The Barcelona Guide

@goop
 on 2022.02.03
Multiple locations
63 Places
@goop
Barcelona is a city full of wonder and beauty, where there's a pronounced passion for life, food, culture, and of course, architecture. Where else can you surf in the morning, do a master tour of Gaudí’s surreal buildings (the Sagrada Familia and the Parc Güell, to name a couple), eat the best tapas of your life and get lost wandering the labyrinthine, majestic streets of the Barrio Gótico? Below, some of our favorite spots—along with some recommendations from friends who love the city as much as we do.

Picasso Museum

Art museum · Sant Pere

"The downside to going to the Picasso museum in Barcelona is you're likely to run into a line. (Although you can purchase tickets online to cut down on waiting time.) But for Picasso and art lovers, the museum affords a unique look at the artist's early work, which makes sense given that Picasso spent his formative years here in Barcelona. The museum setting itself also feels special—Museu Picasso is housed in five Catalan-gothic palaces with central courtyards and open-air staircases that date back to the 13th- to 15th-centuries. "

Can Framis Museum 🏭

Modern art museum · el Parc i la Llacuna del Poblenou

"It's hard not to get lured in by Catalan culture when in Barcelona, and for those who want to go a little deeper there's the Can Framis which shows some of the greatest local contemporary artists from the last 60 years. The real draw here, though, is the building itself and its surrounding green spaces by local Catalan (of course) architect Jordi Badia. There's something incredibly serene about the hulking, semi-industrial space in this quiet old neighborhood."

La Plataforma

Art gallery · el Poblenou

"More than a gallery, this is a hub of cultural activity with a studio workspace for artists in the back. With a constant stream of evening events from art sales, to openings, to food and drink tastings, this a hotspot for young artists and a great place to discover young talent."

La Escocesa

Art center · Provencals del Poblenou

"While this arts studio and co-working space doesn't necessarily function as a gallery—they have one gallery night a month and otherwise you have to book to tour the space—it's definitely one of the best places to understand the contemporary art scene in Barcelona as it's where the freshest work is coming out of. The ever-evolving display of graffiti on the walls outside alone is worth the trip."

FundaciĂł Antoni TĂ pies

Art museum · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"The collection at Fundació Antoni Tàpies may be a little esoteric for non-art buffs, but it's certainly a legit, if less mainstream museum experience. The bulk of the Fundació is comprised of works by Antoni Tàpies, a distinguished painter and Barcelona native who passed away in 2012. Tàpies's diverse body of work touches everything from the abstract, to Surrealism, sculptures, tactile object works made of a combination of unlikely materials, and his textured, layered "matter paintings." The museum, which Tàpies founded in 1984 (and opened in 1990), sits in an old publishing house that was originally constructed in 1880—and many architectural details have been preserved. (For example, the shelves in the Fundació library are the original shelves from the publishing warehouse.)"

Joan MirĂł Foundation

Modern art museum · el Poble Sec

"Seminal 20th-century artist Joan MirĂł was born in Barcelona in 1893, but he was most influenced by the years he spent outside Barcelona, in Mont-roig (a small Catalan town), Majorca, Paris, Japan, and New York. You can see some of MirĂł's work in the States (sculptures in Chicago and Houston, paintings at MoMa) but seeing such a comprehensive edit of his art at FundaciĂł Joan MirĂł, a space created by MirĂł himself in 1975, is a whole different experience. In addition to the museum's MirĂł collection, other artists from the 20th- and 21st-centuries are occasionally featured in varied temporary exhibitions."

El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria

Cultural center · Sant Pere

"The Born neighborhood has a bit of an artistic reputation, so it's really no surprise that when it came time to remodel their market, they re-imagined it as a historic and cultural center. The new project was first unveiled in 2013, corresponding with the tricentennial of the Siege of Barcelona—a hugely important date to Catalans, as it represents the end of the War of Spanish Succession and the last time Catalonia was independent from Spain. The market itself is a historic structure, as it was the first Spanish market to be built in the iron-framed, French market style, but an excavation beneath the old floor reveals ruins that date back to medieval times. A permanent exhibition explores life in the city in the early 1700s, and is a great way to dip a toe into the city's complicated and fascinating history. You can also check their website for lectures, music performances, and temporary art exhibitions."

