito Escribà is packed with big portions and knowledgeable locals – the seafood is a natural star in one of the first xiringuitos (beach bars) opened for the 1992 Olympic Summer Games.

Make reservations to be safe.

La Fonda

€€  |  Area: El Gotico  |  Carrer dels Escudellers 10  |  Metro: Drassanes (L3)  |  Website

People looking for value will appreciate the €10.85 weekday lunch special that includes wine or sangria, starter, paella, and dessert. You won’t find any real homemade paella for much cheaper in the city and its super-central location makes it a perfect walk-up spot.

Burger Restaurants in Barcelona

B Burger

€€  |  Area: Eixample |  Carrer d’Arago 36  |  Metro: Rocafort (L1)  |  Website

I’m told the ‘b’ stands for ‘best’ – so what a coincidence I find myself writing about the best burgers in Barcelona! This tiny burger bar is super popular because, well, the burgers are f@&#* delicious. Make sure you reserve a table (weekends especially) in advance to avoid being disappointed.

What sets this place apart is the uncharacteristically friendly service, local craft beers, tasty salad options, and perhaps one of the best patatas bravas (a fried potato with spicy tomato sauce dish) in Barcelona.

La Vespa Burger Bar

€€  |  Area: Gracia | Torrent De l’Olla 99  |  Metro: Fontana (L3)  |  Website

When I lived in Gracia this was a great Sunday lunch spot (ie. hangover remedy). The restaurant is as chic as the neighborhood itself and you’ll notice its impeccable Italian style.

Cute and affordable, La Vespa might offer the best burgers in Barcelona by sheer combination of original toppings. The homemade guacamole featuring afrodiasaca burger is a highlight, and you can’t go wrong adding a bit of botifarra Catalan sausage.

Go for the Kobe beef patty.

Bacoa

€  |  Area: Eixample |  Ronda de la Universitat 31  |  Metro: Catalunya (L1)  |  Website

This Australian-owned hamburgueseria has brought quality to the fast food sector and Barcelonians have noticed. There are now five locations throughout the city and another set to open in Madrid this year.

I have multiple friends who swear this is the best burger in Barcelona. Hell, they make everything themselves… even the ‘theft-free’ chairs you’ll be sitting on!

Known for its homemade mayo, 100% organic Catalan beef, and a creative use of traditional Spanish hams and cheeses… you won’t wanna miss this. The burgers here are extremely customizable so throw on some Serrano ham and a slab of manchego and tell everybody you ate Spanish 😉

tourists lining up outside casa batllo in barcelona spain tourists lining up outside casa batllo in barcelona spain
Buy your tickets in advance from home or risk long lines + bigger prices.

Barcelona Pizza Restaurants

We couldn’t mention good restaurants in Barcelona without going Italian – for a more in-depth list check out our post of the best pizza restaurants in Barcelona.

Sport Bar

€€  |  Area: El Gotico  |  51 Carrer Ample  |  Metro: Drassanes (L3)  |  Website

It wouldn’t be a Barcelona restaurant guide written by me if I didn’t include my favourite restaurant. Don’t be fooled by the nondescript name though – these pizzas are extraordinary.

The chewy sourdough crust and wood fired oven magic is straight out of Naples. So are the staff. Get there early (8 PM) if any of the big Italian football teams are playing.

TIP: the pan di stelle dessert (a type of tiramisu made with cookies instead of ladyfingers) is out of this world.

Spaccanapoli

€€-€€€  |  Area: El Born  |  Rec Comtal 6  |  Metro: Arc de Triomf  |  Website

Many have asked me for Italian restaurants and I can’t help go to Naples for this authentic beauty and its divine polpette (meatballs), paccheri allo scoglio (a seafood stew/pasta combo) and one of the best pizzas in the city.

What I go for though is the slow cooked ragu. The flavour of this slowly simmered sauce is so good you’ll plan your next holiday to Rome and forget all about Spanish tapas!

Looking for something really authentic? The pasta con patate is a regional specialty and may seem like science fiction.

Two carbs? Try it and be amazed.

