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Barcelona Food Guide: my favorite eats, hidden spots & boutique stay
A personal taste of Barcelona, from tapas bars to a charming hotel stay.
If you ever ask me what I think about Barcelona, it reminds me of Los Angeles. A few days ago on Instagram, I mentioned how each of us has a personal impression of this city.
Some people fall in love with Barcelona for its architecture and historical places. Others connect with it, or don’t, through the food, the sea air, or the laid-back rhythm of life. But one thing is certain: you need to visit at least once to understand how you feel about it.
For me, it has that same kind of creative, warm energy I associate with Los Angeles. Every neighborhood feels like a different world. In each one, you might discover something that makes you fall in love, or simply see it differently. What matters most is knowing how and where you want to spend your time here.
Before my trip, I asked friends about neighborhoods, places to eat, and things to see. I also heard a lot of mixed opinions about the city. But sometimes, you just need to check things for yourself — and that’s exactly what I did.
I had a fantastic time in Barcelona. I tried new things, visited wineries in famous Spanish regions, explored Girona, and now it's time to share everything with you.
Hotel Casa Sagnier
Historic elegance, perfect location, and peaceful nights in the heart of Eixample
I chose to stay in Hotel Casa Sagnier for two reasons: its beautiful architecture and its perfect location in the heart of Eixample.
The hotel sits right on Rambla de Catalunya, a lovely boulevard lined with boutique shops, charming cafés, and busy restaurants. Just a few steps from the hotel, you’ll find everything from local concept stores to cozy wine bars.
And if you walk five minutes down the street, you’ll reach Passeig de Gràcia, the elegant avenue famous for its luxury boutiques, Gaudí buildings, and tourist buses.
The hotel is named after modernist architect Enric Sagnier, who lived and worked in this building. Now, it retains its historic character while offering a serene and stylish atmosphere
My room was located on the second floor, featuring a small balcony that overlooked the street. Despite facing the road, the room was remarkably peaceful in the evening. So it’s possible enjoy the energy of the city without the noise.
The interior is modern, with soft colors, comfortable bedding, and wooden accents. The ground floor includes a reception area, a cozy lounge space, and a restaurant with a bar.
The staff is attentive, btw. Everyone I met was genuinely kind, welcoming, and always happy to offer recommendations and give an umbrella if needed.
💡 Why Eixample
Eixample is a district known for its grid layout, wide streets, and gorgeous modernist buildings. Compared to the busy Gothic Quarter, the Eixample feels more balanced — stylish, walkable, and locally friendly.
It's also home to many of the city's best restaurants, boutiques, and lesser-known corners that make you feel like a part of real Barcelona.
From Casa Sagnier, it’s easy to reach many places:
Casa Batlló – 6 min walk
La Pedrera (Casa Milà) – 4 min walk
Plaça Catalunya – about 12 min
Gothic Quarter – 20 min if you’re in the mood for a longer walk
La Papa Barcelona
Fresh plates, specialty coffee, and modern vibes
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to start your day, La Papa is a perfect option. I came here for a late breakfast, and this was my first stop in Barcelona.
The interior has a clean, modern feel with soft earth tones, natural textures, and a calm, airy layout. The vibe is calm and bright, just right for a slow Barcelona morning.
This vegetarian brunch café offers homemade, fresh daytime food with a focus on quality and comfort. The menu also features colorful salads, bowls, and house-made treats, alongside excellent specialty coffee and cold-pressed juices.
I ordered an avocado toast, a mushroom toast, pancakes, and cocoa. The toasts were smooth, crispy, and just right. At the same time, the pancakes were fluffy and topped with green peas and eggs — a perfect blend of savory and soft. Yummy!
They don’t take reservations, so expect a short line on weekends, but it moves quickly, and the wait is part of the experience.
La Papa has two locations in the Eixample.
Open: |
Tapas 2254
Creative small plates with Italian, French, and Catalan soul
Barcelona is full of tapas bars. Cozy spots where you can share small plates, sip something refreshing, and enjoy the rhythm of the evening.
Like most tapas bars, it’s casual and affordably priced, which is exactly why Tapas 2254 is always buzzing after sunset.
