Barcelona Restaurants - Barcelona Cuisine

Catalan cuisine

Barcelona's variation of Mediterranean cooking starts with fresh, seasonal ingredients and builds layers of taste with garlic, olive oil, lemons, dried fruits and nuts. Since Barcelona sits on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, expect to find fresh fish and seafood on almost every menu.

No trip to Barcelona would be complete without:

• Tapas - These little tasting dishes are not meant to replace a meal, but are designed as a pleasant entrance to a leisurely, social dinner. The dishes are as varied as the cooks who prepare them. Whether you sample innovative or classic versions, tapas are always based on local produce. While no single dish defines tapas, common choices include stuffed tomatoes, smoked fish, salt cod fritters, empanadas or marinated olives.
• Sangria - This blend of red wine, fruit and brandy is a perfect light drink for a sunny afternoon. Because recipes vary widely, be careful to pace yourself; sangria can be soda-pop mild or deceptively potent. Classic sangria comes with a cinnamon stick to ward off hangovers.
• Zarzuela de Mariscos a la Catalana - This traditional Catalan stew is bursting with seafood. Mussels, clams, shrimp, squid and fish simmer in wine, onions, tomato and spices. Nuts, bread and Spanish brandy add depth. A meal in itself, this Spanish variation of bouillabaisse makes the most of Mediterranean ingredients.
• Paella - Originally from the Valencia region, this dish has come to represent Spanish cuisine. Tender seafood, spicy sausage, rice, spices and a splash of wine make this all-in-one dish simple, savory and sensational.
• Crema Catalana - While Barcelona has tempting pastries, this creamy dessert with a crisp sugar top is a regional classic. Similar to crème brûlée, the Spanish version is lighter with a hint of lemon, orange and cinnamon.
• Coffee - Strong and sharp, Spanish coffee is wonderful - if you get the real McCoy. Avoid decaffeinated since more often than not you'll be served instant. For a twist, ask for iced coffee (café amb gel or café con hielo). This classic but simple beverage - hot coffee poured over ice - is more refreshing than the sweet, creamy North American version.