Restaurant in barcelona: The 35 Best Restaurants in Barcelona, According to a Local Expert

Family Friendly: Restaurants in Barcelona

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Barcelona’s Trendiest and Tastiest Family-Friendly Restaurants and Diners

Sam Mednick

Barcelona Local Expert

Barcelona’s restaurant scene is one of a kind. It’s a city with something for everyone including high-end tapas restaurants, greasy spoon joints and a host of ‘diner-style’ locales as well as tasty bistros. Most restaurants these days have a wide selection of food including vegetarian options and ‘child-friendly’ dishes for the less adventurous folk. The city’s Old Town (Ciutat Vella) has an overwhelming number of restaurants per capita. You can walk through the Gothic Quarter and ‘menu shop’ or go to Plaza Reial right off La Rambla and choose from a series of gorgeous terraces.

Family-friendly in Barcelona pertains to a vast number of restaurants as most places welcome children and have an unassuming vibe. You don’t have to dress up or leave the kids at home to dine at the majority of the city’s establishments and even places serving nouvelle tapas usually have great options for kids or those who want to stick to the basics.

As Spanish and Catalan food is grounded in meat, rice, salad and potatoes, no matter where you go there’s always something homey and great for all family members. A few notable areas of the city to find great family-friendly places to eat are in Ciutat Vella as well as Gracia.



Photo courtesy of Federal Cafe

Tucked away in the Raval, in the gardens of the Old Hospital Santa Creu, El Jardi is a quaint and very charming outdoor tapas bar and restaurant. Ideal during the spring and summer, the restaurant serves fresh salads and tapas and also features an extensive wine list. During the winter the outdoor heaters and blankets provide for a cozy and fairly warm atmosphere, while during the summer, it’s hard to find a more romantic place to dine or to have an intimate evenings amongst friends. This is a fun place to take the kids and enjoy lunch on a beautiful terrace with the family.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: A unique spot for lunch and dinner and a beautiful family setting

Sam’s expert tip: They don’t take reservations so if you’re going for lunch show up before 1:30pm if you want a table, especially during the summer

Read more about El Jardi →


A beef lover’s paradise, El Foro cooks a mean Argentinean bife de chorizo and is one of the few places in Barcelona that knows how to make a steak ‘poco hecho’ (bloody rare). This lively, airy and spacious restaurant is excellent for dates, parties or just an intimate evening out amongst friends. When it comes to lunch, they have a very affordable three-course lunch menu. Even if you’re not a carnivore, you still have options; El Foro has an extensive menu including pasta, pizza and salad dishes amongst other Argentinean specialties. Every morning El Foro also features a small breakfast menu, with fresh orange juice; the restaurant also has free wi-fi.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: The best Argentinean Steak place in the city, great for families

Sam’s expert tip: Try their Bianchi Malbec, an excellent and reasonably priced Argentinean wine.

Read more about El Foro →


A vegetarian oasis on the edge of the Raval neighborhood, Teresa Carles serves fresh vegetables and fruits, authentic salads and even brunch. This is a comfortable, relaxing, very warm and inviting place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and even takeaway. This is a large restaurant great for breakfast lunch or dinner. It’s affordable and tasty and perfect for families looking for a relaxing, tasty and vegetarian meal. The tables are large and the staff often move several together to accommodate large groups. Their menus also cater to children and those in the mood for a healthy alternative to Barcelona’s sometimes greasy tapas.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: A great vegetarian restaurant in the city center fun for families

Sam’s expert tip: Try their breakfast and brunch menu served daily from 9am-2pm.

Read more about Teresa Carles →


A trendy, young, lively and unique restaurant that specializes in Asian tapas. Mosquito has found its niche offering the most amazing Dim Sum and dumplings, you’ll actually feel like you’re in Hong Kong and China, while dipping into a wide variety of tapas amongst friends. Mosquito is a small locale in the heart of the Born, owned and run by a British native who spent years in Asia mastering the art of Asian cuisine. This place is always packed and for good reason. This is great for small families who want to experience Asian tapas in one of the city’s coolest restaurants.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: Excellent Asian tapas in the city center with an unpretentious flare

Sam’s expert tip: They have an excellent selection of local as well as international beer.