NAP (Napoli Authentic Pizza)

€€  |  Area: El Born |  30 Avinguda Francesc Cambó  |  Metro: Jaume I (L4) |  Website

A true pizzeria, no pasta. This is the best value authentic Neopolitan pizza in Barcelona. A simple traditional à la carte menu with creative seasonal specials. Did I mention the 1 euro digestivos? Pour me another limoncello.

There’s a second location in Barceloneta (metro Barceloneta) at 69 Carrer del Baluard. I hear it’s less busy.

Madre Lievito

€€  | Area: Poble Nou | 1 Carrer de la Llacuna  |  Metro: Llacuna (L4)  |  Website

Fans of chewy sourdough crust would do well to fill up here. The natural yeast (‘madre lievito’) makes the crust here good enough to eat on its own!

In fact, you won’t find a stray piece of crust in sight. It’s so good you may even double down and get the nutella pizza for dessert – it’s worth every chocolately penny.

You’ll hardly find a better deal in our list of best restaurants in Barcelona than their €6.90 pizza margherita (+drink) lunch special.

La Bella Napoli

€€€  |  Area: Poble Sec  |  14 Carrer de Margarit  |  Metro: Paral·lel (L2/L3)  |  Website

If Sport Bar took away the screens and put out some white table cloths and classy decor you’d get this. They’re all Neapolitans and bring that southern hospitality.

Aside from spot on traditional wood-fired pizza the eggplant parmesan, this is also one of the best restaurants in Barcelona for desserts: the Nutella calzone are really something.

Antichi Sapori de Angelis

€€€  |  Area: Les Corts  | 48 Carretera de Collblanc  |  Metro: Collblanc (L5)  |  Website

I eat here once a month like clockwork at this hidden gem.

If you’re going a tour of Camp Nou or seeing Barcelona FC play you’ll be happy to know you can avoid the tourist trap hell of the area by eating in this restaurant/pizzeria that’s right around the corner.

De Angelis specializes in Calabrian cuisine so try anything with their homemade spicy sausage.

Ethnic Restaurants in Barcelona

What Barcelona restaurant guide is complete without an ode to the cultures giving it its cosmopolitan feel?

Come

€€  |  Area: Eixample  | Carrer d’Aribau 137  |  Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5)  |  Website

One of the best new restaurants in Barcelona, this spot for Mexican haute cuisine is run by Michelin star chef Paco Méndez – the ex head chef of el Barri (Albert Adrià) who has teamed up with his wife Erinna Mariciano for this unique dining experience.

Call it a chef’s menu on the fly. Each meal served at Come will be based on the diner’s individual tastes, as well as the ingredients available that week. In fact, no two weeks are the same.

There is also a fantastic wine bar with organic and and ‘biodynamic’ local wines.

Each tasting menu starts at €95.00.

Dos Palillos

€€  |  Area: Raval  | Carrer d’Elisabets 9  |  Metro: Liceu (L3)  |  Website

Ferran Adrià boldly called this the most important Asian restaurant outside of Asia, and with Michelin star pedigree dating back to El Bulli Restaurant I’m not going to argue.

This is one of the few Barcelona restaurants that can count 4 different spaces: a casual sake bar, a terrace bar for non-restaurant patrons, a kitchen bar where the food is served by the chefs themselves, and a dining room.

Expect small tapas of local ingredients with hints of Japanese, Chinese, and southeast Asian cuisine.

Viet Kitchen

€€  |  Area: Eixample  | Carrer d’Aribau 137  |  Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5)  |  Website

My friend spent 2 months in Vietnam and used the word ‘flashback’ multiple times to describe this Vietnamese street food gem in Eixample.

Here they take great pride in using only fresh ingredients to create traditional dishes.

From the super-crunchy pork and vegetable spring rolls and their carefully elaborated series of sauces to the traditional Vietnamese drip-filter cold coffee ending, we were treated to a trip to Vietnam for a value-town €10.00 lunch set menu.

Advice? Get their class caramelized spare ribs and fab pho.

Eat Carribean Barcelona

€€  |  Area: El Raval  |  Carrer Montserrat 4  |  Metro: Drassanes (L3)  |  Website

Wondering where to eat in Barcelona for some sweet spice? Go for tasty home cooked Jamaican food. This joint used to run out of a flat and limited spots could only be booked over the phone.

