Barcelona
13 Traditional Restaurants in Barcelona
If you're looking for the best local restaurants in Barcelona, you're in the right place.
This article, created for both locals and visitors, serves as a guide to discovering the authentic tastes and Catalan specialties at the best local restaurants in Barcelona. From the modern twists on age-old classics at Dos Pebrots to the hearty, soulful cooking at Suculent, and the iconic tapas of El Xampanyet, each establishment embodies the essence of Catalan cuisine. All picks in this article are based on recommendations from top chefs and food writers like Fran Agudo and Izaskun Escribano. So, if you're looking to try great Catalan food or find a cozy spot to enjoy some tapas and wine, join us as we reveal the best traditional restaurants in Barcelona.
Dos Pebrots
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C. del Doctor Dou, 19
C. del Doctor Dou, 19, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Dos Pebrots delves into the history of Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on the revival of age-old recipes. Chef Albert Raurich and his team bring to life dishes inspired by various civilizations that have influenced the Mediterranean culinary landscape. From their gnocchi, a dish rooted in 7th century Rome, to their innovative tapas, the restaurant showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary cooking techniques.
Recommended by
Explore the origins of Mediterranean cuisineA super restaurant in the Raval that looks to the civilisations that have come and gone in the Mediterranean and what they ate for inspiration. Some interesting use of garums, and nice plays on texture and temperature as you'd expect from ex-elBulli, but also brilliant meat cooking. Take a seat at the counter and marvel at the calmness of the kitchen as you work your way through the tasting menu or a la carte.
Suculent
Rambla del Raval, 45
Rambla del Raval, 45, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Suculent is a cozy eatery known for its creative Spanish meat and fish dishes crafted by El Bulli alum, Antonio Romero. The restaurant bridges Catalan tradition and creativity, offering balanced tasting menus that pair well with an array of wines. From slow-cooked stocks and sauces to reimagined classics, Suculent promises a culinary experience that respects tradition while embracing innovation.
Recommended by
Fine dining without nitrogen Suculent is like a bridge between Catalan tradition and creativity, it’s fine dining without espuma and nitrogen but with friendly service and the cozy atmosphere of a gastropub. The tasting menus are balanced and you don’t feel overstuffed after the meal. It’s also a rare example of value for money and an interesting and not too fancy wine pairing.
Restaurant nairod
C/ d'Aribau, 141
C/ d'Aribau, 141, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
Restaurant Nairod is a cozy spot known for its market-inspired cuisine crafted by Chef David Rustarazo. The restaurant stands out for its frequently changing menu, focusing on seasonal and local products, including exceptional game dishes. Customers frequently highlight the warm ambiance, the creative dishes like cabbage farçellet filled with wild quail and peas from Maresme with black sausage, and the top-notch croquetas.
Recommended by
The place where you will possibly eat the best game dishes in Barcelona.I love their menu, which changes very often since they work with seasonal and local products. Nice ambient in the middle of Barcelona Eixample.
El Xampanyet
C/ de Montcada, 22
C/ de Montcada, 22, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
El Xampanyet is a well-known centenary tapas bar, managed by Joan Carles Ninou, offering a lively atmosphere. This spot is popular among both locals and tourists, serving homemade sparkling wine and a variety of tapas, including their signature cod omelette, calamari, and chickpeas with pancetta. Despite its small size and constant crowd, it's praised for its authentic vibe, traditional and innovative tapas, and notably, its anchovies.
Recommended by
Iconic tapas bar in El Born with great mix of locals and tourists.El Xampanyet is a tapas bar in the El Born district named after the homemade sparkling wine that it serves. Good tapas, both funky and traditional vibes. Great mix of locals and tourist all day long. No reservations.
Alkimia
Rda. de Sant Antoni, 41
Rda. de Sant Antoni, 41, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Alkimia, run by chef Jordi Vilà, offers a fresh take on traditional Catalan cuisine. This restaurant is known for its high-level signature dishes that delve into the past, present, and future of Catalan gastronomy, pushing the boundaries of culinary execution. At Alkimia, you will always find Jordi Vilà in the kitchen, ensuring every dish reveals the secrets of Catalan culinary tradition.