Read more about Mosquito →


Photo courtesy of Re-Pla

Excellent for tapas, wine or a cup of coffee, Re-Pla may be the more economical version of its well known sister restaurant, Pla, but it’s tapas are just as delicious and the portions fairly large (for Spanish standards). This is a lively, hip restaurant in the Born neighborhood, great for cozying up on a rainy day or having a few drinks after work or on the weekend. Re-Pla has delicious Spanish and Catalan style tapas in a rustic setting in the Born. It’s perfect for groups of friends an easy night out or a quick bite any day during the week.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: Tasty tapas in a relaxed environment in the Born

Sam’s expert tip: Try their tuna salad

Read more about Re-Pla →


Photo courtesy of Llamber

A hip, New York style gastro tapas bar in the heart of the Born neighborhood. Llamber is chic and trendy, set in a loft style setting with exposed brick and a mix of high top tables and regular seating. The restaurant prides itself on quality, fresh food from the market as well as it’s incredible wine list with a whopping 30 wines by the glass. This is a chic new place in Barcelona to dine with friends or on a date. It’s also great for family outings perhaps on a special occasion. It’s quite roomy and great for large groups.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: The perfect place for a special family occasion. Amazing food and great wine.

Sam’s expert tip: Try their salad it’s incredible and innovative

Read more about Llamber →


An excellent gastro tapas bar in the Old City right near Arc De Triomf at the edge of the Born neighborhood. Elsa y Fred sports an early 1920’s decor and provides an elegant understated vibe. It’s a great place for a morning coffee and paper, tapas lunch and delicious dinner. On Tuesday nights they have Jazz and on weekends they’re always packed for brunch. They also have a wonderful new breakfast menu with ‘American Style’ options such as omletes and pancakes depending on the day. This is a trendy, tapas restaurant/bistro in the Born and a great place for good conversation and a fun evening out.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: A trendy and tasty gastro tapas bar perfect for families

Sam’s expert tip: Be sure to reserve in advance on Tuesdays and on the weekends

Read more about Elsa Y Fred →


Photo courtesy of En Aparte

A slice of Paris in the heart of Barcelona’s Ciutate Vella, if you’re in the mood for a french cafe/bistro, this is the place to go. Run by all French staff, this rustic, quaint and incredibly personable cafe acts as a restaurant as well as a late night wine bar. It’s an ideal place to set up shop and work for the day using their free Wi-Fi while sipping on a glass of Bordeaux accompanied with a plate of Comte cheese. An affordable and tasty place for families to dine, especially during the day when the terrace has great sun.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: A relaxing, delicious French bistro in the Old City

Sam’s expert tip: Try their Comte and Ham salad

Read more about En Aparte →


Charming, quaint and one of the only restaurants in Barcelona that takes reservations on their outdoor terrace, El Salon is a always a sure bet for out-of-towners, dates and intimate evenings amongst close friends. Featuring a mix of Catalan and French cuisine, the inside of the restaurant has a classic and authentic feel while the patio nestled out back creates a friendly and warm ambiance as it sits alongside several other bars and restaurants, all situated within close proximity of each other. This is a warm and friendly place for families to eat and the terrace provides for a unique and elegant touch.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: A great place to dine on the terrace in a family-friendly and warm atmosphere

Sam’s expert tip: Try their Tuna Steak it’s amazing

Read more about El Salón →


There are few Barcelona restaurants able to beat the charm, elegance and eclectic menu found at Montiel. Hidden on one of the narrow side streets in the Born, this small, two-story restaurant has mouth watering tapas, meats, starters and above all they have an excellent selection of fresh fish daily. One of the only places in the city that has fish on Mondays (for the most part fish is not caught and sold on Sundays), this is a sure bet for dates, guests or an intimate evening out. They have a great upper area with more seating than downstairs and this is ideal for family dinners.