💡 Tapas. What is that?
Tapas are small plates of food that are typically shared. They can be anything from patatas bravas to seared meat or mini portions of anything. The idea is simple: order a few dishes, share with friends, and enjoy your drink in between.
What makes this bar special is its playful, international take on classic tapas. The name 2254 comes from the chef's roots: 22 for Italy, 5 for France, and 4 for Catalonia. These influences are all reflected on the menu in creative and flavorful ways.
When I visited it with friends, we ordered roast beef tonnato, tuna tataki, and a plate of olives, all nicely served and easy to share. We paired everything with glasses of sangria, and it was a fun experience.
The space itself is warm and rustic, perfect for a time in good company.
Reservation via website
Open: |
Carnal Steak House
Steak, fire, and a green jungle
Some places stay with you, not just because of the food, but because of the way they make you feel. Carnal is exactly that place. I was here twice during my stay in Barcelona, and each time it was great.
The space is like a jungle. Lush greenery, palm leaves, wood furniture, soft lighting, and cozy areas with swings, perfect for couples or quiet conversations. There's something deeply atmospheric about it - a mix of elegance, vintage charm, and contemporary edge, with a touch of the wild.
Carnal is a wood-fired grill restaurant that specializes in dry-aged meats, led by Joaquín Ignacio Sánchez, a Uruguayan-born chef trained at the Basque Culinary Center, with culinary experience across Uruguay, Peru, Spain, and Catalonia.
One of the most unique touches here is what you do with the meat. When you order a meat dish (as a main course), you will also receive a small stone heated over fire. So you need to cook the meat yourself at the table, exactly how you prefer it.
I tried a few options from the menu:
Ox tartare with confit yolk
Red tuna with wakame, ponzu, and edamame
Croquetas with Black Angus cheeks
Aged beef tenderloin and Argentinian top loin, with sweet yams on the side
Desserts were more what I expected. The first time, I tried the Sicilian pistachio cheesecake. It officially became my favorite. During the second visit I ate a tres leches, and it was unbelievably light and delicious.
If you’re in Barcelona and love good meat, Carnal is worth a visit. From the atmosphere to the food and service, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression.
Reservation via website
Tropico Brunch
Tropical mood, and bold flavors
If you're looking for something colorful, relaxing, and hearty, head to Tropico.
This brunch café feels like a tropical hideaway. The warm earth tones, leafy plants, and natural textures create an atmosphere that's both relaxed and full of energy, like a brunch spot you'd find in Tulum or Bali.
Tropico serves tropical-inspired daytime food, offering a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their menu features egg dishes, smoothies, savory & sweet bowls, and desserts with tropical touches, including mango, passion fruit, coconut, and exotic spices.
The restaurant's chef, Felipe Terraza, brings creativity and global inspiration to every plate.
One thing to note: the portions here are large. It isn't the kind of place where you leave still thinking about lunch. I ordered the eggs Benedict with pastrami, accompanied by herbed potatoes and salad with greens and pickled radishes.
Also, I shared a Bombanana pancake (with my hubby), topped with banana, chocolate, and caramel.
It's an excellent spot for a long brunch with friends, a slow morning with great coffee drinks.
Arko sushi
Minimalist elegance and eclectic Japanese flavors
When you step into Arko, the world outside feels quieter. The interior is minimalist and atmospheric. At first glance, it's all simplicity, but then you notice small things: but then you start to notice the details: a blooming sakura tree, a small aquarium by the entrance, and gentle arched shapes in the walls that soften the space.
Chef Alan Santoro is behind what he calls eclectic Japanese cuisine, blending Japanese techniques with global influences, seasonal local ingredients, and his creative touch. The result is a menu that feels fresh, personal, and beautifully restrained.
Alongside sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, you’ll also find a refined oyster selection, delicate starters, and warm plates with unexpected flavor combinations. Every dish feels intentional and tastes just as good as it looks.
If you're dreaming about quality sushi in the center of Barcelona, Arko is one of the best places to go.
