Restaurants and Bars in Barcelona

We check out the restaurants and bars in Barcelona to give you the inside edge on the most interesting places, plus special recommendations from Jaume

Try Amazing Food at the Best Restaurants in Barcelona

Make the Most of Your Vacation by Visiting 5 of the Best Restaurants in Barcelona, Spain

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Breathtaking sights, salty sea air, and decadent dining; Barcelona is an exotic paradise for so many reasons.  With all the city’s many unique attractions, you’ll see, hear, taste, and smell things you never even dreamed existed!  The dining in Barcelona is especially amazing; good food surrounded by picturesque scenery is hard to beat!  This city contains thousands of places to eat, with each and every one serving their own incredible dishes and treats.  The abundance of restaurants here might feel overwhelming to a newcomer, however, so we’ve narrowed down a few of our favorites to help with your vacation itinerary!  Discover some of the best restaurants in Barcelona, Spain, to enjoy a meal that you won’t soon forget.

5 of the Best Restaurants in Barcelona, Spain

  1. Botafumeiro

Located close by to the picturesque Plaça de la Vila de Gracia, this is a great spot for some fresh, authentic seafood!  Each dish served at Botafumeiro is carefully prepared to ensure that the flavors are genuine and satisfying.  From lobster to calamari, these exquisite menu items are bound to fulfill even the most ravenous appetite!  Don’t forget to save room for dessert; this fantastic restaurant is known for their sweet treats!

  1. Restaurant Uma

Both visitors and locals alike rave about this one-of-a-kind hotspot due to its distinctive dishes and quirky atmosphere.  Uma is constantly drawing countless, curious individuals who are dying to try their beautifully crafted and utterly delectable foods. These chefs’ passion for the art of food can be clearly seen through their creative and imaginative dishes with an astonishingly alluring presentation.  

  1. Salamanca

Ever wanted to dine right beside the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean?  You can at Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona!  Not only do they have a picturesque backdrop for enjoying a great meal, but they also serve the best paella in Barcelona, a traditional dish that includes an abundance of seafood atop a delicious pile of rice.  

  1. Alta Taberna Paco Meralgo

Tapas is a dish native to the Catalan people; smaller portions of bite-size foods means you can try a wide variety of different dishes, all within one meal!  Alta Taberna Paco Meralgo makes some of the finest tapas in all of Barcelona, served within a warm, welcoming environment.  Indulge yourself in some heavenly dessert while you’re here as well; their menu includes a long list of sweets, from frozen chocolate truffles to cream-filled pastries.

  1. The Box Barcelona

For a great place to eat that also offers a thriving nightlife, visit The Box Barcelona!  Try Latin-influenced foods and drinks, then dance the night away in this energy-filled destination!

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals!

Complete your dream vacation to Barcelona by staying in the best accommodations possible!  bizFlats Vacation Rentals provides visitors with luxurious places to stay; each of these many apartments, villas, lofts, and penthouses are equipped with comfortable furnishings and amazing amenities.  Don’t miss out on experiencing the best trip of a lifetime; check our availability and book your stay today!

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Eat at the Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona

3 Reasons Why You Need to Eat at the Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona

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Barcelona is a beloved vacation destination for many reasons.  With a rich history, gorgeous views, and one-of-kind traditions, this vibrant city is definitely a must-see on anyone’s bucket list.  While you’re exploring the manythings to do in Barcelona, be sure to enjoy this city’s dining at its finest.  Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona is, without a doubt, one of the best places to eat here; it provides classic Catalan food in an unparalleled atmosphere to give guests a genuine taste of the area.  Discover why you need to eat here and start making plans to drop by!

3 Reasons Why You Need to Eat at the Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona

  1. Incredible Food

Spain can be credited for introducing a wide variety of unique and delectable dishes to the world.  One of the most iconic meals that originated in this country is called paella, which consists of an enormous pan filled with rice and topped with a myriad of savory seafood.  Although this dish has been modified by many other restaurants in Spain (and all over the world), Restaurante Salamanca is widely known to have the best paella in Barcelona; both locals and visitors alike come from all around to enjoy and share this traditional meal together.  In addition to paella, Salamanca Restaurant also serves countless other tasty treats, such as octopus, calamari, tapas, and decadent desserts!  

  1. Best Atmosphere

What could be more splendid than eating an amazing meal while watching the waves of the Mediterranean crash along the beach?  Restaurante Salamanca is not only famous for its authentic food, but also its excellent location.  You can enjoy your food while seated on a sunny patio, admiring fantastic views of the sandy beaches of Barcelona and all of their numerous attractions.  If you don’t care for outdoor seating, you can choose to dine inside their formal indoor parlor, furnished with beautiful decor that reflects the colorful culture of Barcelona.  

