Where to eat in Barcelona? Our Guide to the Best Restaurants in The City

Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world and is also infamous for its culinary options. From traditional tapas to contemporary, molecular cooking, the city has something to offer for anyone interested in joining its gastronomy. With all these choices, it may be hard to decide which ones to try first, so here is a guide of the best restaurants in Barcelona that you should visit, whether you’re looking for a pinch of Catalan culture or simply a special experience.

1. 7 Portes

One of the most iconic restaurants in Barcelona and a favorite of locals, 7 Portes is the greatest example of a classic Spanish tavern: lively atmosphere, utterly generous servings of tasty dishes and specialized in seafood delights. Established in 1836 by a union of seven families, this restaurant is the perfect place for an appetizing dinner, with their famous paella as the star of the menu. Located at Passeig Isabel II 14, in the old city center, they also offer a daily lunch menu with three courses plus bread and drinks.

2. Lasarte

If what you are looking for is a unique experience delivered with excellence and style, Lasarte might be your ideal place. This two Michelin-starred restaurant is managed by the Basque Chef Martín Berasategui and situated at the 10th floor of the upmarket Hotel Omm, at Carrer de Rosselló 265-269. With a perfect pairing of flavors and textures, their nine-course tasting menu will take you on a gastronomic journey you won’t soon forget.

3. La Fonda

A long-time staple at the bustling Rambla de Barcelona, La Fonda is a fantastic spot for traditional Catalan cuisine. Located at La Rambla 83, this restaurant offers menu options based on typical regional dishes, such as calçots (charred onions) in winter and escalivada (roasted vegetables) in summer. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Catalan gastronomy, La Fonda will definitely not disappoint.

4. Cervecería Catalana

Getting inspired by the ancient tabernas from Madrid, Cervecería Catalana opened at Carrer de Mallorca 236 in 1996 and since then it has kept its well-deserved fame as one of the best tapas restaurants in Barcelona. Here you will find an extensive selection of Spanish classics such as croquettes and of course great beer. But don’t be fooled by its cozy atmosphere: Catalana is one of Barcelona’s trendiest places, so make sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

5. Can Majó

This family-run restaurant stands in Sant Martí neighborhood, at Carrer del Drac 75. Serving classic Mediterranean dishes with contemporary touches since 1978, Can Majó is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious seafood fare. Highlights include their baked rice with clams and their rice cooked in squid ink, both dressed with an exquisite extra virgin olive oil selected by the head chef himself. In addition to a first-rate service, they also offer a cozy terrace which overlooks a romantic inner street.

6. Can Solé

Another classic seafood restaurant in Barcelona is Can Solé. Since 1786, this popular establishment has been faithfully serving superb fish dishes to generations of locals and tourists alike. Located at Passeig del Born 9, this delightful tavern offers classic Catalan cuisine with Mediterranean accents. Their specialties include “arròs negre” (rice cooked in squid ink) and “suquet” (fish stew in a tomato-based sauce), both made using fresh ingredients caught from the local markets.

7. Quimet & Quimet

Often cited as one of Barcelona’s premier tapas spots, Quimet & Quimet should definitely be included on any food lover’s map of Barcelona. This tiny space at Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes 25 holds a massive selection of over 200 artisanal wines and 30 kinds of mouth-watering tapas such as “espetecs” (grilled catsh) and thick anchovy sandwiches served on freshly baked bread. People usually end up crowding around the bar during lunch time to fetch themselves a tasty bite before heading out again.

8. Hisop

Feeling adventurous? Hisop at Carrer de Lepant 295 may just be what you’re looking for. With its award-winning cuisine and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant offers an unforgettable journey into contemporary molecular cooking with each bite carefully created according to seasonal ingredients from local markets. The chef’s eight-course tasting menu might definitely be worth the splurge.

9. Rambla de mar

Rather than being in your traditional fine dining setting, Rambla de mar feels more like you ‘re dining outside under the open skies: situated in Port Olímpic close to Barceloneta beach you can enjoy amazing Mediterranean dishes with amazing views of the sea and port.. With casual but still outstanding service, Rambla de Mar serves some of the best seafood dishes in the city and also caters a lounge area with modern furniture that makes the most out of your visit to the beach!

10. Casa Guinart

The ultimate place to taste Catalan cocina comparada: traditional regional dishes with an unexpected twist. Casa Guinart stands near La Rambla’s junction with Carrer de la Portaferrissa, at number 35. From “calçots” (charred onions) cooked with white chocolate foam to crunchy artichokes prepared like cannelloni, your taste buds will certainly be kept guessing throughout your visit here. Having said all our rcommendations for restaurants for your visit in Barcelona, we particularly recommend 7 Portes which still is to this day a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its luxrious seafood medleys and for being one of the oldest standing eateries in town since 1836; could serve as one of the best experiences for not only your stomach but also to marvel over its historical background. We hope you have found this guide helpful and come back with an awesome experience from Barcelona after exploring the many restaurants we have provided! 7 Portes, Lasarte, La Fonda, Cervecería Catalana, Can Majó, Can Solé, Quimet & Quimet, Hisop,