Today chef Lester has a real restaurant but hasn’t forgot his humble beginnings – making him one of the best hosts in Barcelona. The jerk chicken and lamb curry burst with flavour and you’ll wash it down with one of the best mojitos in the city.

Sushi Ya 2

€€  |  Area: El Gotico  |  3 Carrer del Cometa  |  Metro: Jaume I (L4)  |  Website

In a city of cheap imitation sushi this place is a breath of fresh air. 3 course combination meals of top quality sushi can be had for €9.20 – €12.80 making it great value.

Throw in some local artisan beer, tasty rice bowls, and a great selection of traditional Japanese tapas like yakitori, takoyaki, and gyoza and you’re all set.

Mosquito

€€€  |  Area: El Born  |  46 Carders  |  Metro: Jaume I (L4)  |  Website

This fantastic ‘Spanasian’ spot has a menu full of tapas inspired by Vietnam, China, and Korea. Grab a pencil and check off half a dozen items on their easy-order paper and make sure to get some of their dim sum – there are very few dumpling spots in Barcelona and this is clearly the best.

The value is great and yes, they serve tons of delicious craft beer!

Una Mica de Japó

€€  |  Area: Eixample  | 104 Carrer d’Arago  |  Metro: Urgell (L1)  |  Website

A small Japanese family run this cozy gem that’s open from 1-10 Tuesday to Saturday. Super-simplistic hand-written menus hang from the ceiling offering classics like chicken teriyaki, tempura, gyoza, and pork katsudon.

There’s no sushi but you won’t care. Your wallet won’t either – 10 euros will get you a great meal.

Abissinia

€€  |  Area: Gracia  |  55 Carrer del Torrent de les Flors  |  Metro: Joanic (L4)  |  Website

Such a great variety of flavour and smells at this uber-authentic Ethiopian restaurant. It’s a bit of a different vibe since you have to eat your hands – the brilliantly spiced meats and vegetables are served on a type of crepe and that’s your utensil!

Beginners would do well to get the taster menu and try a bit of everything with drink and dessert for €20 a head.

Puerto Plata

€€  |  Area: El Born  |  1 Carrer Tragi  |  Metro: Jaume I (L4)  |  Website

It sounds dumb but it’s one of the best places to eat in Barcelona if you want to eat. This Carribean restaurant is perfect for a fresh food binge of epic proportions.

The set menu starts at €22 and includes 2 hours of non-stop eating (they bring you about a dozen different dishes and if you ask for seconds or thirds, they’re free!). It’s also all-you-can-drink beer, wine, and sangria.

Throw in dessert, coffee, a digestif, and a cocktail and we’ve got it made.

tourists listening to tour guide alvaro garza in the gothic quarter barcelona spain tourists listening to tour guide alvaro garza in the gothic quarter barcelona spain
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Best Breakfast & Brunch Restaurants in Barcelona

Milk Bar & Bistro

€€€  |  Area: Gothic Quarter  |  21 Calle Gignas  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

The great thing about Milk is that even though it’s also a very accomplished cocktail bar and dining room, the brunch served here is among the best in the city.

The eggs benedict, chorizo hash, and pancakes with maple syrup and bacon are favourites.

Brunch is served 9:00 am to 4:30 pm but for those looking for something else the lunch menu and the famous noodle burger may be a good option.

La Federal

€€  |  Area: El Raval  |  39 Calle Parlament  |  Metro: Poble Sec (L3)  |  Website

A simplistic menu of delicious toasts, sweet and savoury croissants, egg dishes, burgers, cereal, and fresh smoothies.

While many of the best restaurants in Barcelona are local, this is actually an Aussie-owned joint and it shows in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Many consider La Federal to make some of the best coffee in Barcelona in addition to the excellent food.

Avenida Palace Hotel

€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  Gran Via 605  |  Metro: Passeig de Gracia  |  Website

If you’re looking for the Barcelona hotel breakfast buffet experience then look no further.