CaixaForum Barcelona

Cultural center · la Font de la Guatlla

"CaixaBank is Spain's largest bank, and its foundation, La Caixa, is one of the largest in the world. CaixaForum, their signature cultural program, exists in every major Spanish city (and a few smaller cities as well), offering cultural programs such as art exhibitions, live music, kids programs, film screenings, and more. The Barcelona iteration, housed in a renovated textile factory, is one of the largest in the country."

Les Gens Que J'Aime

Cocktail bar · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"When GP wandered into this bar a few years ago with some friends, she ended up staying all night. Its dark, old-fashioned décor makes it reminiscent of a library in the coolest way. Plus, it has great drinks and good music."

Soho House Barcelona

Extended stay hotel · Barri Gotic

"Nick Jones can do no wrong, and the Barcelona outpost of Soho House is no exception. Located on the edge of the artsy Gothic Quarter and looking out onto the marina means you’re right in the middle of the action, minutes from all the best restaurants and sights—if you can bring yourself to leave the club. First-time visitors (non-members can book rooms, which is a huge plus) will appreciate the special attention paid to design details, like authentic Catalan fabrics and Spanish tiles in every room; meanwhile, members will feel right at home thanks to the familiar luxe yet lived-in aesthetic. This house has all the facilities of a luxury hotel (signature cowshed spa, bustling rooftop pool, restaurants and a cool speakeasy-themed basement bar) and all the expected creature comforts like fully stocked bathrooms, Nespresso machines, even hair straighteners. "

Mirablau

Spanish restaurant · Sant Gervasi - la Bonanova

"Mirablau is a favorite for its prime Tibidabo mountain location, which affords an amazing, panoramic view of Barcelona. Grab a cocktail and a seat next to the huge window overlooking the city—a tough spot to beat."

MAMAINÉ BARCELONA

Cocktail bar · Sant Pere

"Mamainé is on the small side, but it has a really great, relaxed vibe, and it's in a charming neighborhood. It sort of goes without saying that this is where you'll find the best mojitos in all of Barcelona."

Bar Marsella

Bar · el Raval

"Founded in 1820, Bar Marsella is famous for having served the likes of Dalí, Hemingway, Gaudí, and Picasso. Today, the crowd skews young and university. Its specialty is still abstinthe—i.e. no-joke, strong drinks."

Cañete

Restaurant · el Raval

"Part of a family-founded restaurant business, Bar Cañete is part tapas bar, part restaurant. Its long, narrow dining room, decorated with red banquettes and rich mahogany details, gives way to a wooden bar where diners sit, looking into the restaurant's open kitchen. Here, the menu is a mix of traditional tapas, fresh market seafood, and prime cuts of beef and pork. Note: Bar Cañete takes reservations but not for day-of."

Granja M. Viader

Cafeteria · el Raval

"A fifth-generation family-run establishment, Granja M. Viader feels like a Spanish take on the traditional American diner. Known for their pastries and thick hot chocolate, and traditionally dressed waiters (white button down, black tuxedo vest, and bow tie), this spot is best for a special treat kind of a breakfast. And if you don't have time for a sit-down meal, you can also order bakery items to go. "

Cinc Sentits

Fine dining restaurant · la Nova Esquerra de l'Eixample

"Tuesday through Saturday, at lunch and dinner, Cinc Sentits serves a remarkable tasting menu, four or six course. (Nora Ephron, who told us she hates tasting menus in principle, called her lunch here "an astonishment.") The Catalan cuisine at Cinc Sentits changes based on what is currently in season and freshest: line-caught fish from villages along the Mediterranean coast, artisanal cheeses from Catalan towns, organic butter and beef from the Pyrenees. And you can opt to have your tasting accompanied by Cinc Sentits's thoughtfully curated wine pairings sourced from Catalonia, along with a selection from across Spain."

Can Pineda

Catalonian restaurant · el Clot

"Can Pineda is famous for really traditional Spanish cooking and an old-school style. It's a bit of a classic—we first learned about it when GP filmed there during a PBS food special a few years ago called Spain... on the Road Again. Definitely order the rice with mushrooms."

