In a privileged position on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula and the exquisite shores of the Mediterranean (in the very north of the Spanish coast), Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain (in both size and population). Way more than just a single city, Barcelona is a metropolis – one that’s amazing in its assemblage of multi-faceted and diverse areas. After an extreme makeover that’s lasted more than two decades, Barcelona has transformed itself into one of the most dynamic and stylish cities in the world. Those who visit it and are unfamiliar with its history, may be surprised to learn that such a modern and cosmopolitan area even preserves its historic center almost intact.
For all you foodies out there, Barcelona is a powerhouse of culinary fares that draws foodies from the States, Japan and Australia to check out what’s cookin. There has been a rash of new and amazing dining options, among them are those we’ve listed below. So, no matter what your budget or belly size, you’re sure to find something to suit your craving – everything from tiny tapas to gargantuan feasts. Also, while you’re here – make sure you check out at least one of the many Museos de Jamon (Ham museums). Yes, its true: a museum dedicated to the different types of Ham found in Spain.
Breakfast (desayuno) in Barcelona is usually a no-nonsense affair, lunch (comida) on the other hand – is the the main meal of the day. And, no local would ever even contemplate dinner (sopar/cena) before 9 p.m.. That said, though restaurants tend to say open pretty late (til’ 1 a.m. or so), keep in mind that most kitchens close by 11:30 p.m. For those with an early appetite – don’t panic! If your gastric juices are flowing and you simply can’t hold out until then, you can easily track down something to snack on outside these times.
As most metropolitan cities, Barcelona is bursting at the seams – with pubs, feverish dance clubs, hedonistic gay bars, and a number of jazz and rock venues (with salsa and flamenco never too far away). For those interested in checking out the nightlife scene, you’ll be glad to know that there are five area options in Barcelona:
El Ensanche – Three completely different ambiances in this modernist part of the city. Here you’ll find locals and tourists checking out the gorgeous architecture and the hottest nightspots.
Gracia – This is where most locals are concentrated, like Plaza Rius I Taulet and Plaza del Sol. Everyone can find something to do in this part of the city – just make sure you’ve got your camera and euros in hand.
La Barceloneta – Back in the day, this was a district of fisherman; today, this area has grown to an impressive infrastructure of modern gastronomy. Bring your appetite.
Santolo – San Gervasi – In this part of the city, you’ll discover the highest concentration of young and fashionable locals (especially where the streets of S Santalo and Mariano Cubi cross). They fill the bars (be sure to check out the #1 cocktail, Mr. JJ – a concoction of Jameson, lime juice and vanilla sugar) for good music, good drinks and good fun! And, at Plaza Francesca Macia is where you’ll meet the cream of the crop of Barcelona’s night life.
Las Ramblas – Last but not least, the best known landmark of Barcelona. Strolling down La Rambla (at any hour of the day) you’ll find everything from street performers to outdoor concerts and some of the trendiest bars and restaurants.
Now, what are you waiting for – check out our journeyPod picks and be on your way!
El Bulli – Restaurant Magazine voted this jewel the “Best Restaurant in the World” (April ‘06). And, journeyPod can see why! Located on Costa Brava, 2 hours north of Barcelona, the restaurant is so worth the drive. Matthew Jukes, author of the Wine List of 2003, praises El Bulli for being a “Culinary Nirvana”. Chef Ferran Adria startles and surprises the palate with an unusual menu – choices ranging from butter ravioli wrapped in a gelatin of marine water to peach dipped in liquid hydrogen. His culinary combinations might seem odd but he is commonly regarded as one of the greatest chefs in the world. El Bulli has three prestigious Michelin stars and the waiting list for a table can take up to a year. So, book ahead and then go ahead and tell all your friends that you’ve eaten at the Best Restaurant in the World!
Bestial – Fashion-meets-food in this chic restaurant/bar establishment. A multi-level space with a beautiful waterfront terrace, folks here can relax at their tables, sip fine cocktails and taste delicious Italian-Catalan dishes. Local DJ’s spin ambient sounds to the succulent tastes of Bestial.
