Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is known for its rich culinary scene. From traditional tapas to experimental gastronomy, this city has something to offer every food lover.
Anthony Bourdain, the late renowned chef and travel documentarian, explored the hidden gems of Barcelona during his visit. Let’s take a closer look at some of the places where Bourdain indulged in Barcelona’s culinary delights.
La Boqueria
If you are a food enthusiast visiting Barcelona, La Boqueria is a must-visit destination. Located on La Rambla, this bustling market is a sensory delight with an array of fresh produce, seafood, cured meats, and local delicacies. Bourdain was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and flavors found in this foodie haven.
Tapas 24
Bourdain’s love for tapas took him to Tapas 24, an iconic spot in Barcelona. This cozy restaurant is known for its creative twists on traditional Spanish tapas. Bourdain indulged in their famous Bikini sandwich – a delicious combination of Iberian ham, cheese, and truffles sandwiched between two crispy slices of bread.
Els Quatre Gats
A historic establishment with an artistic ambiance, Els Quatre Gats was another favorite of Bourdain. This legendary café played host to avant-garde artists such as Pablo Picasso in its early years. Here, Bourdain savored classic Catalan dishes like escalivada (grilled vegetables) and botifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with white beans).
Cervecería Catalana
Bourdain couldn’t resist the charm of Cervecería Catalana – a bustling tapas bar that has become an institution in Barcelona. Known for its extensive selection of tapas, this place offers a true taste of Catalan cuisine. Bourdain sampled their patatas bravas, crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli, and couldn’t stop raving about them.
Quimet & Quimet
A hidden gem tucked away in the Poble Sec neighborhood, Quimet & Quimet is a small tapas bar that Bourdain discovered during his Barcelona adventure. Known for its mouthwatering montaditos (bite-sized sandwiches), this place offers an impressive selection of canned seafood paired with unique combinations of sauces and toppings. Bourdain was blown away by the explosion of flavors in every bite.
Can Paixano
During his visit to Barcelona, Bourdain also ventured to Can Paixano, a lively cava bar that has been serving locals since 1969. This unassuming spot is famous for its sparkling wine and delectable sandwiches filled with cured meats and cheeses. Bourdain enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere while sipping on refreshing glasses of cava.
In Conclusion
Barcelona’s culinary landscape left a lasting impression on Anthony Bourdain. From iconic markets to hidden gems, he explored the diverse flavors that make this city a food lover’s paradise. If you ever find yourself in Barcelona, be sure to follow in Bourdain’s footsteps and indulge in the gastronomic wonders that await you.