Best Places to Eat in Barcelona

One of the things I loved most about Barcelona is that they have SO many dairy-free options available at every restaurant. After traveling to other European countries, we were worried that I would be limited in what I could eat, but it was actually more difficult to find places that Ryan liked – he’s a very picky eater and doesn’t like seafood (which I LOVE). What we liked and hope all U.S. restaurants adopt is that they had icons next to each dish name identifying the allergens found in them, which was so convenient. With that said, I pulled together a list of the best places to eat in Barcelona (in my opinion) that both picky eaters and food lovers can enjoy!

There are a ton of restaurants in Barcelona so getting recommendations from friends and doing our own research beforehand was super helpful, as we knew exactly where to go throughout the day to get a tasty meal after a bunch of adventuring.

A few tips as you look through the below and explore Barcelona: restaurants:

• Pay attention to the open days. There were several times throughout our trip (particularly in Portugal) when we had our mind set on a place, only to get there and find that they were closed that day. Look up the restaurant ahead of time and make sure that it’s open on the day you plan to visit.
• Also, take note of the operating times. Restaurants open a bit later than what we’re used to here in the U.S., so while you’re checking the open days, take a peek to see what time they open.
• Cash vs. Card. While most restaurants accept credit cards, there are a few smaller places that are cash only. I noted the ones that we went to that are cash only below.

I hope you find this list helpful! If you do end up trying any of these, let me know how you liked it and what you got! And please share additional recommendations in the comments section below so others can check out your picks (and so I can re-live my trip a bit)! 😊

Xo,

Jo

Brunch

• Brunch and Cake: We came here our first day per my friend’s recommendation and it was the best way to kick-start our vacation. We did have to wait in line (aka a “queue”) for about 20-30 minutes, but it was 100 percent worth it. If you’re super hungry, get a snack or pastry at a nearby bakery while you wait and keep in mind that they usually seat smaller parties (2-3) quicker than larger ones. 

• Flax & Kale: This was another brunch spot I received recommendations for and found in my research. Everything on their menu is health-focused and tastes delicious – especially the pastries! Our favorite dish here: Matcha muffin. We came in around 10 a.m. on a Sunday and got seated right away!
  • What we got: The Scandal Scramble, Bacon & Cheese Bagel, Matcha Muffin, Latte and Matcha Latte with Oat Milk

• La Boqueria Market: This market has it all – breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, souvenirs, literally everything under the sun. It’s probably most well-known for its juice smoothies which they sell at every other market stand – for 1€ might I add! I was basic and went with the banana and strawberry flavor and it was so good, we went back and got another.  
  • What we got: Strawberry and Banana Juice and Cheese & Ham Empanada

Other recommended breakfast & lunch spots we didn’t get to try: Café Cometa, Milk Bar & Bistro, Café Mensanna, and Petit Pot Café Bistro

Dinner

• Xativa L’Arrosseria: We went here on our way to Park Guell and I’m not kidding when I say this, it was the best meal I’ve ever had. We did end up waiting about 30 minutes or so to get in (note: they do take reservations so if you can, I recommend making some!), but it was 100% worth the wait.
  • What we got: Homemade Chicken Croquettes, Fried Potatoes in Spicy Sauce and Valencian Paella with Chicken

• Bodega Biarritz 1881: A VERY cozy tapas restaurant tucked away off the main street in Barcelona that’s perfect for couples looking for a bit of adventure. The restaurant only seats about 19 people so make sure you arrive early (we got there right when it opened and didn’t have to wait) or be prepared to wait. They offer an eight-course meal, served tapas-style with a pre-set menu where the servers present you with the most popular dishes of the day. They also have an option for about 5 euros more where you can choose the items you’d like to try. Note: This restaurant is cash-only – starts at about 40€ for two people (not including drinks).

• Reina Margherita: As some of you may know, Ryan loves his Italian food so going on a trip without stopping at an Italian restaurant was just not going to happen. He tried plenty of pizza in Barcelona and this place was the little taste of Italy that we both craved. It was delicious, and the owner was so sweet – he gave us free limoncello shots at the end of our dinner which was the perfect ending to our night!
  • What we got: Margherita Pizza and Pasta with Clams  

Other recommended dinner spots we didn’t get to try: Bar Canete,Arume Restaurant,El Xampanyet, Sensi Tapas

Dessert

• Chok: Advertised as vegan heaven and let me tell you, they’re not wrong. We stumbled by this place on a whim and thank god we did because it’s where I had the best Nutella doughnut of my life. Since going dairy-free I haven’t been able to enjoy a doughnut, so this was actual heaven. They have all the desserts – I’m talking truffles, cupcakes, cronuts, muffins, cakes, cookies and DOUGHNUTS!
  • What we got: Nutella Doughnut and Blueberry Lemon Muffin

• Sante Gelato: Another place we stumbled on during one of our walks and boy am I glad we did. Barcelona has gelato shops on every corner, but this spot was super cute, priced well and had dairy-free gelato options!

Other recommended dessert spots we didn’t get to try: La Cava Bakery

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