This week, we're taking a beach trip to Barcelona as summer draws nearer.
We love Barcelona for its art, architecture, and of course - tapas. It's a city that manages to stay young and exciting, while still upholding years of tradition.
Today, the GW team shares their restaurant recommendations for the Spanish city. Follow along for fresh seafood, traditional tapas, and Catalan cuisine.
FOR A BITE BEFORE THE BEACH
ELS PESCADOR
Els Pescadors is a fisherman's tavern adored by both locals and tourists alike.
This seafood spot located right by the beach - a great indicator for fresh fish.
Along with seafood, they also serve traditional Catalan cuisine updated daily based on what the sea and land has to offer.
PLAÇA DE PRIM, 1, SANT MARTÍ, 08005 BARCELONA, SPAIN
FOR A TRADITIONAL SEAFOOD EXPERIENCE
BOTAFUMEIRO
The team at Botafumeiro spends the early hours of each day bidding on the best fish at the Catalonia and Galicia fish markets. This traditional seafood bistro is composed of a mix of locals, movie stars, politicians, and tourists - all enjoying the best seafood that Barcelona has to offer. It's the perfect restaurant to celebrate any occasion, especially while on vacation. Laila loves the crab - don't miss it!
C/ GRAN DE GRACIA, 81, GRACIA, 08012 BARCELONA, SPAIN
FOR AN INTIMATE MICHELIN-RECOMMENDED MEAL
BERBENA
This Michelin-recommended restaurant offers only two seatings per day.
Once service begins, their doors are locked. The tiny space features an open-concept kitchen to immerse diners throughout their meal. The menu is composed of seasonal Mediterranean ingredients, with a sommelier pairing each dish perfectly with wine from various regions. If you are lucky enough to escape the waitlist, Berbena is definitely a must-visit.
CARRER DE MINERVA, 6, GRÂCIA, 08006 BARCELONA, SPAIN
FOR THE BEST TAPAS AND BEER
LA PLATA
A tiny restaurant with no menu, Bar La Plata serves only four dishes. Since 1945, customers have ordered signature, simple tapas over their marble counter: crispy fried sardines ("pescaditos"), buttifarra sausage, a salad of tomato wedges and raw onions, and anchovies and olives.
In the summer, patrons flood out into the pedestrian-only street Carrer de la Merce.
Red, white, and rosé are served from straight from the barrel in small chupito glasses, but there's nothing we love more with anchovies than an ice cold beer.
CARRER DE LA MERCE, 28, CIUTAT VELLA, 08002 BARCELONA, SPAIN
FOR A FAMILY-RUN COMFORT MEAL
SENSE PRESSA
Chef José Luis opened Sense Pressa in 2005 together with his son Victor. The duo still runs this eight-table restaurant with as much attention to detail and hands-on service as they did from 20 years ago. They serve traditional Catalan food in their small but cozy space. The restaurant's name translates to "no rush" - encouraging guests to take their time dining, just as you would at home.
CI DE CORSEGA, 256, L'EIXAMPLE, 08008 BARCELONA, SPAIN