Recommended for Family Friendly because: Excellent food in an invitiring and very family-friendly setting in the city center

Sam’s expert tip: Try their sirloin steak and tuna tartar

Read more about Montiel →


Meet Sam Mednick

Sam’s passion for the sea and mountains makes Barcelona the optimal living destination. 

Sam’s love for traveling has taken her to Africa, the Middle East, Europe and South America. Before…  More About Sam

Moments – Restaurants In Passeig de Gracia


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Creating a buzz with Catalan cuisine at Moments


Reserve

With two Michelin stars already, Moments restaurant continues to win new awards and new devotees thanks to its creative, fresh and healthy cuisine inspired by Catalan culinary culture. Managed by chef Carme Ruscalleda and her son Raül Balam, Moments offers one of the finest gastronomic experiences in Barcelona. Having won seven Michelin stars for her restaurants in Spain and Tokyo, Ruscalleda is one of the most famous chefs in the country.

 

Decorated with the beauty of Patricia Urquiola’s exclusive designs, the golden and amber hues of the Moments dining room create a relaxing, magical atmosphere for the enjoyment of the gastronomic experience offered by a tasting menu. In addition, a window onto the kitchen provides diners with an attractive view of the culinary staff at work.

 

“The jaw is our best tool to grasp philosophical knowledge” proclaimed Salvador Dali.

 

This season, chefs Raül Balam and Carme Ruscalleda propose a fabulous menu inspired by the legendary grand dinners organized by the artist and Gala, his wife and muse, in the seventies. Moments takes you on an adventure of innovative dishes, sensual flavours, and exotic ingredients. The menu features the recipe #94: Stuffed artichokes, #11: Quail eggs with Caviar or #116 : Sorbette al vieux champagne.

Menu



We would like to encourage you to let us know in advance of any allergies, food intolerances or dietary restrictions so that we can adapt your menu accordingly and ensure that you can fully enjoy your dining experience at Moments**. We can adapt our tasting menu to vegetarians and/or vegans. Please note that we can adapt the menu up to 24 hours in advance. If you inform us of possible dietary restrictions less than 24 hours in advance, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to fully adapt the menu to these restrictions.



All-day dining restaurant

Blanc

Discover Blanc, the all-day dining restaurant in the heart of the hotel. Designed by chef Carme Ruscalleda, Blanc’s décor is as striking as its menu.



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Restaurants with a buffet in Barcelona

In some European countries there is such an option – eat as much as you can, buffet. This is the name of a restaurant or a special menu when you pay a fixed price of €8-15 and eat everything you see.

1. The first restaurant that will be discussed is

DAO KAITENSUSHI (BUFFET GIRATORIO)

Address: Passeig de Colom, 4
A visit to the original serving of Asian cuisine will surprise you with a very original serving of Asian cuisine. all dishes move on a circular conveyor, and you can pick up your favorite. The menu itself is very diverse – rice, Asian noodles, sushi, sashimi, a variety of Asian snacks, oysters, seafood, desserts, and fruits. For better digestion of everything eaten – a stack of original warm sake – a gift from the institution to each client. The price of a trip to DAO KAITENSUSHI will be only 10-15 euros. Hurry up to taste the gifts of Asian cuisine!

2.

Fresc Co is one of the most famous restaurant chains in Barcelona

Addresses: Carrer de Casp, 30 ; Ronda de la Universitat 29; Maremagnum, Centro Comercial Maremagnum, Moll d’Espanya, 5 ; Carrer del Carme, 16; Carrer de Salvador Espriu, 31 ; Carrer Gran de Gràcia, 30;
The place looked like an open-space salad bar. Many tables, colorful visitors and melodic purring of different foreign languages ​​with Asian motifs. It is known that the first restaurant of this chain opened at 1994, and now there are about 40 throughout Spain. Fresc Co’s focus is on healthy and delicious food. Here you can enjoy all kinds of salads, you will be surprised by the abundance of vegetables and snacks, as well as meat, fish and pizza on the menu. The cost of going to Fresc Co is only 12 euros . Don’t pass by!

