Best restaurants in Barcelona (by an insider)

Barcelona's Best Restaurants 

When it comes to Barcelona's top dining spots, countless guides can be found throughout the internet. But if my friends had the chance to talk to you, they'd passionately endorse the recommendations I'm about to share.

Inside this guide, you'll uncover my personal picks for the finest restaurants in Barcelona. These choices aren't just random selections; I've personally savored every dish and soaked in the atmosphere at each one. In fact, many of these places have become my go-to haunts. So, when you're in Barcelona, don't even think about skipping these culinary gems!

For your convenience, restaurants have been organized by type: 🥘Restaurants, 🥐Breakfast & Brunch, 🍦Sweet Treats, ☕️Coffee Places and Cocktails. In the first section, to accomodate different types of budgets, I have organized restaurants based on their price range. I have decided not to do it by district since you can check the restaurant's location on the map!

Using price-ranges is alwasy treaky since price will vary depending on what and how much you eat and drink. I have tried to do my best and in some cases added 💲 pricing notes related to this but always check the menu to ensure you are not dissapointed. 

Although all restaurants serve delicious meals, I have marked my secret favorite ones with a 💎gem, and those that are a must for a first time in Barcelona with a ⭐️star. Also , look for this icon 🌇 if you want some nice views of Barcelona.

Additionally I have added one 🍽️ dish recommendation that you cannot miss. I am able to give you more recommendations if you wish but I know taste is very subjective!

If you would like specific recommendations based on particular needs or preferences, you can reach me out at my IG account. 

Latest update: March 2024

(Always work in progress ♾️)

🥘Restaurants

20-35€

La Pubilla

@skpaula

💎Tucked away in the charming Gràcia neighborhood, La Pubilla is a culinary treasure that celebrates Catalan comfort food. With a focus on traditional recipes and seasonal ingredients, the restaurant offers a taste of local flavors in a cozy and welcoming environment. 🍽️Menu of the week (during week days) 💲If you go for lunch during week days you will be able to enjoy a full menu for less than 25€. However, if you go at night or during weekends be prepared for a more expensive meal!

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Senyor Vermut

@skpaula

Senyor Vermut, located in the heart of Barcelona, is a haven for vermouth and tapas enthusiasts. The establishment boasts an impressive array of vermouth selections, paired with delectable tapas that complement the flavors. With its dedication to the art of vermouth and its convivial atmosphere, Senyor Vermut provides a unique opportunity to indulge in this quintessential Spanish ritual. ( no booking) 🍽️ Patatas bravas

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Colmado Wilmot

@skpaula

💎Colmado Wilmot in upper Diagonal captures the essence of a vibrant tapas bar. With an array of gourmet products and a menu brimming with tapas, the restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Spanish cuisine. The fusion of quality ingredients, innovative flavors, and a lively atmosphere makes Colmado Wilmot a delightful destination for those seeking an elevated tapas experience. 🍽️ tortilla de patata con chistorra!

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Bodega Amposta

@skpaula

💎Nestled near Plaza de España, Bodega Amposta offers a genuine tapas experience in a rustic setting. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff create a warm welcome for patrons eager to enjoy classic Spanish small plates and regional wines. With its authentic charm and flavors, Bodega Amposta provides a satisfying taste of traditional Spanish cuisine in the heart of Barcelona. 🍽️ Grabanzos con carabinero

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Bar del Pla

@skpaula

Bar del Pla offers a delightful journey through Spanish tapas and inventive dishes. The restaurant’s menu reflects a modern interpretation of traditional flavors, showcasing the best of Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine. With its cozy ambiance and creative culinary offerings, Bar del Pla creates an inviting space for food lovers to explore a diverse range of flavors in the heart of Barcelona.

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Bar La Principal

@skpaula

Bar La Principal exudes charm and authenticity. Serving up classic Catalan tapas with a modern twist, this cozy spot is perfect for sharing plates and soaking in the local atmosphere.

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El Xampanyet

@skpaula

Nestled in the historic El Born neighborhood, El Xampanyet offers an authentic taste of Barcelona’s tapas culture. Known for its sparkling wine, or “xampanyet,” the establishment pairs this effervescent delight with a range of traditional tapas. The rustic charm and lively atmosphere of El Xampanyet make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, providing a genuine slice of Barcelona’s culinary heritage.