Dos Palillos

Asian fusion restaurant · el Raval

"This Far East-inspired restaurant is the brainchild of Albert Raurich—who spent nearly a dozen years at Ferran Adrià's El Bulli, seven of which he was head chef. Located in the Casa Camper hotel, Dos Palillos has two bar areas—the Asian bar serves their tasting menu at dinner, and at the more casual-feeling tapas bar, it's à la carte for lunch and dinner. There are also two spaces offering a bit more seating—the outdoor terrace and the signature Dos Palillos table, which fits about a dozen guests. Not surprisingly, the menu varies, but expect dishes like crispy chicken bites with curry, grilled oyster with sake, tuna steak temaki with nori, and burgers served on homemade bread with ginger."

Botafumeiro

Seafood restaurant · la Vila de Gracia

"Botafumeiro is a warm family restaurant where you're just as likely to see dignitaries as local celebs. Sit at the bar (kind of a Spanish version of an oyster bar) and have a late lunch."

Cuina Estudi Carme Ruscalleda

Studying center · Sant Pol de Mar

"Chef Carme Ruscalleda owns and operates this beautiful place overlooking the sea. Her food is Michelin-starred, inventive, and delicious. While Sant Pol de Mar is a bit outside of Barcelona, it's a charming seaside town and makes an excellent day trip."

Bodega 1900

Permanently Closed

"Bodega 1900 is just across the street from Tickets, another Albert AdriĂ  spot, where you'll find a fresh spin on the classic tapas and vermouth bar. Bright white tiles and oversized cabinetry add to the charming, at-home vibe, though the real pull is the salty creations (salazones) served alongside smoked, grilled, and pickled plates that are a bit more innovative than what you'll find at your basic joint."

Xiringuito EscribĂ 

Restaurant · el Poblenou

"The paella is nice, but what’s great about this “chiringuito” is that it’s right on the beach so it comes with spectacular views. On a sunny day (and with some great company), it's a quintessentially Barcelona experience. Seats fill up quickly so call ahead."

La Balsa

Mediterranean restaurant · Sant Gervasi - la Bonanova

"With its wooden architecture and a wide open-air porch, La Balsa is the type of place where you'll want to stall a little while you finish off your bottle of wine post-meal. In August, their evening buffet is amazing—it's a bit pricey and there are moments it can feel like a scene, but it's a great place for a summer night."

Can MartĂ­ Restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant · Vallvidrera

"Can Martí is a very informal restaurant in the mountains, best accessed by a hike along the Carretera de las Aigües, a dirt road where people from Barcelona go to jog, bike, and walk their dogs. Accordingly, it offers great views of the city. The food is simple, with dishes like tortilla de patata, judías blancas, barbequed meat, salads, and barbequed calçots. It’s essential to reserve in advance, and if it’s calçot season, reserve those, too."

Cal Pep

Tapas restaurant · Sant Pere

"A tiny, popular spot situated on a corner of Plaça de les Olles, Cal Pep serves Mediterranean tapas and larger dishes best shared. The front bar is where the party is at (get there early if you want to grab a coveted stool), but you can also reserve a table (in advance) in the back room for a party of four or more."

la taverna

Permanently Closed

"Taverna—you'll know it from its flashy red-painted exterior—is actually the little sister of nearby Suculent, an upscale tasting menu type of place from Carles Abellan. Like so many of the best chefs in the city, Abellan is a former protege of Ferran Adrià—his first solo venture was another favorite of ours, Comerç, 24. Unlike its sit-down neighbor, La Taverna del Suculent is more casual; guests order tapas and finger food directly from the bar and can eat them standing, and wine flows freely. Order the crispy tortillitas, or anything that involves ham. "

La Cuina del Ninot

Permanently Closed

"En Compañia de Lobos is a young-feeling restaurant group that also happens to operate two of our favorite restaurants in Madrid (Ana la Santa and Bosco de Lobos). This outpost in Barcelona is situated inside the recently renovated Mercat del Ninot, which has been beautifully overhauled and filled with more prepared-food options in an effort to appeal to Barcelona's younger crowd. Tall, open ceilings connect the space to the rest of the market, so despite the clean wooden walls and elegant full-circle bar, the humming of customers and activity gently filters into the space. The menu is focused on traditional Catalan food (tapas), but the thing to order is the 3-course menu of the day (just 14 euros), which serves up whatever looked good in the market that morning. "