This luxury hotel actually hosted the Beatles back in the 60’s for their only ever Spanish tour. If it’s good enough for them how about us? You’ll get a selection of top quality sweet and savory options.

The mound of jamon iberico was impressive. My visiting guest also couldn’t believe the all-you-can-drink sparkling white and fresh squeezed orange juice.

Add sausages, scrambled eggs, and freshly made croissants and this is a great spoil yourself option.

It costs just €15.00.

Baluard

€  |  Area: Barceloneta  | 38-40 Baluard  |  Metro: Barceloneta (L4)  |  Website

A bakery crawling with locals which just might make the best bread and croissant in Barcelona. Wait for your order watching the bakers work their magic and even feel the heat off the oven!

There are no seats but who cares? You can take your pain au chocolat and juice to go and be on the beach in 5 minutes. No Michelin starred restaurant pretentiousness here – just grab and go.

Brunch & Cake

€€  |  Area: Eixample  |  19 Enric Granados  |  Metro: Universitat (L1/L2)  |  Website

Have the breakfast of champions served in flower pots or shovels! With the deliciousness of their Nutella French toast alone you’ll let a serving faux pas slide though, am I right?

Here the style is a bit more North American with a sprinkle of French but the portions are great for the price and it’s impossible to leave unsatisfied.

Looking for the Best Restaurants in Barcelona?

There are so many good restaurants in Barcelona that it’s impossible to fit them all in the guide – I’m more than happy to go off the board and help you find what you’re looking for if you drop me a line in the comments below.

Also, what were the best places to eat in Barcelona for you? Always curious to hear.

Content Manager

Ashley Pilfold

14 years of Barcelona experience and not slowing down anytime soon! I've seen the city through the eyes of a misguided, Sangria-filled tourist and a responsible local fluent in Spanish and everything Barcelona. I co-founded Barcelona Hacks to help visitors discover the city with insider info - just try me! :)

