The Esquerra de l'Eixample neighborhood in Barcelona has been transformed by a proliferation of 'brunch' spots, 'poke' restaurants, and franchises. However, traditional Catalan cuisine continues to be a benchmark thanks to several establishments that successfully resist this trend. These venues offer a variety of proposals ranging from bodegas with long queues to taverns run by renowned chefs.
Among the most prominent options is Bar Gelida, an institution at the corner of Urgell and Diputació, known for its traditional dishes like chickpeas with hard-boiled egg or fricandó, at very competitive prices. Albert Llopart and his son Gerard have kept this tradition alive. Recently, in 2024, they opened Migrat just across the street, offering the same culinary essence with more space.
Bar Dijous, a cooperative on Consell de Cent street, champions Catalan cuisine with dishes like 'mongetes del ganxet' and 'esqueixada de bacallà', under the direction of chef Joan Vallès. Meanwhile, Taverna del Clínic, at Rosselló 155, is famous for its tubular 'patatas bravas' and classics like roasted duck cannelloni, with chef Toni Simôes at the helm since he was young.
Artur Martínez, a Michelin-starred chef for Aürt, presents Trü on Còrsega street, an informal tavern that champions local cuisine with dishes like thyme consommé and farmer's omelet. Desserts by Mar Ibáñez, such as the warm cream 'xuixo', are another of its attractions. At Casa Fiero, on Londres 89 street, the partners of Maleducat de Sant Antoni offer a menu with casserole noodles and pork cheeks with chickpeas, in a space with a retro feel.
Glug, at the corner of Viladomat and París, is the result of a culinary fusion between Beatrice Casella (Italian) and Ivan Garcia (Catalan), with proposals like Gordal olives stuffed with roasted chicken 'a la manresana'. They were recognized as the best chefs in Catalonia at the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona. On Mallorca street, 77 Kilos, led by Gerard Cuartero and Sara Di Bari, offers a seasonal menu with small plates and iconic croquettes, in a discreet setting with adjusted prices.
Finally, Pepa Bar a Vins, on Aribau 41 street, is a space with a selection of small plates and wines, where sommelier Camila Espinoza creates a personalized experience. It is a place frequented by Barcelona's entertainment industry. Bar Alegria, with over a century of history on Comte Borrell 133 street, is a meeting point for vermouth lovers, with Tomás Abellán at the helm, standing out for its truffled omelet and its 'bikini' sandwich.