Restaurant El PassadĂ­s del Pep

Restaurant · Sant Pere

"It's easy to miss Passadís del Pep if you don't know what you're looking for—the more than 30-year-old spot is located down a long hallway in a nondescript apartment building, and there's no sign, so follow the address exactly. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by a traditional-looking dining room, with stone walls, white tablecloths, impeccable service, and no menu in sight, as owner Joan Manubens Figueras prefers to serve whatever looks freshest at the market. When he first started the restaurant, the kitchen was run by his mother, and he continues to cook in her traditional style—fresh food founded in great ingredients and simple preparation, with a heavy emphasis on gorgeous local seafood (there are always a lot of crustaceans on offer). The no-menu situation also means no prices until you get the check, so expect to pay around 120 euros per person (including wine). "

Suquet De L'Almirall

Permanently Closed

"The philosophy behind Suquet de l'Almirall, helmed by Quim Marqués, a fourth generation chef, is to feature seafood caught and sold in Barcelona's harbors—most of their ingredients are purchased at the local fish market, which is just steps from the seaside restaurant. The menu is filled with classically Catalan (but often adventurous) seafood dishes like fried anchovies and an insanely good paella. Don't leave without ordering the suquet, the signature huge bowl of steamed shellfish. Try to get a seat on the beautiful outdoor patio. "

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

Hotel · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"Every bit as incredible as you'd want a Mandarin Oriental hotel to be, the chain's Barcelona location is in the center of the city, on the architecturally historic and shopping-centric Passeig de Gràcia. The 360-degree views of the city from the hotel's rooftop pool and Terrat restaurant are stunning, and some of the suites have pretty amazing views, too (i.e., looking out onto Gaudí's Casa Batlló). If you have time for a pampering session at the Mandarin's spa while you're there—worth it. (And the hotel can arrange babysitting services for you, should you need, as long as you let them know a day in advance.)"

Hotel Claris

Hotel · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"Located just off Paseo de Gracia, Claris is a mix of classic decor and a slightly hipster vibe. Throughout the hotel, you'll find English furniture pieces from the 18th- and 19th-centuries, Roman sculptures from the 2nd- and 3rd-centuries, original etchings commissioned by Napoleon, and so on. There's also a museum featuring Egyptian art from the the Jordi Clos Archaeological Foundation’s private collection. And a modest rooftop pool."

Hotel Miramar Barcelona

Hotel · el Poble Sec

"Hotel Miramar sits a bit outside the city center, but you can be in the Las Ramblas district in minutes. Formerly a palace (built in 1922 by architect Ramon Raventós and inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII) the hotel has maintained its original, classy façade. And GP is a big fan of the sleek and minimalist interiors."

Hotel Casa Fuster

Hotel · la Vila de Gracia

"Designed by Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Casa Fuster is a modernist masterpiece. The interior bar, Café Vienés, is particularly beautiful—go here for a coffee or a cocktail. And on Thursday nights, between 9 and 11, the space transforms into a jazz club."

Hotel Casa Camper

Hotel · el Raval

"A very original, small hotel, Casa Camper is in a 19th-century gothic building in the Raval area of Ciutat Vella, around the corner from the Museu d’ Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) and the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB). In addition to being an adored hotel, Casa Camper is home to Albert Raurich's first-rate restaurant, Dos Palilos."

Casa Bonay

Hotel · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"Sure, there’s something about this 67-room boutique property that reads very Ace Hotel-like—the fact that founder Inés Miró-Sans worked with Brooklyn-based design firm Studio Tack to nail the subtly hipster aesthetic has a lot to do with it—but with its original tile work and open-air passageways, the 19th-century mansion that houses the hotel and its sibling businesses is European through and through. The pleasantly priced rooms range in size from teeny to sprawling (some even have private terraces complete with outdoor shower). You’ll also find the Elephant, Crocodile, Monkey restaurant, Mother juice bar, and Satan’s Coffee Corner without even having to leave the property. "

Margot House

Hotel · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"At just nine-rooms strong, a week spent at this elegant boutique property is a lot like staying at a local’s private home, if they had a concierge, laundry service, and a kitchen with snacks on demand 24/7. The minimalist but somehow still cozy bedrooms, with their Barcelona-made furniture and linens are kind of like living love letters to the city. Oh, and the Margot in Margot House is in reference to Margot Tenenbaum. "

