Bar del Pla
It would be a crime not to include Bar del Pla on this list as it is one of the most authentic, lively, and charming in Barcelona. It still has the feel of a secret find, even if there are few secrets left to be revealed in the city. Bar del Pla is a casual, inviting favourite of locals and we expect that after you go, you’ll agree it is worth the effort. We recommend the coca de sardinas (a Catalan ‘pizza’ with sardines), calamari with chickpeas, cannelloni stuffed with suckling pig, and the fish and rice daily specials. There’s always a lively, busy atmosphere and the wine list reflects a commitment to high-quality and organic options. David Moralejo
Address: Carrer de Montcada, 2, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Website: bardelpla.cat
GoXO
GoXO, in the NH Collection Constanza de Barcelona hotel, combines the best of fine dining, in terms of ingredients and their preparations, with the informal style of the best fast food. There’s no table service and you can either pick up your order in person or have it delivered to you using the Glovo app. Dabiz Muñoz, the chef behind GoXO, embarked on this revolutionary step in Madrid, before the pandemic, and then brought his idea to Barcelona too. There is a physical space within the NH hotel, with both a dining room and a terrace. You can pick up your order and take it with you or you can choose to eat it onsite—there simply isn’t table service, however. The menu, as well as the basic concept of the venture itself, is constantly in flux. Highlights on the current menu include Singapore udon carbonara, barbequed rib tacos, and the Hong Kong-Madriz stew (with chicken dumplings, chickpeas, and potatoes). Plus, there are some specials only available to diners who eat their meals onsite. Marta Sahelices
Address: Carrer de Déu i Mata, 69-98 Jardins de Sant Joan de Déu, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
Website: elgoxo.com