121 comments
  • June 28, 2019 at 3:45 pm
    Eugene
    Hi My family and I are on a budged holiday for 3 nights in July, looking for a non-touristy place to enjoy local food. We are staying in the Gothic area.
    • June 29, 2019 at 9:46 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Eugene, It's really tough to recommend a non-touristy place especially in high season in summer... nothing comes to mind that is undiscovered by locals. I would however recommend any of the restaurants I've suggested in my Gothic Quarter article: https://www.barcelonahacks.com/gothic-quarter-barcelona/ All of these are frequented by locals but by no means are tourist free :) Ash
  • June 18, 2019 at 6:51 pm
    Cody
    The website and suggestions are very helpful. I am visiting Barcelona in early July with big group and need to book a dinner spot for 14 people. It will be a late'ish dinner (9pm or so) and like everyone else, I am looking for something with a great atmosphere and great food. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you. Cody
    • June 19, 2019 at 10:53 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Cody, Thanks so much for the kind words :) I would recommend El Louro since it's amazing high quality modern tapas with great service. It's literally one of a kind on La Rambla because pretty much the rest of the restaurants there are tourist traps. I've got a very convenient way to book via my blog as well that goes directly to the owner of the restaurant who can slot you in. You may also want to check out Ciudad Condal, Xiringuito Escriba, or El Nacional. Also... remember that in Spain 9 pm is 'earlyish' ;) Ash
  • June 10, 2019 at 8:19 pm
    Carter
    Hey Ash, Me and my GF are headed over at the end of June. Do the majority of the restaurants you've listed have outdoor seating? We would love to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Are there any in particular that have great views, people watching, and great food as well? We are staying at the Olivia Balmes Hotel in L'Eixample. Thanks!
    • June 11, 2019 at 1:27 pm
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Carter, Unfortunately the majority of these restaurants do not have outdoor seating :( When I think of places with a view I think about a place like Restaurante Martinez on Montjuic or the restaurant on the roof terrace at Barcelona Edition - I went there recently and the Asian-South American tapas fusion was delicious. Not to mention a great view. You may also want to try some of the restaurants on the top of the shopping mall Las Arenas. In all... Barcelona is more of a drinking rooftop culture as opposed to restaurants. The restaurants are often gimmicky, commercial, chains etc and overpriced. I would honestly just hit up one of the rooftop bars for a few drinks before moving on somewhere else for dinner - like Louro, Ciudad Condal, or Season. Ash
      • June 17, 2019 at 8:58 pm
        Aileen
        Hi where is a good italian restaurant with reasonable price near placa catalunya?
        • June 18, 2019 at 12:34 pm
          ashley-pilfold
          Team Member
          Ash
          Hi Aileen, Near this area there are unfortunately just a ton of fake tourist trap Italian places :( Honestly I would just walk down into the Gothic Quarter and go to Sports Bar on Calle Ample... or if you want just pizza the most famous Naples pizza shop has opened a location in Barcelona. It's maybe a 10 minute walk from the square and it's called L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. Ash
      • June 11, 2019 at 9:38 pm
        Carter
        Thank you for the quick reply! One day we are planning on walking around the Gothic Quarter and the Raval neighborhood. Are there any specific sites to see and do you have any restaurant recommendations for that area?
        • June 12, 2019 at 1:43 pm
          ashley-pilfold
          Team Member
          Ash
          Hi Carter, Oh there are many sites to see! I honestly couldn't have worded it any better than in my posts on the Gothic Quarter and Raval but if you have anything more specific in mind please let me know, it's hard for me to know... some people like museums, other people hate them. I wouldn't want to recommend something that would fall on deaf ears haha. As for restaurants these neighbourhoods can get gimmicky, commercial, overpriced etc. The only place I'd trust on the famous La Rambla is Louro and it's one of my favourites. There's also an amazing Italian place called Sports Bar (bad name, I know).... some other tapas places to try like Sensi. In Raval it's more a place for ethnic food. If you want a real cheap curry lunch I always duck into Bishmillah...or if you want something healthy and modern there's Flax & Kale. Hope this gets you in the right direction :) Ash
          • June 18, 2019 at 2:21 am
            Carter
            Thanks, Ash! This has been so helpful. I have one last question. My gf is in love with Sangria, but she is allergic to strawberries. In your experience, do the majority of restaurants use strawberries as one of the major fruits in sangria? If so, would you suggest getting tinto de verano?
            • June 18, 2019 at 12:54 pm
              ashley-pilfold
              Team Member
              Ash
              Hi Carter, No problem at all :) The traditional recipe doesn't call for the use of strawberry and is mostly orange, lemon, apple, and maybe peaches or apricots. That said, some people try and get a creative twist going on so maybe it's best to ask in advance to make sure! Tinto de verano would be a nice substitute if this were the case and you were into wine spritzers and the like... though for me it's essentially a watered down glass of wine which doesn't make any sense ;) Ash