Hotel Praktik Bakery

Hotel · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"While there are several Praktik mini-chain outposts in Barcelona, only one has a Baluard bakery right on site, meaning the scent of fresh-baked bread and pastry is included in the rates (which are some of the most reasonable in town). The whitewashed Lazaro Rosa-Violán-designed rooms are small but comfortable and come with all the basic creature comforts. And whatever the hotel lacks in glitz and glamour it more than makes up for in location…and carbs. "

Designed by Beatriz Furest

Fashion accessories store · Sant Gervasi - Galvany

"Even before she set out designing her namesake accessories line, Beatriz picked up on the importance of quality and longevity at a young age—her family has been in the apparel business since 1898. The Italian-leather totes, clutches, loafers, and flats on display at her teeny boutique all transcend seasonal trends and only look better the longer you wear them. There are also locations in Les Corts, Dreta de l'Eixample, and El Born. "

Chandal

Permanently Closed

"This color-happy shop is a paradise for anyone born before 1982 or old souls with an interest in records, polaroid cameras, and quirky home décor. While the kitschy stuff is clearly the draw, the offering of contemporary, design-centric brands like Fern Living, Papier Tigre, and HAY shouldn’t be missed. Also worth exploring is the excellent children’s section, stocked with everything from delightfully analog wooden toys to sweet retro-inspired enamel plates. Leave plenty of time to browse the wall of indie publications: All the usual suspects are here (Kinfolk, Toiletpaper, Cerial) plus more obscure titles like Kink and Victory. "

Iriarte Iriarte ( E - E )

Leather goods store · Sant Pere

"If you’re looking to invest in one great made-in-Barcelona item to bring home, one of Carolina Iriarte's handcrafted leather bags should be it. The two beautiful shops (each one looks more like an apartment than retail space) also serve as Iriarte’s workshops, so you can witness the slightly masculine, vintage-inspired satchels, elevated fanny packs, clutches, and briefcases come to life on the spot. The second outpost is on Calle Cotoners. "

Llibreria AltaĂŻr

Book store · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"Hailed as the biggest travel-centric bookshop in all of Europe, 30-year-old Altair is an essential stop for slightly less app-obsessed globetrotters. In addition to multi-lingual guides and maps for destinations far and wide, the shelves here are stacked with biographies, memoirs, and specialty tomes on everything from flora to fauna to architecture. "

La Manual Alpargatera

Shoe store · Barri Gotic

"Like Antigua Casa Crespo in Madrid, La Manual is where you want to go for authentic Spanish espadrilles. With roots that go back to the Spanish Civil War, it’s really no wonder the handmade slip-ons, slides, lace-ups, and wedges have amassed a cult-like following among locals. Tourists tend to get a little overwhelmed at the sight of floor-to-ceiling cubbies packed with shoes, but at under $50 a pop, leaving with multiple pairs is totally justifiable. "

Mar de Cava

Furniture store · la Vila de Gracia

"With a focus on Barcelona-based designers and under-the-radar lines from all over the world, this two-story multi-purpose space (shop, gallery, and studio) offers a little bit of everything, from furniture to home décor to clothing to kids toys to art. And while the assortment is vast, the fun, modern aesthetic acts as the unifying factor. To make the best use of the space, the owners host workshops, talks, and exhibits for the local community."

"Juanjo Fernandes is a popular local figure and long-time bookseller, and his MUTT gallery has a drool-worthy collection of books on art, architecture, graphic design, music, and more. Located in the arty Born neighborhood, it's also a great place to get a taste of the local art scene, as Fernandes always has an exhibition from a local artist on the walls. Pop in early on your trip to see if there are any events on the calendar; they often host lectures, live music, and fun openings."

Camp Nou

Temporarily Closed

"Watching this storied club play at their home stadium is a bucket list item for fĂştbol aficionados. But seeing a game there is really an incredibly cool experience even if you don't know who Lionel Messi is. The stadium, which was originally constructed in the mid-1950's, now seats a staggering 99,000+ people, many of whom are die-hard fans, meaning the collective energy of the crowd can be insane. If you're planning a trip to Barcelona during season, check the team's schedule to see if they're at home while you're in town. Although the games can get rowdy, this can also make a really fun outing for kids (who are old enough to sit for a couple hours) and teen travelers."

