Along with world-renowned art and architecture, beach and mountain landscapes, a rich past and promising future, Barcelona offers delicious food to suit its diverse ambiance. It’s no wonder the Catalan capital is recognized as one of Europe’s top culinary destinations. Enjoy local delicacies such as fresh-caught seafood, famous cured meats, paellas and delectable Mediterranean dishes at one of these excellent restaurants.
For a unique dining experience in a Barcelona restaurant, look no further than Torre de Alta Mar, the restaurant that crowns the cable car tower in the old port. Like many of the city’s landmarks, such as the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, Plaça d’Espanya, and van der Rohe Pavilion, the Port Vell Aerial Tramway was constructed to celebrate the 1929 Universal Expedition. However, the project was such a massive undertaking that it wasn’t opened until 1931.
(photo credit: Torre de Alta Mar Restaurant)
Today, visitors can experience heart-fluttering views from the Transbordador cable car linking Port Vell and Montjuic. After a round-trip journey, reward yourself for your bravery with a meal at Torre de Alta Mar. The tables are placed all around the restaurant, offering stunning 360-degree views of the city to compliment the delectable cuisine.
Poblenou
You should definitely check out Barcelona’s excellent design museum and then grab lunch at their (surprisingly exquisite) cafè. Museu Disseny is one of the city’s hidden gems, with a four-floor exhibition on the history of various styles of design. The museum covers everything from iconic typography to ornate Victorian dresses, stunning pottery to groundbreaking technology, quirky consumer goods to emblematic home furnishings… Plus there’s an expansive design library full of fascinating resources.
(photo credit: estiluz.com)
The cafeteria features a wide variety of food from locally sourced snacks to a delicious lunch menu. The comfortable couches and option of exterior seating make for a quintessential Spanish experience that’s laid back and relaxed. This is a great spot in Barcelona to grab a bite with friends or linger over coffee to discuss the museum’s collection.
Zona Alta
Mirablau offers a down-to-earth dining experience over the whole of Barcelona. Getting there requires an uphill walk or winding drive through the quiet hills of Barcelona’s most upscale residential area. If you arrive just before sunset, you can watch the lights of the city flicker on below a blazing sky. As locals chat in Catalan at surrounding tables, enjoy homemade tapas or simply sit back with a glass of Catalan wine and some olives. Bon profit!
Eixample
For modern meets Modernisme, visit the rooftop deck of Hotel Condes for breathtaking views of La Pedrera and the Sagrada Familia. These Gaudi designed masterpieces are icons of the architectural movement that sprung up in turn-of-the-century Barcelona and greatly influenced the city’s artful, bohemian vibe. With a relaxed atmosphere, live DJ, and gorgeous surroundings, Alaire offers an insuperable venue in which to pass the evening.
Montjuic
A table by Restaurant Òleum’s panoramic windows offers a stunning vista over Plaça d’Espanya and the Sant Antoni foodies´district of Barcelona. In the former throne room of Palau Nacional (now home to Barcelona’s largest art museum), you can overlook the sunny slopes of Montjuic, sip Catalan wine, and discuss the region’s contribution to European art. It’s also the perfect spot to engage in a Catalan tradition: the three-course lunch. The large and luxurious meal is healthier than indulging in a sizable dinner, and it’s a better value for the money.
These selections combine the best of Barcelona’s sightseeing with its remarkable culinary offerings. For more opportunities to experience Barcelona’s art and culture, check out City Pass Project’s Guide to the Barcelona Card. This travel hack is the best way to visit the most iconic museums and attractions – while saving time and money. Invest in Barcelona’s city pass so that you can treat yourself to the best restaurants.
As well, if you are interested in discovering the best of Barcelona gastronomic scene, we recommend you taking a look at our food tour experiences in Barcelona, whether you are looking to immerse yourself into authentic Catalan gastronomy, taking a stroll through the quintessential Barcelona Bodegas or joining a unique wine tasting stroll, we promise lots of fun, tasty foods and drinks and memorable time!