  1. Wonderful Service

Customer service is always key when it comes to the food industry!  The staff at the Salamanca Restaurant in Barcelona is always warm and friendly to all of their guests; they attend your every need and request in order for you to have the best dining experience ever.  Many people who come to this spot are visitors and need help translating the menu or understanding what a certain dish is, but the many kind waiters and waitresses at this restaurant are more than happy to answer any and all questions their guests may have.  You’re bound to have an unforgettable meal when you dine at the Restaurante Barcelona, so make sure you add this to your vacation itinerary!

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals!

A getaway to Barcelona is truly an adventure you’ll always cherish for years to come!  Make your trip to Spain even more memorable by staying in the best possible lodging while you’re here.  bizFlats Vacation Rentals provides all of our guests with the finest apartments, lofts, penthouses, and villas in Barcelona.  Each of our luxurious rental homes is equipped with comfortable furnishings and amazing amenities to create a completely relaxing environment.  Located throughout the most gorgeous areas of the city, our rentals are the perfect solution if you’re wondering where to stay in Barcelona.  Don’t wait another minute; check our availability and book your stay today!

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Couples See Barcelona Together

How to See Barcelona Like a Local

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Barcelona is definitely a tourist hotspot- for good reason!  Its numerous historic attractions, beautiful parks, and bustling city shops create the perfect atmosphere for an exciting vacation.  However, Barcelona is bursting with hidden gems that not many visitors usually find.  If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known areas of the city, try these 5 activities to help you see Barcelona like a local!

5 Ways to See Barcelona like a Local

  1. Find Great Deals at the Flea Market

One of the oldest markets in all of Europe, Els Encants is a thriving flea market in Barcelona.  Open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m, this huge collection of vendors and traders offer all kinds of vintage relics, authentic artwork, and much more.  You’re bound to find your new favorite souvenir at this fascinating Barcelona attraction!

  1. Have a Fantastic Dinner

If you want to enjoy authentic Catalan cuisine without the crowds of tourists, stroll through the beautiful area of Gràcia.  This historical village is under the radar to most non-locals and contains several delightful restaurants, perfect for savoring a peaceful meal while appreciating a quieter portion of the city.  There are several fantastic hole-in-the-wall restaurants and cafes in Gràcia, including Kuai Momos, an exotic spot serving dishes from all over the world, Botafumeiro Restaurant, which specializes in the freshest seafood, and Windsor, a classy joint that prepares traditional Catalan cuisine.

  1. Get the Best View

Want to see Barcelona in a new way?  Climb up to the Bunkers del Carmel, the abandoned anti-aircraft fortifications built during the Spanish Civil War, to see the entire city all at once.  These towering structures sit atop the hill of Turo de la Rovira, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.  This little-known destination is high on the list of places not to miss in Barcelona.

  1. Go Green

In order to better immerse yourself in the culture of Barcelona, you should explore Can Masdeu.  A self-sustaining estate located in the Valley of Saint Genis just outside Collserola Park, this center houses a group of local inhabitants who want to shift their focus from the world of money.  Instead, they put their efforts into growing organic produce and medicinal herbs and spending time together as a community surrounded by nature, rather than the noise and crowds of the city.  Drop by this beautiful property to explore the building, grounds, and garden; you can also attend one of their workshops featuring topics such as activism and ecology.

  1. Enjoy the Nightlife

There is a multitude of things to do at night in Barcelona!  If you want to try a bar that isn’t overwhelmed with noise or people, there are several options available.  You can stop by TimeLine in Gràcia for a quiet evening; this bar serves coffee, brunch, and small plates during the day; at night it transforms into a bar scene with professional bartenders (who are all multilingual to help visitors).  Arena in El Born is another low-key joint; this bar is tucked away in an obscure part of town to create a more intimate and comfortable environment for playing pool and spending time with friends.  Or, if you want to dance the night away, check out the many nightclubs in Barcelona!  There are many spots by the beaches that are fun without being too packed.

Stay with Us at bizFlats!

Now that you can’t wait to see Barcelona, check out bizFlats to book the perfect place to stay for your getaway!  Our numerous vacation rentals create a comfortable environment so you can enjoy a good night’s rest in between your many Barcelona adventures.  Check our availability today to start planning a trip you’ll never forget!


    Barcelona winter

    How to Have the Perfect Day in Barcelona in Winter

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    Barcelona is the dream vacation destination for many reasons; one of which is it’s amazing to visit all year long!  If you’re planning a vacation to Barcelona in winter, you might have a few questions regarding what to wear or how to spend your day.  Read these tips to help you schedule your Barcelona winter day itinerary.