Montserrat

Mountain peak · Barcelona

"Although there is plenty to do in Barcelona, Montserrat makes a good day trip outside of the city. About 50 kilometers northwest of the city, you can get there via train in a little over an hour. The mountain is home to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, which can feel overrun with tourists at times, particularly near the statue of Catalonia's iconic saint, La Morenetta (the Black Virgin). For outdoors lovers, the real draw is Montserrat's hiking trails, which unwind above the monastery, and afford stunning views of the jagged, rocky cliff faces—and, as you climb higher—Catalonia sprawled out below."

"As one of Spain’s most renowned figures and a globally celebrated architect, a trip to Barcelona is not complete until you see some of Gaudí’s incredible work in person. Admittedly, touring Gaudí’s famed church, Sagrada Familia, can feel daunting—if you’re only in town for a few days, the idea of spending hours in a queue isn’t super appealing. (That said, there is good reason for the long line.) You can also just do a stroll-by—the exterior is impressive despite ongoing construction. And there are other worthy Gaudí creations to see throughout the city, like: Palau Güell (an early commissioned home palace in El Raval), Casa Battló (the remarkably mystical house on Passeig de Gràcia), Casa Milà (commonly referred to as La Pedrera, a near optical illusion of curved stone), and Park Güell (Gaudí’s enchantingly imagined landscape). For an easy-to-read map of these Gaudí sites, click here."

Quimet & Quimet

Tapas bar · el Poble Sec

"This place is a bit of a novelty—a tiny, very special tapas bar that only serves preserved food. The walls are lined with cans and jars and the people behind the counter assemble amazing little open-faced sandwiches. It’s really wonderful and quirky and unlike anywhere you’ve ever been."

Mercado de La Boqueria

Market · el Raval

"Mercat de la Boqueria is in the middle of Las Ramblas—you truly can’t miss it. It’s one of the most beautiful, lively markets in the world, and the inside is peppered with great little places to eat."

La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria

Chocolate cafe · Barri Gotic

"La Pallaresa is a great place to go for breakfast or an afternoon snack, or churros with “suizo” (melted chocolate with whipped cream) on a quiet weekend morning. It’s in the old Gothic Quarter around the corner from Plaça del Pi, a very cute square where you can sit down and read the newspaper. There are painters showing their work on Sundays, similar to Paris’ Place du Tertre in Montmartre. Photo: Chris Oakley"

"In the quiet, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood of Sarrià, this bar is a classic for tapas, especially the patatas bravas—everyone in Barcelona knows the “bravas del Tomás.” It's always full of students, so the atmosphere is crowded, but unlike other tapas places, it has tables with chairs so you can sit down."

El Xampanyet

Bar · Sant Pere

"This little tapas place in the Born neighborhood is always crowded, so you have to eat standing up (there’s a little table at the far end, but it’s always taken). To accompany the tapas, they offer a very nice and inexpensive kind of “champagne” (it’s really white wine with sparkling water)."

Andreu

Ham shop · les Corts

"The bar of this very small ham and cheese shop is a nice place to stop by after work or meetings to have some of their lovely baguettes of jamĂłn de bellota. The mountains of freshly cut Spanish ham are about as close as it gets to heaven for a jamĂłn lover."

La Taverna del ClĂ­nic

Mediterranean restaurant · l'Antiga Esquerra de l'Eixample

"The tapas at Taverna de Clínic are just so, so good. Classic, straightforward, and not too expensive—it's basically a home run."

El Quim de la BoquerĂ­a

Tapas restaurant · el Raval

"In 1987, Quim Márquez set up his tapas shop at La Boqueria, Barcelona's famed food market. His space was a three meter-long counter with five stools. El Quim's following grew exponentially in the next decade—and in 2000, it moved to a 16 meter-long counter with 18 stools. Absolutely stop here for an egg breakfast (with ham or foie gras, mushrooms, prawns, squid, etc.) before perusing La Boqueria. As super foodie Phil Rosenthal, creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, says, it's the kid of meal that will call you back to Barcelona."

Coure

Restaurant · Sant Gervasi - Galvany

"The exterior of Albert Ventura's fine dining establishment is unassuming—right off the Diagonal Avenue, a few blocks from Plaça de Frances Macià, the facade is simple and reserved, which actually matches the restrained, bare-bones décor inside. The formal dining room here is actually downstairs—there, you'll find a pre-fixe menu of small, gorgeously plated takes on traditional Catalan dishes. While the dining room is great for large parties or special occasions, we actually prefer to be seated at Ventura's more casual tapas bar upstairs. There, you can chit-chat with the chef about each dish, and order from an a la carte menu that, if a bit more casual, is just as elegantly considered as what you'll find downstairs. Either dining area is great for a more dressed-up lunch option."

