This blog post was originally posted on October 27, 2014, and was updated on October 24, 2017.
Traditional Catalan cuisine has an important role in Spain, a country whose regional specialties dictate its cuisine as a whole.
Furthermore, if you want to visit some of our favorite traditional Catalan restaurants in Barcelona, read on for all of the tasty details!
Traditional Catalan cuisine has an important role in Spain. It’s a country whose regional specialties dictate its cuisine as a whole. Here in Barcelona, just like with the rest of the booming restaurant, cafe, bar and bodega scene, choosing a restaurant to enjoy flavorful escalivada or hearty escudella de l’olla isn’t the easiest of tasks. Read on for a brief selection of great traditional Catalan restaurants in Barcelona. We’ve included all the best from the hole-in-the-wall to the white-tablecloth.
Can Culleretes
One of the oldest restaurants in Spain, Can Culleretes is a veteran of Barcelona. Founded in 1876 and still maintaining much of its classic charm, the place is an absolute must for filling, homemade dishes like escudella de l’olla (Catalan stew) or canelones. Expect no frills in the lively dining room whose bargain prices attract a big crowd any given day of the week.
Address: Carrer de Quintana, 5
Cal Papi
We love nothing more than a mother’s home cooking! There is something so deliciously comforting and authentic about it. Which is one of the reasons we love this little local’s only lunch spot. Find it tucked away on a side street just off the Barceloneta main square. It is run by a local family who specializes in all sorts of delicious and simple Catalan cuisine. It is definitely one of our favorite Catalan restaurants in Barcelona. We love this place so much that we even visit on our Tastes & Traditions of Barcelona Food Tour!
Address: Carrer de l’Atlàntida, 65
Can Vallès
Relatively hidden in a corner of the Eixample district, this cozy restaurant does everything with great quality, detail, and service. Find traditional Catalan fares with simple yet gourmet twists, like cannelloni with pig trotters, or a rich garbanzo stew with lobster. Local foodies love this place not only for its delicious, market-inspired menu but also for their impressive wine list. Reservations a must.
Address: Carrer d’Aragó, 95
El Glop
Outside the hustle and bustle of Barcelona’s city center and up in the charming Vila de Gràcia, find El Glop, a simple, rustic tavern with a nice atmosphere, no tourists, and incredibly delicious homemade food. Don’t leave without trying the tocinillo for dessert, you won’t regret it!
Address: Carrer de Sant Lluís, 24
7 Portes
Founded in 1836, this immense corner restaurant houses some serious history within its walls. The name itself comes from the seven doors (actually eight including the service door) to the beautiful Passeig Isabel II. Once a luxurious cafe opened by Barcelona’s wealthiest man, today it remains a Barcelona fine dining classic. Though their specialty is rice, namely the paella or fideua, the susquet de rape which is a monkfish stew is also to die for. Live piano music and a truly lovely setting, 7 Portes is perfect for any special occasion, even if that occasion is just discovering traditional Catalan cuisine.
Address: Passeig Isabel II, 14
Do you have a favorite traditional Catalan restaurant in Barcelona? Tell us all about it. We are sure our guests would love to hear all about it! Furthermore, why not check out this great little video below. Our expert guide Raquel fills you in on all you need to know about delicious Catalan food. And furthermore, even more traditional Catalan restaurants in Barcelona!