Recommended by
A safe bet. A restaurant with high-level signature cuisine, which seeks all the nuances of the traditional Catalan cuisine. Run by Jordi Vilà.
Cal Pep
Plaça de les Olles, 8
Plaça de les Olles, 8, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Cal Pep is a renowned tapas restaurant, serving Spain's finest tapas since 1989. This bustling local hotspot is known for its lively atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, offering a variety of seafood and other dishes, particularly those with shells like clams, razor clams, prawns, and eggs. The restaurant prides itself on its fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared simply to enhance their flavors, and served in a way that encourages sharing and enjoyment, akin to the tapas style.
Recommended by
Buzzy local tapas and seafood bar - this place is a must when in BarcelonaLively and great atmosphere, funny waitstaff with great local knowledge and attitudeUser friendly beverage offering with great local favouritesOrder anything with a shell - clams, razor clams, prawns, eggs
Sartoria Panatieri
C/ de Provença, 330
C/ de Provença, 330, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Sartoria Panatieri is a Neapolitan style pizzeria that emphasizes a 'from farm to pizza' approach, ensuring fresh and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is run by chefs Rafa Pannatiere and Jorge, who apply their experience from haute cuisine and global traditions to create a new dimension for each product. Notably, all the sausages and cheeses used at Sartoria Panatieri are produced in-house, reflecting their commitment to sustainable and high-standard culinary practices.
Recommended by
Seasonal and high-standard pizzería from locals who think about the planet. Chefs Rafa Pannatiere, who worked for seven years at Celler de Can Roca, and his partner Jorge highlight a new dimension of each product, and incorporate them using their haute cuisine techniques and knowledge of traditions from all corners of the globe. They are also producing all sausages and cheeses used at Sartoria Panatieri.
Maleducat
Carrer de Manso, 54
Carrer de Manso, 54, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
Maleducat offers an engaging culinary experience with its on-point Catalan cooking, featuring seasonal ingredients in dishes that truly shine. The restaurant's menu, inspired by the nearby Sant Antoni Market, includes unique dishes like confit of leeks with hazelnut vinaigrette and mato cheese, Maresme peas with cod tripe, egg yolk and blood sausage, and a delightful crunchy 'spring roll' of hare royale with chocolate sauce. With its owner-chef approach, Maleducat provides an accessible dining experience without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Recommended by
On point Catalan cookingPart of Barcelona’s burgeoning trend for owner-chefs’ small restaurants, where the cooking, and seasonal ingredients, really shine, and the price is accessible. Maleducat is right next to Sant Antoni Market, which informs dishes like confit of leeks with hazelnut vinaigrette and mato cheese, and Maresme peas with cod tripe, egg yolk and blood sausage. Shout out to the crunchy ‘spring roll’ of hare royale and chocolate sauce too, which was an utter delight.
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo is a traditional tapas bar that has been serving delicious food for decades in Mercado de la Boqueria food market. This family-run eatery, boasting three generations of culinary expertise, is known for its fresh and flavorful tapas. Patrons recommend sitting at the bar and asking the chefs to whip up a meal for an authentic experience.
Recommended by
Traditional family Catalan tapas bar in Mercado de la Boqueria.Traditional family Catalan tapas bar in Mercado de la Boqueria.Such a cool street food bar, sit down and ask the chefs to cook for you. 3 generations of family, with personality and passion for delicious, fresh food.
El Quim de la Boqueria
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
El Quim de la Boqueria
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
El Quim de la Boqueria is a long-standing market restaurant known for its inventive tapas. Since 1987, it has been serving traditional market cuisine using local produce in the heart of one of the world's most emblematic markets. The restaurant is named after its owner, Quim, who is also the driving force behind its authentic service and culinary creations.
