The Best Spanish Restaurants in Barcelona

Looking for an authentic local dish, traditional Spanish tapas, or flavorful Catalan cuisine? You’ll find plenty of options, from cozy neighborhood bars to sophisticated restaurants. Below is a selection of our top recommendations.

1. Casa Leopoldo

This reopened classic pays tribute to the original restaurant Casa Leopoldo, founded in 1929 by señor Leopoldo. It was his granddaughter, Rosa Gil, a local born and raised, who turned it into a beloved institution. Her legacy lives on in every corner of Casa Leopoldo. The dishes, inspired by her traditional recipes, have been given a modern twist. The squid is outstanding, and the Spanish oxtail is just as impressive. Much of the original interior, including the beautiful tiles, remains, now complemented by fresh colors and contemporary touches. A must-try!

2. Bar Cañete

Bar Cañete is really one of those places where you hang out all night and always order way too much. The tastiest cheeses, Spanish ham and fresh fish makes choosing difficult. There are tapas as well as some larger dishes. The homemade paella is delicious and different every day.

3. Bar del Pla

Bar de Pla is hidden away in one of the cozy streets of the El Born neighborhood. The ambiance is simple, with large wine barrels as tables and a long bar where locals sit early in the morning with their beer. All the classic tapas are on the menu, and meat and fish lovers in particular will find plenty to eat here. The flavor combinations are surprising and delicious!

4. Los Caracoles

Los Caracoles is a renowned culinary attraction in Barcelona, featured in nearly every travel guide about the city. This iconic restaurant has been serving delicious dishes since 1835 and has expanded over the years to include multiple adjacent buildings and floors, creating a fascinating labyrinth of different rooms and dining spaces.

At Los Caracoles, you’ll enjoy not only exquisite cuisine but also a unique atmosphere. Outside, the aroma of chicken roasting on the spit fills the air, while inside, you first pass through the lively kitchen to reach your table. In the past, sailors visiting the port would come here to order a drink, accompanied by a small dish of ‘caracoles’ (snails), which explains the origin of the restaurant’s name. This traditional dish is still available today and is a must-try for all visitors.

5. La Venta

Restaurant La Venta has been a cherished culinary institution in Barcelona since 1904. Nestled on the picturesque Tibidabo hill this restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect dining destination.

What sets La Venta apart is its unique culinary history. Initially celebrated for its French cuisine, the restaurant quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Today, you can find a delightful blend of traditional Spanish and Catalan dishes, enriched with subtle French influences. Originally named “Gran Restaurante de France,” the establishment adopted its current name, La Venta, in 1948.

6. Restaurante Salamanca

Although Salamanca is not located in a traditional Spanish fishing town, this restaurant in the Barceloneta district specializes in seafood, particularly its famous fish paella, which is the most popular dish on the menu.

7. Can Codina

At this restaurant, you’ll enjoy tapas just like the locals do, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhood. Definitely try the delicious homemade croquettes, huevos estrellados (fried eggs with fries and ham), and Russian salad, as well as garlic shrimp and patatas bravas (with a truly delightful sauce).

The menu features not only traditional tapas and Catalan sausages but also burgers, offering something for everyone. The classic interior is charming, adorned with vintage refrigerators and a poster showcasing a photo of the café from 1908, reflecting its long-standing history. Plus, the friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

8. Can Travi Nou

Once located on the outskirts of the city, this old Catalan masia (farmhouse) now finds itself within the urban landscape, yet it still retains its lush green surroundings. The original structure and interior have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the past and guaranteeing an authentic local experience.

With several dining rooms available, the menu features classic dishes from Catalonia as well as specialties from other regions of Spain. Enjoy everything from paella and pig’s trotter to the finest fish from Galicia. Here, you can savor traditional flavors in a charming, historic setting that transports you back in time.

9. 7 Portes

Undoubtedly one of the most stunning restaurants in the city, 7Portes opened its doors in 1836 as a luxury café. The name refers to the seven entrances available to the public, while the eighth entrance was reserved for staff.

Today, this traditional restaurant is popular with tourists, though locals also love to visit. The menu offers a wide variety of Spanish and Catalan dishes, including meat, fish, rice dishes, and canelones (a type of pasta similar to Italian cannelloni).

10. Can Solé

In this classic family-run restaurant, now in its fourth generation, fishermen have been satisfying their appetites for over a hundred years. The menu features all the traditional paellas, rice dishes and fideuàs, but also exquisite seafood such as lobster.