What to Eat in Barcelona
- Paella. A traditional Spanish dish made of rice, meat, and seafood. Barcelona is famous for its own version of paella, which includes more seafood than the original version from Valencia.
- Tapas. Small portions of various dishes, often served as appetizers or part of an evening gathering. Barcelona is known for its diverse and delicious tapas.
- Cava. Spanish sparkling wine, similar to champagne. Most cava is produced in Catalonia, especially in the area around Barcelona.
- Gazpacho. A cold soup made of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and other ingredients. Although gazpacho originates from Andalusia, it is very popular in Barcelona, especially during the hot summer months.
- Crema Catalana. The Catalan version of crème brûlée, served with a caramelized crust. This dessert is very popular in Barcelona and is often served in local restaurants.
- Calçots. A type of spring onion that is grilled and served with romesco sauce. Calçots are a Catalan specialty and are often served in Barcelona during the spring months.
- Esqueixada. A Catalan salad made with shredded salted or dried cod, tomatoes, and onions. This light and refreshing salad is very popular in Barcelona, especially during the summer.
- Botifarra. A Catalan sausage made from pork and spices. In Barcelona, it is often served with beans or as part of tapas.
- Escalivada. Grilled vegetables, usually eggplant, peppers, and onions, served as a side dish or tapas. This dish is very popular in Barcelona and is often prepared both at home and in restaurants.
- Mel i mató. A dessert made of fresh cheese similar to ricotta, honey, and nuts. This simple and tasty dessert is very popular in Barcelona.
- Patatas bravas. Fried potatoes served with a spicy sauce. Patatas bravas are a popular tapas throughout Spain, but Barcelona has its own special version of the sauce.
- Suquet de peix. A fish stew with potatoes, tomatoes, and garlic. A traditional Catalan dish that reflects Barcelona's proximity to the sea.
- Canelones. The Catalan version of Italian cannelloni, filled with meat and baked with cheese. Canelones are a popular Christmas dish in Barcelona but are served throughout the year.
- … and 20 more Spanish dishes from the list: What to Eat in Spain.
Enjoy eating your way around Barcelona!
Cava: The Spanish Sparkling Wine That Can't Be Called Champagne
Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine that gets its bubbles from a second fermentation in the bottle, just like champagne - only from the Catalan grapes Macabeu, Xarel·lo and Parellada, and under a name that means cellar. Almost all cava is made in the Penedès region around the small town of Sant Sadurní d'Anoia. Alongside the history and the fight over the name, the article ends with a bottle of Mestres Visol Gran Reserva in Alicante.