Recommended by
Long-standing market restaurant serving inventive TAPAS. Located in the middle of Barcelona's emblematic BOQUERIASince 1987. Extraordinary traditional market cuisine in the heart of one of the most emblematic markets in the world. El Quim is one of those places that you should always visit and for which you don't need an excuse. Local produce, traditional cuisine and authentic service. Quim is the name of the restaurant and the name of its owner who you will find at the helm of the stall day in and day out.
Entrepans Díaz
C. de Pau Claris, 189
C. de Pau Claris, 189, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Entrepans Díaz is a vibrant spot renowned for its Spanish cuisine, particularly its signature sandwiches. The restaurant provides a modern twist on traditional tapas, filling sandwiches with classic recipes. Visitors often commend the high-quality food and excellent service, with the sandwich offerings being a standout feature.
Recommended by
New-old school tapas Bar how to fill a sandwich with a classic recipeGood food and excellent service as an old school tapas bar. The highlights for sure are all the signature sandwiches as the meaning of the name of the place Entrepanes (in between bread)
Casa maians
C. de Sant Carles, 28
C. de Sant Carles, 28, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Casa Maians is a humble, family-run restaurant nestled in the La Barceloneta neighborhood, known for its outstanding Catalan cuisine. The restaurant has a daily changing menu, with a special focus on arroces (rice dishes), which are highly recommended by visitors. The cozy ambiance, coupled with its Mediterranean market cuisine, makes it a great spot for those seeking a taste of local Catalan and Mediterranean dishes.
Recommended by
A hidden gem ! Outstanding Catalan cuisine It’s a very humble restaurant run by a lovely couple, tucked in the La Barceloneta neighborhood.They serve Catalan family-style cuisine, but with a level of quality and execution you can expect from a high end restaurant.The menu changes daily (always a good sign) but they are specialized in arroces (and they are truly outstanding)
Haddock - La Taverne Canaille
C/ de València, 181
C/ de València, 181, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Haddock - La Taverne Canaille is known for its soulful Catalan cooking, delivering dishes made from exquisite produce. The ambience is enhanced by groovy tunes, making it a spot where food and music blend perfectly. As per recommendations, Chef Franc Monraba's culinary skills are a highlight, offering a taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.
Recommended by
Incredible soulful Catalan cooking. Exquisite produce and groovy tunes.The kind of place you almost hate to recommend - Barcelona’s open secret, Haddock, features Chef Franc Monraba’s incredible soulful Catalan cooking. Exquisite produce and groovy tunes.
Dos Pebrots
C. del Doctor Dou, 19
C. del Doctor Dou, 19, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Dos Pebrots delves into the history of Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on the revival of age-old recipes. Chef Albert Raurich and his team bring to life dishes inspired by various civilizations that have influenced the Mediterranean culinary landscape. From their gnocchi, a dish rooted in 7th century Rome, to their innovative tapas, the restaurant showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary cooking techniques.
Recommended by
Explore the origins of Mediterranean cuisineA super restaurant in the Raval that looks to the civilisations that have come and gone in the Mediterranean and what they ate for inspiration. Some interesting use of garums, and nice plays on texture and temperature as you'd expect from ex-elBulli, but also brilliant meat cooking. Take a seat at the counter and marvel at the calmness of the kitchen as you work your way through the tasting menu or a la carte.
Suculent
Rambla del Raval, 45
Rambla del Raval, 45, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Suculent is a cozy eatery known for its creative Spanish meat and fish dishes crafted by El Bulli alum, Antonio Romero. The restaurant bridges Catalan tradition and creativity, offering balanced tasting menus that pair well with an array of wines. From slow-cooked stocks and sauces to reimagined classics, Suculent promises a culinary experience that respects tradition while embracing innovation.
Recommended by
Fine dining without nitrogen Suculent is like a bridge between Catalan tradition and creativity, it’s fine dining without espuma and nitrogen but with friendly service and the cozy atmosphere of a gastropub. The tasting menus are balanced and you don’t feel overstuffed after the meal. It’s also a rare example of value for money and an interesting and not too fancy wine pairing.