Shoko – This Japanese/Mediterranean restaurant fuses Asian and Spanish cuisine- sushi, tapas, steak and seafood – with smooth trance sounds. Guests relax on the terrace as they gaze into the endless sea, while Oriental dance and martial arts demonstrations entertain guests nightly. The venue also morphs into a club at the sound of a gong featuring house and soul. And here’s a tip: try the artichoke and codfish risotto with a glass of the finest white wine.
Tapioles 53 – This relaxing, intimate and friendly venue is a favorite spot among locals. Guest sip sangria at wooden tables and enjoy wild mushrooms picked daily, along with sea salt gathered from natural salt pans in Greece. The best part of this place though is that there is no set menu – Chef Sarah Stothart will greet you personally and tell you what the specials are and how exactly she will prepare them. But, to receive this type of VIP treatment – make sure you have a reservation before stopping by. Tapioles 53 is a true Barcelonian treat!
Mam i Teca – The name comes from an old Catalan expression meaning “food and drink”- which this restaurant has mastered year after year. Mam I Teca is a true tapas eatery that serves only the freshest small plates. For those of you who have traveled to Barcelona – these are not the tapas you see sitting in the window all day. Whether you desire anchovies, cured meats, or feel adventurous and want to try the daily specials such as pork confit and asparagus with shrimp – you simply can not go wrong with any dish here.
La Paloma – Despite the neighbourhood’s efforts to silence it, La Paloma recently celebrated its 100th birthday. And talk about a transformation. The red velvet-lined foyer reveals a lavishly restored belle epoque theatre and dancehall complete with shimmering chandeliers and plush balconies. Though it’s a strange spectacle for those who arrive early – Grandma and Grandpa in full evening wear still foxtrotting after the ballroom sessions finish and the house and broken beats begin at 2:30 a.m. On Thursday nights, the Bongo Lounge DJs mix funk and Latin rhythms with psychedelic lights and live jazz, while Vegas-style go-go dancers compete for attention. No matter what – this is a great place to end the night off right!
Razzmatazz – If you have ever tried to find the right music to appease all the very different interests of your friends, then this place is your savior! Razzmatazz is the place to be – and five thousand clubbers can not be wrong. The mother off all warehouse super-clubs (not to mention, the best live venue in all of the city), Razzmatazz caters to every clubbers’ need – including its choice of Rock, Pop, Indie vibe and House in the different rooms. One of Barcelona’s most popular spots, doors here open at 1 am. (and the place now offers clubbers the chance to take in all of its five spaces for a single admission price.). So, whether you’re a goth, punk, mod, technophile or electrotrash, young Catalans (and tourists) from Badalona and beyond trek here to dance until they drop. This is a place Jarvis Cocker, Miss Kittin and Dave Clark, as well as bands from Air to Blur, call home when they visit the city.
CDLC Barcelona – This exclusive club (aka – Carpe Diem Lounge Club) is the darling of of the Barca football team (it’s owned by the wife of ex-Barca man Patrick Kluivert) and other celebs. The hub to the fashion crowd of Barcelona, CDLC works hard to be the most exclusive club on the nightlife circuit – even going so far as to refuse entry to its own invited VIPs. But hey! If Rod Stewart got in, you shouldn’t have a problem either! Once you embark inside this hot spot, you’ll find a space to suit any one of your moods – from the swanky bed-sized sofas, to the fast-moving dance floor and beachfront terrace. Resident DJ Anne-Miek and other Int’l guests play soulful, vocal house.
Shout out to Maria Luisa for her expertise!
Written by journeypod.com – your guide to luxury travel around the world. We give you VIP access to the hippest hotels, the hottest nightlife, and the coolest restaurants. It’s the insiders guide to luxury and vip access around the world.
2 responses so far ↓
1 Barcelona | ExplorerPod // Nov 1, 2007 at 11:33 pm
[...] on one of our favorite cities in the world, we have a few tips to pass along about Spain & Barcelona in [...]
2 jose23 // Sep 12, 2008 at 12:36 pm
If you’re visiting Barcelona, I recomend you this discount card for save money and enjoy great bargains and special offers
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