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Grosso Napoletano

@skpaula

🍕 Transporting diners to the streets of Naples, Grosso Napoletano in Barcelona delivers authentic Neapolitan pizza made with passion and precision. The pizzeria’s wood-fired oven creates pizzas with a perfect chewy crust, while the selection of imported Italian ingredients ensures an authentic taste. Grosso Napoletano’s inviting atmosphere and dedication to crafting traditional pizzas make it a true Napoli experience in the heart of the city. 🍽️ Vera Carbonara Pizza

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Sartoria Panatieri

@skpaula

🍕A culinary journey to Italy awaits at Sartoria Panatieri, where modern and traditional Italian flavors come together in the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample district. This restaurant blends elegance with innovation, offering refined dishes prepared with a contemporary twist. Sartoria Panatieri’s chic ambiance and commitment to Italian culinary excellence create a sophisticated dining destination for those seeking a taste of Italy’s culinary heritage in a cosmopolitan setting.

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35€ - 50€

Jabato Taperia

@skpaula

Jabato in Gracia brings authentic Spanish cuisine to life with a playful twist. The vibrant atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients create dishes bursting with flavor. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Jabato promises a comforting and exciting dining experience.

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Restaurante Barra Alta Barcelona

@skpaula

Barra Alta Restaurante in Barcelona offers a cozy setting and modern Spanish cuisine. Their creative tapas and dishes showcase fresh ingredients and innovative flavors, resulting in an explosion of taste with every bite. Warm hospitality adds to the charm, making Barra Alta a top spot for classic Spanish flavors and contemporary culinary delights. Fish offered with its own spine

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Bambarol

@skpaula

💎Bambarol, located in the Sant Gervasi neighborhood, is a culinary haven that combines traditional Spanish flavors with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s inventive menu showcases a fusion of global influences, resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and unique. With its eclectic ambiance and innovative approach to cuisine, Bambarol offers a refreshing and exciting dining experience for those looking to explore Barcelona’s culinary diversity.

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Barraca

@skpaula

Situated in the Barceloneta neighborhood, Barraca Restaurant captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood and rice dishes. Overlooking the sea, the restaurant offers a beachside dining experience where guests can savor the flavors of the sea in a relaxed setting. 🍽️ any rice!

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Peix Vela

@skpaula

⭐️Overlooking the Mediterranean, Pez Vela offers a delightful seafood dining experience in Barcelona. The restaurant’s breezy atmosphere and beachside setting create a relaxing backdrop for savoring paella, seafood, and Mediterranean flavors. With its stunning views and maritime charm, Pez Vela is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts seeking an oceanfront culinary escapade. 🍽️Any rice but I would go with the one with butifarra.

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Terrassa Martínez

@skpaula

⭐️ 🌇 Perched atop Montjuïc hill, Terraza Martínez enchants guests with its panoramic city views and delectable Catalan cuisine. This open-air terrace immerses diners in Barcelona’s skyline while delivering a range of traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Terraza Martínez is an ideal spot to indulge in authentic flavors while basking in the beauty of the city’s landscape. 🍽️ Any rice!

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Molino de Pez

@skpaula

⭐️Just close to Gracia, Diagonal and even Paseo de Gracia , Molino de Pez stands out as a unique dining establishment. The restaurant’s charm is complemented by its piano- nights!. The combination of distinctive ambiance, music and culinary creativity makes Molino de Pez an intriguing choice for those looking to dine in a distinctive setting with a touch of history. 🍽️ Tortilla de patata (a bit diferente style) and baba for dissert 💲Depending on what you eat it can be more expensive

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Ultramarinos Marín

@skpaula

Ultra Marinos Marin, situated close to Diagonal, is a culinary gem that transports diners to a world of Mediterranean flavors. With an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant crafts incredible tapas or “raciones” that showcase the essence of Catalan and Spanish cuisine. Its dedication to quality ingredients make Ultra Marinos Marin a standout destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the region. 💲 depending on what you eat it might be more expensive

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Clara Barcelona

@skpaula

Clara Barcelona is a restaurant dedicated to bringing back the authentic flavors of Catalan cuisine. Located in the heart of the city, it combines traditional Catalan recipes with the finest market-fresh ingredients, all served with exceptional hospitality. 🍽️ meloso de ternera , huevos con gambas, vieiras 💲it can be a bit more expensive since we only had one glass of wine each and we were around 50€/each. Check also the possibility of going in the week for lunch since there’s an economic menu.