    1. Bundle Up- but Not Too Much!

    As you’re getting ready to start your Barcelona winter day, you’re probably wondering what clothes are best suited for the weather.  Barcelona winters are typically blessed with beautiful weather.  Temperatures are mild; generally they tend to be around 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around the 40s at night.  The days are usually sunny with rare glimpses of rain (although there might be a good many overcast days).  So grab your jacket and scarf but leave your heavy winter coat behind!

    1. Have a Good Breakfast

    Barcelona prides itself on its coffee.  With bold flavors and higher amounts of caffeine, a cup of Barcelona coffee is the perfect way to start the day.  

    There are a few variations of how their coffee is served:

    -Café amb llet: Best enjoyed with a light breakfast, this morning delight is equal parts espresso and steamed milk.

    -Un café or café solo: A simple shot of espresso with a thick layer of foam, usually saved for the end of a meal.

    -Carajillo: A café solo with some added brandy!  Not for breakfast though- this alcoholic beverage is generally made to accompany bigger meals.

    Along with your morning cup of joe, you need some wholesome food to give you enough energy for your Barcelona winter day. A traditional Catalan breakfast can be a large, substantial meal.  While some locals might just grab a cup of coffee and a croissant, many indulge in hearty breakfast sandwiches.  The Pa Amb Tomaquet is another traditional part of a Barcelona breakfast; it consists simply of warm bread moistened with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with authentic olive oil and sea salt.

    1. Use Your Afternoon to Explore!

    This region of Spain is positively bursting with things to do: hikes featuring breathtaking scenery, museums honoring the history of the city, and more places to shop than you’ve ever seen before!  Take your afternoon to wander through museums and art galleries or rent a bike to see numerous parts of the city.  Barcelona is covered with various bike paths for you to tour historical monuments, beaches, and parks.  

    1. Dinner & Drinks

    Spain is home to many of the best restaurants in the world.  Treat yourself to an amazing dinner after your busy day of exploring Barcelona.  Many places here offer a very unique cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients and provide views of the surrounding city to accompany your amazing meal.  Don’t let your Barcelona winter day end after dinner, though!  Barcelona has a bustling nightlife, perfect for letting loose and concluding a long day.

    Come Stay at bizFlats!

    No getaway is complete without comfortable accommodations.  bizFlats offers rentals of apartments, lofts, villas, and more so you can fully relax after a long day in your home-away-from-home.  Check our availability and find the perfect place for you!

    Photo by rob st / Flickr

    barcelona gothic quarter

    Get Lost in the History of the Barcelona Gothic Quarter

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    You won’t just get lost in the history of the Barcelona Gothic Quarter but also in the amazing variety of things to do in this corner of the city that is among the most visited places by tourists and residents alike. With its labyrinthine streets, it’s best to pay extra close attention to your surroundings as it’s common to literally get lost in the area. Along with beautiful squares that make for the perfect place to relax for an afternoon with a bottle of wine or a good book, there are numerous great boutiques for shopping, a grand cathedral, and a lively nightlife. During your next visit to Barcelona, be sure to take a walking tour though the Gothic Quarter!

    History of the Barcelona Gothic Quarter

    The Gothic Quarter is the center of the old city of Barcelona. Many of its buildings maintain their medievally designed integrity though there were many additions and improvements throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The Roman Wall remains are evidence that the gothic quarter dates as far back as the Roman settlement in Barcelona. The labyrinthine street layout is further evidence, with many of the streets opening up into squares that would have been markets and meeting places in medieval times.

    Barcelona Gothic Quarter Attractions

    Gothic quarter of Barcelona in wet weather conditions
    Photo Credit: bbsferrari/iStock/Thinkstock
    • The Barcelona Gothic Quarter Cathedral is one of the main attractions in this area and is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, as well as breathtaking sight. Having been constructed from the 13th to the 15th centuries, its neogothic style is complete with rooftop gargoyles and other domestic and mythic animals.
    • Plaça Sant Jaume is located at the heart of the Barcelona Gothic Quarter and is the administrative center of the city as home to both City Hall and the Palace of the Generalitat of Catalonia. The square is home to many big events throughout the year.
    • Plaça Reial sits between the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla and is a popular attraction. It is well known for its rich nightlife as it is home to many famous nightclubs and outdoor venues. It is one of the most popular spots for national celebrations like New Year’s Eve.
    • Portal de l’Àngel is known among locals for being one of the premier locations for shopping in Barcelona, since it is a pedestrian-only street – it attracts many of the best-known local and international fashion brands. The huge footfall on Portal del’Àngel makes it Barcelona’s (and Spain’s) most expensive retail location.
    • The Barcelona Gothic Quarter also has its own collection of ruins, such as the Temple of Augustus, an old Roman temple built during the Imperial period. After being demolished, its remains were not discovered for centuries and have been slowly restored as they have been found.