Restaurant nairod
C/ d'Aribau, 141
C/ d'Aribau, 141, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
Restaurant Nairod is a cozy spot known for its market-inspired cuisine crafted by Chef David Rustarazo. The restaurant stands out for its frequently changing menu, focusing on seasonal and local products, including exceptional game dishes. Customers frequently highlight the warm ambiance, the creative dishes like cabbage farçellet filled with wild quail and peas from Maresme with black sausage, and the top-notch croquetas.
Recommended by
The place where you will possibly eat the best game dishes in Barcelona.I love their menu, which changes very often since they work with seasonal and local products. Nice ambient in the middle of Barcelona Eixample.
El Xampanyet
C/ de Montcada, 22
C/ de Montcada, 22, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
El Xampanyet is a well-known centenary tapas bar, managed by Joan Carles Ninou, offering a lively atmosphere. This spot is popular among both locals and tourists, serving homemade sparkling wine and a variety of tapas, including their signature cod omelette, calamari, and chickpeas with pancetta. Despite its small size and constant crowd, it's praised for its authentic vibe, traditional and innovative tapas, and notably, its anchovies.
Recommended by
Iconic tapas bar in El Born with great mix of locals and tourists.El Xampanyet is a tapas bar in the El Born district named after the homemade sparkling wine that it serves. Good tapas, both funky and traditional vibes. Great mix of locals and tourist all day long. No reservations.
Alkimia
Rda. de Sant Antoni, 41
Rda. de Sant Antoni, 41, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Alkimia, run by chef Jordi Vilà, offers a fresh take on traditional Catalan cuisine. This restaurant is known for its high-level signature dishes that delve into the past, present, and future of Catalan gastronomy, pushing the boundaries of culinary execution. At Alkimia, you will always find Jordi Vilà in the kitchen, ensuring every dish reveals the secrets of Catalan culinary tradition.
Recommended by
A safe bet. A restaurant with high-level signature cuisine, which seeks all the nuances of the traditional Catalan cuisine. Run by Jordi Vilà.
Cal Pep
Plaça de les Olles, 8
Plaça de les Olles, 8, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Cal Pep is a renowned tapas restaurant, serving Spain's finest tapas since 1989. This bustling local hotspot is known for its lively atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, offering a variety of seafood and other dishes, particularly those with shells like clams, razor clams, prawns, and eggs. The restaurant prides itself on its fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared simply to enhance their flavors, and served in a way that encourages sharing and enjoyment, akin to the tapas style.
Recommended by
Buzzy local tapas and seafood bar - this place is a must when in BarcelonaLively and great atmosphere, funny waitstaff with great local knowledge and attitudeUser friendly beverage offering with great local favouritesOrder anything with a shell - clams, razor clams, prawns, eggs
Sartoria Panatieri
C/ de Provença, 330
C/ de Provença, 330, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Sartoria Panatieri is a Neapolitan style pizzeria that emphasizes a 'from farm to pizza' approach, ensuring fresh and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is run by chefs Rafa Pannatiere and Jorge, who apply their experience from haute cuisine and global traditions to create a new dimension for each product. Notably, all the sausages and cheeses used at Sartoria Panatieri are produced in-house, reflecting their commitment to sustainable and high-standard culinary practices.
Recommended by
Seasonal and high-standard pizzería from locals who think about the planet. Chefs Rafa Pannatiere, who worked for seven years at Celler de Can Roca, and his partner Jorge highlight a new dimension of each product, and incorporate them using their haute cuisine techniques and knowledge of traditions from all corners of the globe. They are also producing all sausages and cheeses used at Sartoria Panatieri.
Maleducat
Carrer de Manso, 54
Carrer de Manso, 54, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
Maleducat offers an engaging culinary experience with its on-point Catalan cooking, featuring seasonal ingredients in dishes that truly shine. The restaurant's menu, inspired by the nearby Sant Antoni Market, includes unique dishes like confit of leeks with hazelnut vinaigrette and mato cheese, Maresme peas with cod tripe, egg yolk and blood sausage, and a delightful crunchy 'spring roll' of hare royale with chocolate sauce. With its owner-chef approach, Maleducat provides an accessible dining experience without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Recommended by
On point Catalan cookingPart of Barcelona’s burgeoning trend for owner-chefs’ small restaurants, where the cooking, and seasonal ingredients, really shine, and the price is accessible. Maleducat is right next to Sant Antoni Market, which informs dishes like confit of leeks with hazelnut vinaigrette and mato cheese, and Maresme peas with cod tripe, egg yolk and blood sausage. Shout out to the crunchy ‘spring roll’ of hare royale and chocolate sauce too, which was an utter delight.