  • June 9, 2019 at 3:32 pm
    John
    Hi Ash - thanks for all the info! I'm travelling to Barcelona this month for a stag trip with 20 guys. We are staying on La Rambla. Are any of the places mentioned above particularly good for groups (and bookable in advance)? Any other tips for the weekend re daytime activities and clubs hugely appreciated!
    • June 10, 2019 at 10:16 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi John, My gut instinct is to unfortunately say that a lot of restaurants aren't welcome of stag dos since they can get a bit rowdy and we all know how that can end up ;) That said, a few come to mind... I went to a birthday party with about 20 people to the restaurant Puerto Plata (above) and it was a real hoot, wine and food flowing like there was no tomorrow. Again, it's by no means gourmet but if you're looking to stuff yourself and get a bit tipsy it's great. There is also of course Bodega Joan or Louro (booking info is above)... they offer easy pre-booking on the internet and they're both quite spacious and some of my favourite restaurants in the city. Louro has amazing cocktails and it's a bit higher end... Bodega Joan is more about paella, meat, and wine. I would start with these three :) For daytime activities I'd definitely go to Barceloneta beach, try and check out Sagrada Familia, or maybe even just picnic with some beers up at The Bunkers. For clubs I'd check out a place like Razzmatazz because with so many rooms it'll have something for everybody and you can easily blend in with a group of 20. If you want something by the beach I'd go for Pacha. Hope this gets you off on the right foot! Ash
      • June 15, 2019 at 12:38 am
        John
        Really helpful - thanks so much. What kind of time does everyone go for dinner, drinks, clubbing? I sense it's a lot later than London! I assume you don't need to book club tickets but can turn up on the day? Hoping to ask some locals what club has 'the best night on' as it's a bit tricky to choose in advance. Any views on how good the bar crawls are? Not after anything cringey but if they're good we'll get ourselves onto one! Thanks a lot for your help
        • June 15, 2019 at 7:58 pm
          ashley-pilfold
          Team Member
          Ash
          Hi John, I’ve lived in London myself and can tell you it’s totally different... Spaniards eat at around 930/10 or maybe later on weekends and in summer. Clubs will be empty until around 1 am... so don’t get there too early! Honestly I’ve been on a few of the bar crawls and they are quite cringe. That said, if that’s something you’d enjoy doing at home then you may wanna do it! I don’t have one in particular to recommend since it has been so long, but if Runner Bean has one I’d choose that since they offer great tours during the day. It’s perfectly fine to just show up and buy when you’re there unless it’s a massive DJ. Cheers, Ash
          • June 16, 2019 at 2:49 pm
            J
            Thanks again! really great.
  • May 23, 2019 at 2:20 am
    Irina
    Hello, What restaurant with a view and good food would you recommend? A friend of mine have recommended El Cangrejo Loco, but seems like lots of reviewers didn't like the food at all and the only thing they liked was the view...We are travelling to Barcelona in the end of June-beginning of July and there are 8 of us(4 adults, 4 kids). We would be fine with €€ or €€€ price range restaurants. Thanks
    • May 23, 2019 at 9:02 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Irina, I haven't been to Cangrejo Loco except to have a drink in the evening... to me this is a super touristy spot where a lot of the restaurants skimp on quality because they have high turnover and not a lot of repeat customers. If I were going to go for a restaurant in this area it would be Xiringiuto Escriba as the paella is amazing. Other favourites of mine include El Nacional, El Somorrostro, and Ciudad Condal. I would also highly recommend El Louro since it's amazing high quality modern tapas with great service. It's literally one of a kind on La Rambla because pretty much the rest of the restaurants there are tourist traps. I was so impressed when the owner came by to ask how my meal was (and showed a type of friendly service extended to foreigners rarely seen in Spain) that we got to chatting and I even asked him to help me set up a no money down reservation system for my blog readers... here is a link if you're interested: https://visitarebarcellona.typeform.com/to/rgus9G I should let you know that they give me a small commission per diner but that this money helps me pay for rising server costs and the time (which is now pushing 3-4 hours a day responding to requests! amazing) I invest. Again though, no pressure... any of the restaurants listed here will be great :) Ash
      • May 23, 2019 at 3:54 pm
        Irina
        Oh, I forgot to ask, what time do locals usually eat dinner?:-)
        • May 23, 2019 at 4:34 pm
          ashley-pilfold
          Team Member
          Ash
          Usually around 9:30 pm... even later on weekends! It sounds strange, no? The great benefit for us not used to this schedule is that most of the restaurants have plenty of seating around 8 pm :)
          • May 23, 2019 at 6:30 pm
            Irina
            Thanks!:-)
      • May 23, 2019 at 3:50 pm
        Irina
        Thanks a lot Ash! We will definitely try the places you've recommended!