Reservation via website
The Orient express cocktail bars
Two bars. One street. One unforgettable train-inspired experience
If you're in the mood for cocktails with a touch of storytelling, head to Carrer d'Urgell, where two themed bars bring the spirit of the Orient Express to life, each in its creative way.
El Vagón (Orient Express) This bar looks like a luxurious train carriage. Inside, you’ll find plush seats, elegant details, and virtual windows that take you on a dreamlike visual journey from Paris to Istanbul. It’s immersive, romantic, and ideal for classic cocktail lovers. | Steam City (Orient Express) This is where I went, and it was one of the most fun bar experiences I’ve had in Barcelona. At Steam City, the entire bar is built around a long central counter, and right on top of it runs a miniature train. When you order a cocktail, the train rolls down the track and stops right in front of your seat with your drink. |
The fun starts when you sit down. You will have a passport, where you mark your preferred spirit. The bartenders then create a personalized cocktail tailored to your preferences. Your drink arrives with the passport, so you instantly know it’s yours.
You can also play a short game on the screen in front of you to help decide what to order. All the cocktails are inspired by real historical characters from European history, from actresses to detectives to famous thieves. It’s clever, engaging, and just fun to read through while you sip.
The atmosphere is whimsical, a little mysterious, and full of charming details, accompanied by great music and friendly staff.
No reservations here! Just come to the door and wait to be seated. It’s a popular spot, but worth it.
📍El Vagón - Urgell 115 | Steam sity open: |
Oria by Martin Berasetagui
Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Eixample
Located in the lobby of the Monument Hotel, Oria is a restaurant that blends Mediterranean inspiration with Basque soul, under the direction of Martín Berasategui, one of Spain's most celebrated chefs, with multiple Michelin stars to his name.
The restaurant received its Michelin star in 2018, and today holds one for its consistently high-quality, refined cooking.
The space is minimalist and elegant. Natural light fills the room, and the colorful velvet chairs bring warmth and contrast, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
The cuisine reflects Berasategui's philosophy - precise technique, seasonal ingredients, and a deep respect for flavor. Each dish arrives as a small work of art, carefully composed with color, texture, and balance in mind.
The restaurant offers three tasting menus, from a shorter, more casual option to a full gastronomic experience
Executive Menu – 70€
À la Carte Menu – 85€
Itsasmendi Menu – 145€ (whole experience with more courses and signature dishes)
And if you're lucky, chef Martín Berasategui himself might stop by your table at the end of the dinner, say hello, and ask how you enjoyed the experience. It's a small gesture, but one that makes the evening feel even more personal and special.
Whether it's a relaxed lunch or a special dinner, Oria delivers a calm and memorable experience.
Reservation via website
Open: |
A few more places to visit in Barcelona
the Llama, la Balabusta, Terazza Martinez
The Llama
A great spot for brunch in the Sarrià neighborhood. Quiet and full of local charm. It’s worth combining with a walk through Jardins de Vil·la Amèlia, a visit to the Monastery of Pedralbes, or simply exploring the peaceful streets with no crowds in sight.
Instagram
La Balabusta
The restaurant in the Eixample serves Israeli–Mediterranean cuisine. It’s cozy and full of heart, with dishes from creamy hummus to slow-cooked lamb that melts in your mouth.
Instagram | website
Terraza Martinez
Set on the hillside of Montjuïc Park, this restaurant is a perfect stop in the middle of exploring. You can walk through the gardens, visit Castell de Montjuïc or the Miró Foundation, and then stop here for paella, cava, and views of the harbor.
Instagram | website
Café de l'Arquitecte, Boldu, Pastelería Faixat
Café de l'Arquitecte
In the morning, it’s a quiet place for coffee and breakfast. By evening, the space transforms into a Restaurant and a bar for a relaxed night out, complete with wine, cocktails, and tapas.
Instagram
Barcelona gave me the kind of slow, joyful moments I’ll remember — a magic of old streets, and new flavors. From cozy neighborhood cafés to Michelin-starred dinners, every stop told its own story, and I’m so happy I got to taste it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, I hope this guide provides you with a few ideas.
Next week, I’ll share the second part of this Spanish adventure: the wineries that made me fall in love with wine all over again.
Stay tuned 🍷
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