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Restaurant Mirabé

@skpaula

🌇Perched atop Tibidabo Hill, Mirabé offers stunning panoramic views of Barcelona alongside contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions, this restaurant combines exquisite flavors with a breathtaking ambiance. 🍽️ steak tartar, bacalao

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50€ - 80€

Tasca Japonesa WAKASA 3.0

@skpaula

💎Wakasa stands as a culinary haven for lovers of Japanese cuisine in Barcelona. This restaurant’s dedication to authenticity is evident in its carefully crafted sushi, sashimi, and other traditional dishes. With an elegant and tranquil atmosphere, and hosted by Japanese couple, Wakasa invites patrons to savor the delicate flavors of Japan while immersed in a serene dining setting. 🍽️ Trio de toro (tuna) 💲 Around 60€/ p.

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Dos Pebrots

@skpaula

Dos Pebrots in Raval offers a creative menu that blends tradition and experimentation. This avant-garde restaurant takes Spanish cuisine to new heights, delivering surprising and delightful flavors. With a knowledgeable staff and innovative dishes, Dos Pebrots is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and memorable dining adventure. 💲It might get more expensive depending on your choice between closed menus or not.

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Dos Palillos

@skpaula

Fusion cuisine meets avant-garde dining at Dos Palillos, located in the vibrant El Raval neighborhood. Helmed by renowned chef Albert Raurich, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an exciting blend of Spanish and Asian flavors, served tapas-style. With a sleek and contemporary setting, Dos Palillos promises an unforgettable culinary adventure in Barcelona. 💲it might get more expensive depending on what your order . Menu is more expensive

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>80€

Taberna Noroeste

@skpaula

Taberna Noroeste in Barcelona specializes in fresh seafood and maritime flavors. Their dedication to quality and authenticity shines through in every dish, offering a taste of the sea in the heart of the city. 💲They offer a closed menu of 100€.

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Disfrutar

@skpaula

Experience culinary innovation at Disfrutar, where three former El Bulli chefs delight diners with playful and inventive dishes. From liquid olives to edible balloons, every bite is a journey of surprise and delight in this Michelin-starred gem.

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🧅 Calçotada

Can Travi Nou

@skpaula

Can Travi Nou is a renowned destination for traditional Catalan cuisine, especially during calçot season. Set in a Masia, surrounded by lush gardens, this restaurant offers an authentic dining experience steeped in Catalan heritage. Guests flock here to indulge in the seasonal delicacy of calçots, grilled over an open flame and served with romesco sauce. With its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering dishes, Can Travi Nou captures the essence of Catalan gastronomy in every bite.

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Can Borrell

@skpaula

The Masia of Can Borrell, nestled in the heart of the Collserola Natural Park, is known for its authentic Catalan cuisine and rustic charm. This family-run restaurant is celebrated for its traditional calçotadas, where guests gather to enjoy the seasonal delicacy of grilled calçots served with homemade romesco sauce. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Can Borrell offers a serene setting for indulging in Catalonia's culinary delights.

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🥐Breakfast & Brunch

Auto Rosselló

@skpaula

Start your day right at Autorosello, a haven for breakfast lovers. This charming spot offers a delightful array of morning treats, from fresh pastries to hearty dishes. With a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, Autorosello invites you to savor your first meal of the day in a relaxed and inviting setting. Sundays are for Brunch! And you can also have lunch or dinner here if you wish.

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Surf House Barcelona

@skpaula

Surf House in Barceloneta is the perfect blend of coastal vibes and delicious bites. Overlooking the beach, this spot offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu that caters to all tastes. From hearty brunch classics to healthier options, Surf House has something for everyone. Enjoy your meal with a side of ocean breeze for an unbeatable brunch experience. Avocado toast

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Mantequeries Pirenaiques

@skpaula

💎 Mantequerias Pirenaicas in Sant Gervasi exudes rustic charm and culinary excellence. This hidden gem offers a breakfast that feels like a comforting hug. With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional flavors, their menu presents a delightful selection of morning indulgences. Whether you're craving sweet or savory, Mantequerias Pirenaicas promises a breakfast experience that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. Go for breakfast, brunch, some aperitivo or lunch - it will not dissapoint you! 🍽️ Tortilla de patata normal o con chorizo

