Best Restaurants in Barcelona to Suit Every Craving

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is famous for its unique combination of historic charm and cosmopolitan flair. With architectural masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, sunny beaches, and bustling boulevards such as La Rambla, the city never ceases to amaze visitors.

But Barcelona is also a food lover’s paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Barcelona, ranging from budget-friendly gems and top vegetarian eateries to romantic venues and Michelin-starred experiences. Whether you’re savoring tapas in a lively bar or dining in a refined culinary temple, Barcelona has something for every appetite.

And to enjoy your food journey without hauling around your belongings, consider using Qeepl, a convenient luggage storage provider found across the city. Drop your bags at one of their secure locations and make the most of your time exploring Barcelona’s incredible restaurants hands-free.

What Should You Know About Food in Barcelona?

Barcelona’s cuisine is rooted in Catalan culinary traditions, which stand out even in a country known for its regional food diversity. Local dishes often revolve around seafood, cured meats, fresh vegetables, and olive oil, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and bold, natural flavors.

Some of the best food in Barcelona can be found in the form of tapas, small sharing plates that range from patatas bravas and Iberian ham to grilled squid and anchovies. But Catalan staples such as pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), escalivada (grilled vegetables), and fideuà (a noodle-based seafood dish similar to paella) offer deeper insight into the city’s culinary soul. Barcelona also embraces fusion and innovation, blending its rich heritage with global influences and contemporary techniques.

Best Affordable Restaurants in Barcelona

Barcelona offers an array of wallet-friendly restaurants where quality is never compromised. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full meal, these places offer fantastic value for money.

1. Bodega Montferry

Located in the Sants neighborhood, Bodega Montferry is a classic Catalan tavern with a cult following. Known for its generous sandwiches, tapas, and homemade vermouth, it’s a nostalgic nod to traditional Spanish bodegas.

The place is small and cozy, filled with vintage charm. Dishes like chistorra sausage sandwiches and lentil stew are priced between €4 and €10, making it a great choice for a casual, tasty lunch. Locals often stop in for a quick tapa and a drink before heading home or to work.

2. Can Vilaró

Right beside the Sant Antoni Market, Can Vilaró is a hidden gem for anyone looking to try authentic, homestyle Catalan cuisine. The atmosphere is unpretentious—this is where market workers eat, and that’s always a good sign.

Daily specials such as tripe stew, chickpeas with blood sausage, and catalan-style meatballs are served generously. Prices for main courses hover between €8 and €14, and the experience feels like eating in a family kitchen. It opens early, so it’s also a favorite for breakfast and brunch.

3. Bo de B

This tiny, always-busy spot near Barceloneta Beach serves massive, made-to-order sandwiches and salads packed with grilled meats, vegetables, and tangy sauces. Bo de B is perfect for travelers on the go, especially those exploring the Gothic Quarter or heading to the beach.

For just €6 to €9, you get a meal that could easily feed two. The sandwiches are freshly assembled, and each ingredient is prepared with care, making this one of the most satisfying cheap eats in town.

4. Taverna Can Margarit

Tucked away in Poble-sec, Taverna Can Margarit is a rustic tavern with a long tradition. As you enter, you’ll find barrels of wine, antique furniture, and a warm, old-world ambiance. They serve classic Catalan food such as butifarra sausage, snails, and roasted meats.

Portions are generous and prices very reasonable—expect to pay around €15–€20 for a full meal, including drinks. It’s a place where the setting and the flavors together create a truly local experience.

5. El Pachuco

A vibrant Mexican cantina located in the Raval district, El Pachuco is known for its loaded nachos, tacos, and frozen margaritas. It may not be traditional Catalan, but it’s one of the most beloved budget-friendly restaurants in the city, especially among young locals.

The atmosphere is upbeat and colorful, with food prices ranging from €5 to €12. The portions are large, and the flavors punchy—ideal for groups or casual diners looking for a quick and festive meal.

Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Barcelona

Plant-based dining in Barcelona has exploded in recent years, with many restaurants catering specifically to vegetarians and vegans. These spots offer flavorful, nutritious, and creative dishes that appeal to everyone.

1. Teresa Carles

One of the pioneers of vegetarian cuisine in Barcelona, Teresa Carles in El Raval has been serving innovative, health-conscious dishes since 1979. The interior is modern yet cozy, with wooden tables and an open kitchen.

The menu ranges from veggie lasagna and homemade gnocchi to fresh juices and vegan desserts. Meals are usually priced between €12 and €18, and the quality is consistently high. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch or early dinner.

2. Flax & Kale

Also run by the team behind Teresa Carles, Flax & Kale brands itself as “flexitarian,” focusing mostly on vegetarian and vegan dishes with occasional seafood. The vibe is sleek and urban, with a rooftop garden and cold-pressed juice bar.