Bar Restaurante Pinotxo

Restaurant · Sant Antoni

"Pinotxo Bar is one of a few eateries in the always-busy boquería, and depending on who you speak to, it's considered to be one of, if not the, best tapas spots in the city. The place is run by local celebrity Juanito Bayen, a charismatic guy who's never seen without a service-like vest and bowtie. There's no formal menu, so you'll order via a back-and-forth with Juanito to arrive on a few dishes—it can be a little confusing, but trust us, whatever arrives is guaranteed to be delicious. Wash it all down with fresh cava, which is always on ice and within arm's reach. Unfortunately, word's out about this place—it's best to arrive early and expect a wait if you want a seat at the small, 14-seat bar."

RĂ­as de Galicia

Seafood restaurant · el Poble Sec

"Like many of Barcelona's fine dining establishments, RĂ­as de Galicia is divided into two sections: A more casual tapas bar on the top floor, and a more formal, white tablecloth situation downstairs. The menu is casually organized around seafood dishes from Galicia, in the northern part of Spain. Order from the tapas menu upstairs, or choose between a la carte and pre-fixe downstairs. "

Petit Comitè

Catalonian restaurant · la Dreta de l'Eixample

"Chef Nandu Jubany is best known for Can Jubany, the fine-dining restaurant he and his wife started out of a country house an hour outside the city back in 1995. In the last few years, he's come on as the "gastronomic advisor" at Hotel Majestic; their main restaurant, Petit Comitè, offers a great taste of what Jubany can do without the drive. Expect traditional Catalan food in a formal, white-tablecloth kind of setting that's perfect for a special night, like a birthday or an anniversary. "

Xemei

Venetian restaurant · el Poble Sec

"Almost as soon as Venetian ex-pats Stefano and Max Colombo (who also happen to be twin brothers) got a taste of Barcelona's boisterous nightlife, they were hooked on the city. Their cozy Italian spot, Xemei—named for the Venetian word for twins—is widely thought of as the best place for Italian food in the city, with gregarious Stefano handling front-of-house and the organic wine program, and Max expertly leading the kitchen. The restaurant was actually unlicensed when it first opened, and though the paperwork is legit at this point, the interior is reminiscent of its underground roots—the itty-bitty space, cluttered with worn, mismatched furniture is centered around a big central bar that opens into the kitchen, and where Max presents the food before it's brought to each table. Not unlike local cuisine, Venetian dishes center around seafood, so regulars here rave about anything that combines pasta and fish—although it's hard to imagine being disappointed by anything on their daily-rotating menu."

Baluard Barceloneta

Bakery · la Barceloneta

"You might smell Forn Baluard before you see it—the sour smell of the bread (all of which is made from homemade sourdough starters) is known to waft through the neighborhood. The bakery itself is run by Anna Bellsolà, a fourth generation baker who has become famous for her airy, just-chewy-enough baguettes and Italian loaves. One of the best things about the place is its exceptionally local feel; bread is blessedly inexpensive and you're likely to wait in line next to hungry kids and elderly shoppers alike. There's a glass partition separating the customers from the back-of-house, so you can see the bakers working, moving loaves in and out of the wood-fired stone oven."

Vila Viniteca

Wine store · Sant Pere

"A major Spanish wine distributor, Vila Viniteca opened in 1932 and is now a third generation family-run business. For a really good selection of both local and international wines, head to their shop on Agullers. And, FYI, if you're looking to pick up food as well, Vila Viniteca's gourmet grocery store, which stocks small bites, cheeses, and cooked meats, is conveniently located next door. (Also to note: Vilia Vinetca has another, smaller wine outpost in the shopping mall, L'illa Diagonal.)"

Satan's Coffee Corner

Cafe · Barri Gotic

"Besides the rad name, Satan's is known for its coffee aficionado-worthy blends, thanks to the genius of master barista, Marcos Bartolomé, who comes from a line of coffee makers. Satan's has a standalone café in the Gothic Quarter and another location at the Casa Bonay hotel."