        • May 23, 2019 at 3:51 pm
          ashley-pilfold
          Team Member
          Ash
          no problem, enjoy :)
  • May 4, 2019 at 8:38 pm
    Sue
    Hi, we are staying on Ronda Sant Pere, close to Urquinaona. Do you have any recommendations for a fun place for tapas/dinner on our first night there? We will arrive late afternoon after a red-eye and will be tired, so I don't think we will be up for venturing too far, but would like to find something fun to make us feel like we ARRIVED. Thanks. Love your website.
    • May 5, 2019 at 4:48 am
      sue
      oops sorry, you answered this elsewhere for me!
      • May 5, 2019 at 7:46 am
        ashley-pilfold
        Team Member
        Ash
        no problem Sue! Thanks for pointing this out... I'm so overwhelmed with messages these days I may have answered it again in different words ;)
  • April 16, 2019 at 9:07 pm
    Maria
    Hello! I love your website, it is very informative and well written. My husband and I and our 2 children (3 years & 5 years) are visiting Barcelona for 1 day (after our Disney cruise) Saturday May 25, 2019. We have a scheduled tour of La Sagrada Familia at 10:45am. We plan on eating lunch before we go to Park Guell. Is there a restaurant that would be good for young children nearby La Sagrada Familia? Maybe Cellar del Vermut?? Also we are staying at Le Meredien La Rambla 111, Carrer del Pintor Fortuny, 4, 6, 08001. Can you recommend nearby restaurants for dinner? We tend to eat early (5-6pm) with the children. This will be our first time in Barcelona. Thank you!
    • April 17, 2019 at 11:15 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Maria, Thanks for the kind words :) If your kids like seafood you can go to La Paradeta where you can pick fresh fish from the counter in a market-like fashion. I have seen kids really enjoying this process and also the service is usually very fast which is a big plus if you are short on time. Celler del Vermut is quite small and probably better for a quick snack or aperitivo. One of my favorite pizza places, called Sports Bar (bad name, amazing Neapolitan style pizza) is also in the area. And obviously being a very touristy area you can find all classic American fast food chains like Mcdonald's, Burger King, Five Guys and KFC. It wouldn't be my choice but sometimes with kids you might have to compromise ;). As for restaurants near La Rambla you’re unfortunately in tourist trap hell… but luckily an amazing restaurant has opened up on La Rambla called El Louro. I went there myself for a sampling and it was so good and so central (usually what my readers want) that I asked them to set up a no money down reservation form for my readers. I have more info about it in this Facebook post. Enjoy :)
      • April 19, 2019 at 2:25 am
        Maria
        Thank you for the quick response! Sports Bar looks like a good option. Can you recommend a restaurant that serves tapas? El Louro also looks very nice, however, they open at 7pm on Saturdays and the children may want to eat earlier. Is there another option near Las Ramblas? We may go on a tour kid & family Gothic Quarter tour so if you have a restaurant recommendation in that area that may be better than Las Ramblas. We are meeting friends and there will be 4 adults and 4 children (two 3 year olds & two 5 year olds). We would like to try and avoid American fast food chains, we don't eat it at home and have heard so many great things about the food scene in Barcelona. This is the tour company https://runnerbeantours.com/tours/kids-and-family-private-tour-barcelona/ I truly appreciate you taking the time to respond to my questions!
  • April 15, 2019 at 7:32 am
    Melanie
    I’m in Barcelona now and came across your site when looking for breakfast. After 4 days I’m wanting a variation on my daily croissant and cafe con leche. I’ve decided to devote most of today eating from your suggestions - it’s Monday so galleries are closed. Thanks for your great tips.
    • April 15, 2019 at 4:24 pm
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Great to hear Melanie! Please let me know how you get on :)
  • April 15, 2019 at 12:45 am
    Kaya
    Will be visiting during Easter, I understand there are lots of places don’t open, so can you recommend any good ones that will be? Staying in Exiample area with 2 Children aged 5 and 7. And do we need to book in advance? Thanks
    • April 15, 2019 at 11:38 am
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi Kaya, It's hard for me to keep track of all these restaurants without really extending myself but if there's one in particular you like I would simply contact them directly via their Facebook pages because most restaurants are quite responsive. The two that I know are open for sure on Easter are Bodega Joan and El Louro... Bodega is more apt for people with kids while El Louro is a bit more fancy. I would book in advance in either case. Both of these restaurants have booking options via my blog if you read above - it is highly recommended during this busy time. Ash
  • April 8, 2019 at 2:05 am
    John & Steph
    We're staying at Cotton House. Any recommendations in that immediate area for an affordable dinner?
    • April 8, 2019 at 2:49 pm
      ashley-pilfold
      Team Member
      Ash
      Hi John, There are two classic Spanish joints that I recommend near there and those would be Cerveceria Catalana or Bodega Joan... the price points are reasonable and it really gives you a lively tapas atmosphere that is a tourist attraction in itself. Ash
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