Signature dishes include zucchini spaghetti, kombucha-marinated tempeh, and acai bowls. Prices are a bit higher, ranging from €15 to €25, but the ingredients are top-notch and beautifully presented.

3. Rasoterra

A fine-dining vegetarian bistro hidden in the Gothic Quarter, Rasoterra emphasizes organic, local produce and sustainability. The menu is seasonal, with daily specials and tasting menus that surprise and delight.

Popular items include beetroot tartare, truffle risotto, and artichoke tempura. Expect to pay around €20 to €35 per person for a complete meal. The setting is intimate and calm—ideal for a quiet, mindful dinner.

4. The Green Spot

Stylish, modern, and just steps from the beach, The Green Spot offers a globally inspired vegetarian menu in a relaxed setting. Think cauliflower pizza, Indian curries, Korean-style tofu, and colorful hummus platters.

The restaurant attracts a trendy crowd and prices range from €14 to €22 per main course. It’s a great spot for those looking to eat clean and enjoy international flavors in a beautiful space.

5. Biocenter

A long-standing favorite in the heart of the city, Biocenter is one of the most accessible and budget-friendly vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona. It has a cozy, almost bohemian atmosphere, and serves soups, salads, curries, and cakes.

Their daily lunch menu is particularly popular—€12 gets you a starter, main, dessert, and a drink. It’s great for a casual meal after museum hopping or shopping.

Romantic Restaurants in Barcelona

For a memorable night with your partner, Barcelona offers intimate restaurants that combine atmosphere with exquisite cuisine. Here are five of the city’s most romantic spots.

1. El Pla

Hidden in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, El Pla is a candlelit restaurant with stone walls, velvet curtains, and a soft, romantic glow. It’s ideal for couples seeking a cozy, quiet night out.

The menu focuses on Mediterranean fusion, with dishes like duck magret, saffron risotto, and tuna tartare. A dinner for two costs between €60 and €90, depending on wine choices. The service is discreet and professional, adding to the intimate ambiance.

2. Torre d’Alta Mar

Located atop a former port cable tower, Torre d’Alta Mar offers one of the most stunning views in the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the sea and skyline, making it perfect for watching the sunset.

The seafood-based menu includes lobster bisque, scallops, and paella with a twist, and prices start around €80 per person. This is a top pick for a proposal or special occasion.

3. Winter Garden at El Palace Hotel

Set in a rooftop garden above one of Barcelona’s most luxurious hotels, this restaurant offers elegance, privacy, and greenery in the heart of the city. In spring and summer, dining under the stars is a magical experience.

The cuisine is Mediterranean with creative touches, and the average meal for two costs between €100 and €150. The setting is unforgettable, with views of rooftops and church domes.

4. Casa Xica

A small, homey restaurant in Poble-sec run by a couple with a passion for Asian-Catalan fusion. Casa Xica is low-key but packed with character. There’s soft music, handwritten menus, and personal touches everywhere.

Dishes like kimchi croquettes, bao with pork belly, and coconut rice pudding give it an adventurous edge. Dinner here is usually €30–€50 per person, and it’s perfect for couples who love culinary exploration.

5. Enoteca Paco Pérez

Inside the Hotel Arts, this elegant two-Michelin-starred restaurant provides a sleek and modern backdrop for romance. The menu, designed by chef Paco Pérez, blends Mediterranean seafood with avant-garde presentation.

Expect courses like red shrimp carpaccio or sea bass with plankton sauce, with tasting menus starting at €130 per person. The service and wine list are world-class, creating an exceptional experience for fine dining lovers.

Are There Michelin Star Restaurants in Barcelona?

Yes—Barcelona is home to an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants. According to Michelin Guide, the city boasts 31 starred restaurants, ranging from one to three stars, solidifying its place among Europe’s top culinary destinations.

Here are three standout examples across different levels:

• Disfrutar (3 Stars): Run by chefs Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch, and Mateu Casañas, Disfrutar offers a cutting-edge Mediterranean tasting menu in a stylish, art-filled space. The experience is playful and technical, with dishes that surprise and challenge the palate. Prices range from €210 to €250 per person, and it’s located near Passeig de Gràcia.
• Lasarte (3 Stars): Chef Martín Berasategui’s Barcelona outpost, Lasarte is a temple of precision and innovation. Expect a formal, luxurious setting and exquisite modern Spanish cuisine with Basque influences. Signature dishes include truffle egg yolk with mushroom broth and lobster with citrus pearls. Menus start around €220 per person, and the restaurant is located near Gaudí’s La Pedrera.
• Cinc Sentits (2 Stars): Chef Jordi Artal delivers a modern Catalan tasting menu that tells a story through flavors and textures. Located in the Eixample neighborhood, Cinc Sentits offers an intimate and immersive dining experience. The focus is on local products and sensory harmony, with tasting menus starting at €150. Close by are attractions like the National Theatre and Plaça de Catalunya.