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🍦Sweet Treats

DeLaCrem

@skpaula

Delacrem, in Enric Granados, offers Italian icecreams with a divine and original selection of flavors that cater to every craving. From traditional favorites to innovative concoctions, Delacrem’s dedication to taste and texture shines through in every scoop. There’s always queue but it usually moves fast. 🍽️ pistachio icecream , afogatto

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Gocce di latte

@skpaula

⭐️Indulge your sweet tooth at Gocce di Latte, in Born neighborhood. Enjoy creamy delights with the utmost precision, resulting in flavors that transport you straight to Italy. You can also enjoy brioche with icecream.

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Anita Gelato

@skpaula

Anita Gelato is all about serving up sweet sensations in every spoonful. This charming gelateria whips up a variety of delectable flavors that capture the essence of Italy’s gelato culture.

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Gelateria Da Gallo

@skpaula

Step into Gelateria da Gallo, a delightful gelato paradise in Barcelona. Don’t miss their Pistachio Gelato; it’s creamy and nutty, a true masterpiece. For a refreshing twist, try their Lemon Sorbet—it’s like a burst of sunshine in your mouth! 🍽️ brioche with icecream

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Pastisseria Takashi Ochiai

@skpaula

💎Patisserie serving Japanese rice flour mochis, gingerbread & matcha green tea-flavored cakes and more. Their key ingredient is definitely te matcha. All is incredibly good! 🍽️mochis and croissant-matcha

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Morreig

@skpaula

💎Nestled in Barcelona’s Gracia district, Morreig offers a delightful blend of artisanal pastries and gelato. This charming spot on Calle Verdi invites you to savor their specialty, the ice cream-filled brioche, along with a tempting selection of other sweet creations. 🍽️ icecream and kouign-amann 🥐

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JonCake

@skpaula

JonCake, created by chef and pastry maker Jon García (previous experience in El Celler de Can Roca, La Tasquería, and Lera). His focus is on daily handcrafted cheesecake with the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Try the original one or go for a mix between cheese and other flavors like chocolate or pistachio. 🍽️Any piece of cheese cake

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Sil's Cakes American Pastry

@skpaula

Sil’s Cake American Pastry brings a slice of America to Barcelona. If you’re craving a sweat treat in American style, this is the place to be. Their Red Velvet Cake is simply divine, and for a truly indulgent treat, go for the New York Cheesecake. Pair it with a classic Americano coffee for the perfect combo. 🍽️ Any cookie 🍪

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☕️Coffee Places

Grooffee

@skpaula

💎Located in Sant Gervasi, Grooffee is a hip coffee shop that serves up artisanal coffee and delectable baked goods. Grooffee attracts locals and visitors alike with its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to quality. Whether you're looking for a morning pick-me-up or a cozy spot to unwind with friends, Grooffee has you covered.

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Syra Coffee - Gràcia

@skpaula

Located in different places all around Barcelona, Syra is a specialty coffee places which exudes warmth and charm. From expertly brewed coffee to mouthwatering cookies, Syra can be your place to grab and go to continue your tourism around the city.

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Cocktails

Dr Stravinsky

@skpaula

💎Tucked away in the heart of Barcelona’s Born neighborhood , Dr. Stravinsky is a hidden gem known for its inventive cocktails and lively atmosphere.

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Paradiso

@skpaula

Located in El Born, Paradiso is a speakeasy-style bar concealed behind a refrigerator door inside a pastrami shop. It’s renowned for its creative cocktails , pastrami sandwiches and unique, clandestine setting. However, be prepare to queue!

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La Javanesa

@skpaula

La Javanesa, a Barcelona cocktail bar in Les Corta, was co-founded by David Carabén and his wife Flora Saura. The bar offers a mix of original and curated cocktails, with David's discoveries from NYC's Suffolk Arms and Peruvian roots. 🍽️The real magic is having the expert bartender craft your cocktail experience based on your likes.

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Mariposa Negra Cocktail Bar - Cocteleria artesana

@skpaula

Mariposa Negra is an establishment located in the heart of the Born neighborhood in Barcelona, where you can savor handcrafted cocktails prepared by us using artisanal ingredients. They do not only prepare cocktails , what you drink is art!

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