3.

Wok Dao

Address: Carrer de Villarroel, 1

0004 to remind you that you are still in Barcelona. There are soups, all kinds of snacks, noodles and rice, sushi and rolls, salads from fresh and pickled vegetables, grilled vegetables, meat and seafood: mussels, shrimps, crabs and even fresh oysters. The price of unlimited trips to the buffet is only 10 euros! What distinguishes the restaurant is that you can order both ready-made meals and give raw food to the grill, and they will be cooked in front of you. Really save a couple of € for drinks, as they are are not included in the general check . Nice atmosphere inside and good location will please anyone!

4.

Lactuca

The very name of this restaurant already emphasizes healthy food. Manufacturers claim that fast food can be healthy, healthy, and also varied. Visitors will be pleased with the variety of dishes on offer: in the menu you will find various salads, soups, pasta to choose from, pizza and the most delicious desserts. There is also a takeaway option. Selected soft drinks, water, beer and house wine are included in the single €9 price-11 depending on the time of day and the location of the institution.

5.

La Vaca Paca

Address: Paseo de Gracia, 21

, located in the heart of Barcelona – Passage de Gracia Boulevard. A very convenient location and a trip price of only 10 euros will not leave any visitor disappointed! The quality of the food is also nice. Immediately, what catches your eye is the huge queues for food, but don’t be alarmed – they move pretty quickly. Don’t miss the opportunity to eat their signature ice cream for dessert.

1

The best restaurants in Barcelona to visit on February 14

Barcelona is not only a center of international tourism, but also a city with a unique flavor, majestic architecture and delicious cuisine. And if we are talking about food or wine, then you will definitely have something to do in the capital of Catalonia. Few cities can compete with Barcelona for the variety of gastronomic offerings. The streets of the city are literally crowded with small tapas bars and luxurious restaurants.

Spanish cuisine is very diverse and has a truly unique flavor. Among the establishments of Barcelona, ​​you can find options for every taste and budget, and the local cuisine will satisfy everyone: both an ordinary tourist and a seasoned gourmet.

Where to go in the capital of Catalonia on February 14th? Consider some of the most romantic and sophisticated restaurants.

Prices in the best restaurants in Barcelona

When planning a vacation in Barcelona, ​​it is useful to know the cost of meals in local establishments. Much depends on the status of the restaurant and its location. For example, if it is located not far from tourist attractions, then you can’t count on low prices. It is worth walking literally 10 minutes deep into the city, and you can find an institution where a standard menu will cost 15-20% less. But the views from here will be worse.

Food prices in best restaurants in Barcelona
Description Cost (per person)
Light breakfast that includes coffee with a sandwich or croissant 2-3 Euro
European continental breakfast 5-8 Euro
Lunch at a restaurant 15-25 Euro
Menu of the day 10-12 Euro

The best restaurants in Barcelona: La Fonda del Port Olimpic

First of all, let’s talk about traditional cuisine. And few places in Spain offer it with the same elegance and charm as in La Fonda. This restaurant is located in the Olympic Port and is known for its classic, minimalist style, high standards of service and unique port atmosphere. This makes it one of the best restaurants in Barcelona.

La Fonda focuses on Mediterranean cuisine. Here you can taste traditional rice dishes with seafood, grilled meats and homemade desserts. Fine wines were also included here – visitors are provided with an extensive wine list.

In addition, as for an institution of this level, the prices in La Fonda are more than affordable. For example, you can order the menu of the day here for only 12 euros. This price will include a set lunch with a salad, main course, dessert and a glass of wine (if you wish, you can replace it with beer).

The restaurant’s specialties include paella with lobster, shellfish and monkfish, seafood soup and grilled tuna.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: Torre d’Alta Mar

One of the best restaurants in Barcelona, ​​famous for its panoramic views. The peculiarity of the institution lies in its good location, because it is literally located at the junction of land and sea. In addition, the restaurant is located at an altitude of 75 meters. Previously, a cable car station functioned in this room, which explains the high location. It offers an excellent view not only of Barcelona itself, but also of the mountain and sea landscapes.