    A Few Fantastic Gothic Quarter Restaurants

    There are far too many romantic restaurants in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, but a few highly-recommended spots to eat include: Bilbao Berria, Cal Pep, and Pla Restaurant.

    Whether you like shopping, nightclubs or are more interested in a beautiful place to sit outside and take in the atmosphere, you will enjoy the Barcelona Gothic Quarter.  There are numerous short term holiday rentals around this area giving you a historic experience on your stay here. While they are in the medieval corner of Barcelona, these flats are all newly remodeled with all the modern features you’re used to at home. Our Gothic Quarter apartments are conveniently located at the center of the city giving you easy access to whatever you might want to see on your stay. Our vacation rentals are where to stay in Barcelona, and are a perfect alternative to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter hotels.

    5 of the Most Romantic Restaurants in Barcelona

    5 of the Most Romantic Restaurants in Barcelona

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    Barcelona is an innately romantic city with tons of romantic spots. Historic monuments contrast modern design, and the whole city is cornered against the beach by lush green mountains. A city devoted to food and wine, there are date nights to be had in every hole-in-the-wall tapas restaurant you find. Tapas themselves are meant for sharing, served in small two-bite portions, and always paired with some national treasure of a wine or beer. Romantic restaurants in Barcelona aren’t hard to come by, and this city built for romance also offers other fashions of dining – excursions, really – that will give you and your sweetheart an experience to remember whenever you visit.

    Romantic Restaurants in Barcelona

    No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find plenty of romantic spots to eat in Barcelona. Below are a few of our choices for the most trendy restaurants in Barcelona.

    1. For a classic Mediterranean tasting menu, book your reservations at Con Gracia. This small, tasteful restaurant is elegant, intimate, and the perfect for romance.
    2. Joséphine is a charming café and comptoire. Their vintage style features a simple, yet delicious Mediterranean menu accompanied by tasty cocktails and often live jazz music. If you’re looking to keep it simple and a little eclectic this is a great option.
    3. For one of the cities best gastronomic experiences head to Mayura for interesting mix of Mediterranean and Indian cuisines in a relaxing environment. You won’t be disappointed by their fantastic cocktail list either.
    4. One of the new additions to the scene of romantic restaurants in Barcelona, Toto is known for great taste in both spectacular designs and an outstanding Italian-inspired menu.
    5. If you’re looking for an exquisite dining terrace then book your romantic dinner at Roig Robí. This is not only one of the most romantic restaurants in Barcelona, but also one of the most traditional with a menu boasting an unique and delicious interpretation of high Catalan cuisine.

    Even More Romantic Things to Do in Barcelona

    Private Hot Air Balloon Ride

    If you’re looking for more than just a meal and some spectacular views of our gorgeous city, then this hot air balloon ride, which includes a traditional Catalan brunch, is a great way to celebrate a romantic holiday in Barcelona. Surprise your better half with this Barcelona birds eye trip and you’ll give the most exceptional gift – experience to share.

    Cooking Class

    In the spirit of experiential dating, plan a night of cooking fun. This is a great twist on the traditional Valentine’s Day event, grouping activity with fine dining. Sign up for this Small Group Barcelona Cooking Class and learn the secrets of Spanish cuisine and master tapas dishes or paella. At the end of the challenge, led by a personal professional chef, enjoy the fruits of your labor among loved-ones.

    Gourmetbus

    This traveling Michelin-rated dining experience is among the most unique ways to experience the city’s views, culture and cuisine. Hop aboard the glass-roofed Gourmetbus and get a tour of Barcelona, accompanied by a famous Carls Gaig meal.

    The numerous romantic restaurants in Barcelona to choose from will not disappoint you during your romantic occasion, nor will the amazing date-night activities about town. If you’re planning a special trip to celebrate the holiday with your sweetheart check out some of our romantic flats scattered about the city and surrounding countryside. This is a day for making memories, so make it special!

    5 Must-visit Tapas Restaurants in Barcelona

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    tapas restaurants in barcelona
    Bar Tapas / Photo By Grey World via Flickr

    You can’t possibly visit Barcelona without a legendary tapas experience. Traditionally food to snack on at the bar, some restaurants have made a very sophisticated cuisine of tapas. Both the casual snacks of cheese, cured meats and olives, as well as the fancier slow cooked dishes served tapas style are worth your exploring. This fashion of serving small dishes encourages camaraderie, sharing, and delightful conversation. In some settings diners are even encouraged to stand and move around with the convenience of small, delicate nibbles of food. Some of these spots are actually so petite that the intimate environment offers no choice but to have a mobile meal.

