What Is Paella Called in Barcelona?

By Michael Ferguson

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in Valencia. It is a rice-based dish that is typically cooked with saffron and a variety of seafood, meats, and vegetables. However, if you’re in Barcelona and looking for paella, you might be surprised to find that it’s not called paella at all!

In Barcelona, the dish is known as “arroz,” which simply means rice in Spanish. This naming convention is due to the fact that the traditional Valencian recipe for paella differs significantly from the way it is prepared in Barcelona.

While paella traditionally includes rabbit and chicken alongside seafood, arroz in Barcelona often features only seafood like shrimp, mussels, and lobster. The rice used to make arroz is also typically shorter grain than what is used in paella.

If you’re looking for a great place to try arroz in Barcelona, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. One popular spot is La Mar Salada, located near Barceloneta Beach. This restaurant offers an extensive menu of seafood dishes including several types of arroz.

Another great option is Barraca, located in the Poble Sec neighborhood. This restaurant specializes in traditional Catalan cuisine and serves up a delicious arroz with squid ink.

No matter where you decide to try arroz in Barcelona, be sure to pair it with a glass of local wine or cava for the full experience.

In conclusion, while many people may refer to this iconic Spanish dish as paella, those in Barcelona know it simply as arroz. So next time you’re visiting this vibrant city on Spain’s coast, be sure to order up a plate of delicious arroz for an authentic taste of Catalan cuisine!