Torre d’Alta Mar has made it to the list of the best restaurants in Barcelona for a reason, as it is recommended to visit by the Ministry of Tourism and the Spanish government.

In addition to the breathtaking view, the restaurant can please guests with original cuisine. Two chefs work here at once, who try to combine traditional dishes with new technologies. The average cost of traditional dishes is about 25 euros. If we talk about the newfangled tasting menu, then you will have to pay about 100 euros for it.

Thanks to its quality service, unique location and delicious food, this establishment is recommended by the Michelin guide, further highlighting the reason for its inclusion in the list of the best restaurants in Barcelona.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: Xiringuito Escriba

The establishment is rightfully included in the list of the best restaurants in Barcelona. It was opened in 1992, quickly captivating the locals with delicious cuisine and an interior designed to the smallest detail. Today, Xiringuito Escriba is included in the list of the best restaurants in the city, which are located in the coastal line. The basis of the dishes is rice. It is cooked here in a variety of variations. But the signature dish is paella.

From the opening to this day, the quality of food and service has remained on top, which attracts more and more people, both among locals and tourists. It is better to book a table here in advance, as the place is very popular.

The menu includes traditional black rice with fish and shrimp, paella with chicken, mushrooms and asparagus. The average price for such dishes is from 20 euros. A portioned appetizer for two (consisting of 4 courses) will cost 28 euros, and a jug of sangria (1. 2 l) will cost about 25 euros.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: Mabel The Granja

If you are looking for the best restaurants in Barcelona, ​​this place is definitely not to be missed. A family restaurant where you can dine side by side with the locals. The interior is made as simple as possible, the main focus is on the menu and showcases – they are colorful and inviting here. The main rule of the owners is that food is always prepared with love, from quality ingredients, and the client is provided with the best value for money. The menu is mostly complex.

Here you can get a delicious lunch or breakfast in the best traditions of Spain for 12 euros on weekdays and 15 euros on weekends.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: the terrace of the hotel Omm

Barcelona is a city with a unique flavor. Local residents especially appreciate the rest and prefer to live in comfort. One of the features of the capital of Catalonia is the view restaurants located on the roofs of hotels. They are simply called terraces. And if we are to make a list of the best restaurants in Barcelona, ​​then we should certainly mention this institution. It combines delicious food, beautiful view, peaceful atmosphere. Here you are in the fresh air, as if hovering over the city, away from the routine and everyday experiences.

Naturally, terraces are not open all year round in Spain. The beginning of the season falls on June 1, continuing until the first cold weather.

One of the most luxurious terraces is located on the roof of the Omm Hotel, which is located not far from Gracia Boulevard. There are snow-white sofas, live music, and popular DJs perform in the evening. The average check is about 40 euros. The menu is traditional, with a predominance of light snacks and cocktails, but there are also hearty dishes. Therefore, the terrace of the Omm Hotel is also suitable for a family dinner.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: Arola

Restaurant with an unusual design, located on the second floor of the Hotel Arts. It is very popular not only because of the beautiful terrace and live music. Sergi Arola works here – a chef who managed to conquer gourmets not only in Catalonia, but throughout Spain. As a student of the legendary Pierre Gagnère, Arola creates incredibly delicious and surprisingly beautiful dishes.

Sergi Arola’s specialty is tapas, which are part of his signature menu. It contains several varieties of potato chips that can conquer you with their incredible flavor. In addition, Arola’s menu includes fragrant veal cooked on coals and baked sea bass.

But how can a Spanish restaurant not offer its guests a huge selection of wines? The wine cellar in Arola contains over 900 bottles, and among such an abundance, everyone can find something interesting.

The best restaurants in Barcelona: Passadís del Pep

Every selection of the best restaurants in Barcelona must include this restaurant. Its feature is the absolute absence of a menu. Instead, the chef surprises his customers with new dishes every day. And most often seafood is served in Passadís del Pep. You can also order meat dishes.