    Here are 5 favorite Tapas restaurants in Barcelona

      1. Quimet i Quimet
        This classic tiny tapas bar specializing in conservas (preserved shellfish) and montaditos (tapas over bread). Any seafood dish here is delicious. If seafood isn’t your favorite then you will definitely enjoy their various charcuterie tapas. You’ll want to arrive early for cocktails as this small places fills up fast.

    • La Tieta
      This is as traditional as it gets. It’s nothing fancy, but is good, old fashioned tapas served with choice wine, and flowing draft beer. You’ll get great, homey Mediterranean flavors of chickpeas, prawns and olives, with a delicious drink alongside it.
    • El Vaso de Oro
      One of the most famous bars in the whole city, El Vaso de Oro’s tapas are just as exciting as its extensive draft beer selection. The bar will be packed, no matter how many people are eating, so be sure to get there early. This is the spot for beer-lovers in the whole city, and the little bites will be a great pairing to whatever you’re drinking.
    • El Sortidors del Parlament
      This is a great place for wine-lovers with their stunning selection of vintages from around the world. Perched beside an old wine barrel you’ll enjoy wonderful wines and dried and cured meats. You will surely leaving feeling happy and full!
    • Tapas 24
      This is a great place to explore the modern tapas movement. Focusing on quality, local produce, Chef Carles Abellan draws a crowd for his oxtails stews, fried prawns and other signature snacks. If you’re a foodie, this is the place to go to check out what this beloved Spanish chef and restaurateur is doing to the tradition of tapas.

     

    Tapas restaurants in Barcelona will mix this variety of history and nouveau cuisine experiences into a delightful night of food and drink. You’ll experience some of the traditional salty bar snacks of cured meats, cheeses olives and bread – which are surely designed to keep you thirsty! – as well as more modern takes on tapas dining. It will be an delicious and inviting night out in this beautiful city, as you mingle and eat communally. While staying in one of the luxurious bizFlats accommodations you’re sure to have a great tapas experience nearby as Barcelona is known for its food culture worldwide. You will definitely find something to your taste around this gorgeous city on the sea.

    Spain has Seven of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants

    Alí Araúz

    “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” ceremony, considered the Oscars of the dining industry, has recognized René Redzepi’s restaurant, Noma, as the world’s No.1.

    world's best restaurants

    The Top 10:

    1. Noma, Copenhagen, Denmark
    2. El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain
    3. Osteria Francescana, Modena, Italy
    4. Eleven Madison Park, New York, United States
    5. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, London, Britain
    6. Mugaritz, San Sebastian, Spain
    7. D.O.M., Sao Paulo, Brazil
    8. Arzak, San Sebastian, Spain
    9. Alinea, Chicago, United States
    10. The Ledbury, London, Britain

    (complete list here)

    Spain’s Gastronomic Tourism

    For years, Ferran Adria’s El Bulli, in Girona, northeast Spain,  was considered the best restaurant in the world according to experts and foodies. Since El Bulli closed, a power vacuum opened up in the world in high-end gastronomy. The competition now is very tough but Spain is still in the top rankings.

    Seven Spanish restaurants made the list this 2014, three of them ranked in the top 10. Last year No.1, El Cellar de Can Roca, is the No.2 this year.  Mugaritz was announced as No. 6 and Arzak No. 8, both located at San Sebastian, Spain.

    Barcelona and its surrounding areas have also become an important destination for foodies in recent years and this has just begun.

     Spain’s best restaurants acording to “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” ranking:

    spain's best restaurants to eat on earth

    2. El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain

    6. Mugaritz, San Sebastian, Spain

    8. Arzak, San Sebastian, Spain

    26. Azurmendi, Larrabetzu, Spain

    34. Asador Etxebarri, Atxondo, Spain

    35. Martín Berasategui, San Sebastian, Spain

    41. Quique Dacosta, Dénia, Spain

    1. El Celler de Can Roca, Girona
    2. Mugaritz, Saint Sebastian

    As their website claims, their 50 Best Restaurant list is “recognized around the world as a credible indicator of the best places to eat on earth”.

    So now you know! Seven of the world’s gourmet wonders are located within Spain. One of them, just 1.5 hours from Barcelona’s city center. Another good reason to visit and stay with us.

    Bon profit!