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo is a traditional tapas bar that has been serving delicious food for decades in Mercado de la Boqueria food market. This family-run eatery, boasting three generations of culinary expertise, is known for its fresh and flavorful tapas. Patrons recommend sitting at the bar and asking the chefs to whip up a meal for an authentic experience.
Recommended by
Traditional family Catalan tapas bar in Mercado de la Boqueria.Traditional family Catalan tapas bar in Mercado de la Boqueria.Such a cool street food bar, sit down and ask the chefs to cook for you. 3 generations of family, with personality and passion for delicious, fresh food.
Bar Restaurant Pinotxo
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21
Carrer del Compte d'Urgell 1 Mercat de Sant Antoni 18-19-20-21, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
El Quim de la Boqueria
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
El Quim de la Boqueria is a long-standing market restaurant known for its inventive tapas. Since 1987, it has been serving traditional market cuisine using local produce in the heart of one of the world's most emblematic markets. The restaurant is named after its owner, Quim, who is also the driving force behind its authentic service and culinary creations.
Recommended by
Long-standing market restaurant serving inventive TAPAS. Located in the middle of Barcelona's emblematic BOQUERIASince 1987. Extraordinary traditional market cuisine in the heart of one of the most emblematic markets in the world. El Quim is one of those places that you should always visit and for which you don't need an excuse. Local produce, traditional cuisine and authentic service. Quim is the name of the restaurant and the name of its owner who you will find at the helm of the stall day in and day out.
El Quim de la Boqueria
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91
Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Entrepans Díaz
C. de Pau Claris, 189
C. de Pau Claris, 189, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Entrepans Díaz is a vibrant spot renowned for its Spanish cuisine, particularly its signature sandwiches. The restaurant provides a modern twist on traditional tapas, filling sandwiches with classic recipes. Visitors often commend the high-quality food and excellent service, with the sandwich offerings being a standout feature.
Recommended by
New-old school tapas Bar how to fill a sandwich with a classic recipeGood food and excellent service as an old school tapas bar. The highlights for sure are all the signature sandwiches as the meaning of the name of the place Entrepanes (in between bread)
Casa maians
C. de Sant Carles, 28
C. de Sant Carles, 28, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Casa Maians is a humble, family-run restaurant nestled in the La Barceloneta neighborhood, known for its outstanding Catalan cuisine. The restaurant has a daily changing menu, with a special focus on arroces (rice dishes), which are highly recommended by visitors. The cozy ambiance, coupled with its Mediterranean market cuisine, makes it a great spot for those seeking a taste of local Catalan and Mediterranean dishes.
Recommended by
A hidden gem ! Outstanding Catalan cuisine It’s a very humble restaurant run by a lovely couple, tucked in the La Barceloneta neighborhood.They serve Catalan family-style cuisine, but with a level of quality and execution you can expect from a high end restaurant.The menu changes daily (always a good sign) but they are specialized in arroces (and they are truly outstanding)
Haddock - La Taverne Canaille
C/ de València, 181
C/ de València, 181, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Haddock - La Taverne Canaille is known for its soulful Catalan cooking, delivering dishes made from exquisite produce. The ambience is enhanced by groovy tunes, making it a spot where food and music blend perfectly. As per recommendations, Chef Franc Monraba's culinary skills are a highlight, offering a taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.
Recommended by
Incredible soulful Catalan cooking. Exquisite produce and groovy tunes.The kind of place you almost hate to recommend - Barcelona’s open secret, Haddock, features Chef Franc Monraba’s incredible soulful Catalan cooking. Exquisite produce and groovy tunes.
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