It is advisable to book a table in Passadís del Pep in advance, as the restaurant is very popular among the local population. Tourists are also frequent guests here.

Quirky Restaurants in Barcelona

If you are looking for the best restaurants in Barcelona and are tired of the traditional establishments, then you should definitely check out the options listed below. The capital of Catalonia has a number of restaurants and cafes that will certainly surprise you. These include:

  1. Dans le noir. A unique establishment of its kind that offers everyone to eat in total darkness. The creators of the restaurant explain this approach by urging visitors to concentrate on the taste of the dishes offered, abstracting from everything else.
  2. Espai Sucre. Unusual desserts are served here, which have a simply divine taste. For example, in this restaurant you can try black olive ice cream or goat cheese cheesecake, which is flavored with ginger. In addition to the unusual composition, these dishes are really very tasty.
  3. Cheese me. A cheese restaurant with an exclusively cheese menu. Characterized by a simply incredible selection of delicacies.
  4. El Bosc de les Fades. The restaurant is primarily interesting for its interior, which resembles a fabulous forest as much as possible. There are mushrooms, moss, caves – everything a true traveler needs. By the way, the food here is also good, so when you are in Barcelona, ​​be sure to check it out.

Cheap restaurants in the Catalan capital

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Catalan restaurants. If the budget is limited, you can choose one of the inexpensive cafes that also offer quality service and delicious food. There are plenty of such establishments in any part of the city. Most often they offer their customers American and Italian cuisine. Here you can order traditional burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.

The best restaurants in Barcelona in the budget segment include:

  1. Lactuca. A restaurant with an unobtrusive interior where you can have a bite to eat, order first and second courses. The establishment is famous for its desserts and sundaes. The food here is delicious and the service is top notch. At the same time, prices remain democratic. Lactuca is located next to the Sagrada Familia.
  2. Dao Kaitensushi. An original cafe, famous for its unusual serving. A conveyor belt runs along the tables, on which there are various dishes. And each visitor can choose one of them that he likes.
  3. In the Gràcia district there is a small restaurant called SMS. It serves Catalan cuisine and seafood.

How to buy property in Barcelona

After your first visit to the capital of Catalonia, you will certainly want to visit here again. And in order not to stay in hotels or rented accommodation, many domestic tourists are thinking about buying property in Barcelona. You can buy a house or apartment in Spain for the purpose of a seasonal holiday, moving for permanent residence, or as part of investing in local real estate. And regardless of your ultimate goal, we will help you profitably buy a home in Spain.

For our services, we charge a 5% commission on the value of the object. This amount includes:

  1. Selection of real estate in accordance with your preferences.
  2. Advice on investment projects and their selection.
  3. Professional assistance in obtaining a Golden Visa.

In addition, our specialists can provide you with additional services related to the execution of a power of attorney and other documents. You can also order repairs in the purchased apartments. The cost of such services is determined on an individual basis.

For professional advice, write to us at: [email protected].

What are the prices of the best places in Barcelona?

If a restaurant is located near a popular tourist attraction, then you can’t count on low prices there. It is worth walking a little deeper into the city, away from the crowds of tourists, and you can have lunch, paying 15-20% less on the bill. Usually, the cost of a light snack (coffee and croissant) will cost 2-3 euros per person. The cost of a full breakfast varies between 5-8 euros. The highest prices for the lunch menu: up to 25 euros per person. The average check for a hearty lunch or dinner for two is 50 euros.

Are there any fancy restaurants in Barcelona?

Considering the active tourist flow to the country and the high competition with establishments offering traditional Spanish cuisine, some entrepreneurs decided to offer something extraordinary to the country’s guests. So, in Spain there is a unique cafe where visitors are offered to eat in complete darkness. There is also an institution that specializes in unusual desserts. For example, there you can try black olive ice cream or ginger cheesecake. Many tourists come specifically to visit a restaurant that looks like a fairytale forest: with trees, caves and moss.