Pa amb tomàquet, escalivada, esqueixada, and xuixo are the signature dishes of Barcelona, offering a taste of the city’s rich culinary scene, with a mix of traditional and modern flavors.
The 8 Dishes You Must Try Before You Leave
- Pa amb tomàquet (pah ahm toh-MAH-keh-tay), bread with fresh tomato, garlic, and olive oil, is a classic Catalan dish, found at La Boqueria Market for 5-7€ ($5.50-$7.70 USD).
- Escalivada (eh-skah-lee-VAH-thah), a roasted vegetable dish, is a must-try at Can Culleretes restaurant, costing 12-15€ ($13.20-$16.50 USD).
- Esqueixada (eh-skeeh-SHAH-thah), a hearty salad with shredded cod, is available at El Quim de la Boqueria for 15-18€ ($16.50-$19.80 USD).
- Xuixo (SHOO-choh), a sweet pastry, can be found at Pasteleria Escriba for 3-5€ ($3.30-$5.50 USD).
- Botifarra amb mongetes (boh-tee-FAH-rah ahm mohng-HEH-tehs), white beans and sausage, is a traditional Catalan dish, served at Cal Pep for 18-22€ ($19.80-$24.20 USD).
- Crema Catalana (KREH-mah kah-tah-LAH-nah), a Catalan cream dessert, is a must-try at El Xampanyet for 6-8€ ($6.60-$8.80 USD).
- Paella (pah-EH-yah), a classic Spanish dish, is available at Can Majó for 20-25€ ($22-$27.50 USD).
- Churros con chocolate (CHOO-rrohs kohn choh-KOH-lah-teh), fried dough sticks with chocolate, can be found at Granja Viader for 5-7€ ($5.50-$7.70 USD).
Street Food Guide: Where, What & How Much
The best street food areas in Barcelona are La Rambla, La Boqueria Market, and El Born. At La Rambla, try the fresh fruit and street performers from 10am-10pm, costing 5-10€ ($5.50-$11 USD). At La Boqueria Market, sample the local cheeses and cured meats from 8am-8:30pm, costing 10-20€ ($11-$22 USD). At El Born, enjoy the traditional tapas from 12pm-12am, costing 10-20€ ($11-$22 USD).
Where to Eat: By Budget
Street Food & Markets
For a budget-friendly option, head to La Boqueria Market or El Born, where meals cost 10-20€ ($11-$22 USD). Try the pa amb tomàquet or escalivada at La Boqueria Market for 5-7€ ($5.50-$7.70 USD).
Local Neighborhood Spots
For a mid-range option, visit El Raval or Poble Sec, where meals cost 20-30€ ($22-$33 USD). Try the botifarra amb mongetes at Cal Pep for 18-22€ ($19.80-$24.20 USD).
Tourist-Friendly Mid-Range
For a tourist-friendly option, head to La Rambla or Barceloneta, where meals cost 30-40€ ($33-$44 USD). Try the paella at Can Majó for 20-25€ ($22-$27.50 USD).
Worth-the-Splurge Restaurants
For a high-end option, visit El Xampanyet or Can Culleretes, where meals cost 50-100€ ($55-$110 USD). Try the crema catalana at El Xampanyet for 6-8€ ($6.60-$8.80 USD).
Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Options
Barcelona has a growing vegetarian and vegan scene, with many restaurants offering options. Try Vegetalia or Teresa Carles for vegetarian and vegan dishes, costing 15-25€ ($16.50-$27.50 USD). For allergy-friendly options, head to Gluten-free Barcelona or La Boqueria Market, where gluten-free and lactose-free options are available.
Pro Tip: Ask for the menu del día (menu of the day) at local restaurants, which often includes vegetarian and vegan options.
What Locals Actually Drink
Locals in Barcelona drink horchata (orxata), a sweet, milky drink made from tigernuts, costing 2-3€ ($2.20-$3.30 USD). They also drink tinto de verano, a summer red wine, costing 3-5€ ($3.30-$5.50 USD). For a local beer, try Estrella Damm, costing 2-3€ ($2.20-$3.30 USD).
Food Etiquette & Practical Tips
Tipping in Barcelona is around 5-10% of the total bill. Dining hours are usually from 1pm-4pm and 8pm-11pm. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants.
Pro Tip: Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants on La Rambla, and instead opt for local neighborhood spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Barcelona for food?
The best time to visit Barcelona for food is during the summer months (June-August) when the city hosts many food festivals and events.
What is the average cost of a meal in Barcelona?
The average cost of a meal in Barcelona is around 20-30€ ($22-$33 USD) per person.
What are the best neighborhoods to find street food in Barcelona?
The best neighborhoods to find street food in Barcelona are El Raval, Poble Sec, and El Born.
What is the best way to get around Barcelona to try different foods?
The best way to get around Barcelona to try different foods is by using the metro or bus system, or by walking or biking.
Plan a Foodie Trip to Barcelona
To plan a foodie trip to Barcelona, use Destinexa’s free AI trip planner to find the best restaurants, bars, and food markets. With our expert guide, you’ll be able to experience the best of Barcelona’s culinary scene.