KXAN Austin In effect until 10 AM Tuesday morning along & west of I-35. Very large hail and isolated tornadoes possible RADARWe Are Austin Pride Special Catch a "Green Fairy" cocktail from local spot El Ravalby We Are Austin No celebration is complete without raising a toast! Lucky for us Derrick Mangroo, Operations Manager at "El Raval",and Bartender Eddie Zeitler joined Chelsey in the kitchen to shake up a special pride-inspired cocktail and share more about the best bites and other sips to enjoy at this Spanish spot and TikTok @WeAreAustin and find us on Facebook at We Are Austin Lifestyle Show Kalimotxo will host several delicious events for "SXSBasque" March 14-16 At this point in "South by Southwest season," Austinites may be overwhelmed with music and event options. But we're also aware that hopping from show to show and panel to panel is hungry business. Kalimotxo East Sixth Street's Basque restaurant and cocktail bar is hosting some pop-up events and even a collaboration with fellow Spanish restaurant El Raval Here's what's on the menu for SXSBasque El Raval x Kalimotxo Collaboration, March 15Kalimotxo Chef de Cuisine Ben Savage will join forces with Chef Laila Bazahm of El Raval for an exclusive à la carte menu collaboration bringing Austinites some traditional flavors of the Basque and Catalan regions. Reservations for this all-day event are available on Resy Kalimotxo will host several delicious events for "SXSBasque" March 14-16 Austin has tons of great restaurants, but 10 of them are really on an inspired streak. The Restaurant of the Year nominees for CultureMap's 2025 Tastemaker Awards do more than make great food; they keep evolving and chasing the unexpected the Michelin Guide's Texas debut changed Austin's dining scene by awarding stars to seven Austin restaurants but Barley Swine and Hestia also got recognition in this historic group our winner will be the restaurant that our judges — a panel of past winners and editorial staff — hand select for a well-rounded the previous two Restaurant of the Year winners that have to wait to be eligible again Barley Swine is a nominee for Restaurant of the Year in 2025 Find out which nominee wins Restaurant of the Year on May 8 at the 2025 Tastemaker Awards party at Fair Market We’ll dine on bites from this year’s nominated chefs and restaurants and sip cocktails from our sponsors before revealing the winners in our short and sweet ceremony You can keep up with all the Tastemaker Award nominees in our special editorial series, then be sure to buy your tickets to see who triumphs let's raise a toast to our nominees for Restaurant of the Year: Barley SwineAmid conversations about the pretension of Austin’s food scene Barley Swine continues its commitment to fine dining in an approachable way Chef Bryce Gilmore is also now two years into operating River Field Farm finding his footing in a project that could last a lifetime — a real possibility as Barley Swine excels in its 15th year Craft OmakaseThis upscale sushi restaurant has only been open since December 2023 but it has already earned both a Michelin Star and a top-10 spot on Texas Monthly’s list of the best new restaurants of 2025 Craft Omakase’s signature 22-course menu takes guests on a sensory journey using the highest quality ingredients Dai DueThings have really heated up for Dai Due in the past year earning one of only two green stars awarded by the Texas Michelin Guide for sustainability plus recognition from the New York Times and USA Today but Dai Due stands out for its resourcefulness making wild boar a hot topic and giving South Texas credit wherever possible DipDipDip Tatsu-YaThis upscale omakase and Japanese hot pot restaurant puts a diner’s experience in their own hands but they’re set up for success with helpful staff demos and luxe ingredients A recent menu revamp added nabemono — which allows the ingredients to stay in the pot without overcooking — opening the experience up to people who want to leave the cooking to the pros Emmer & RyeThis longstanding farm-to-table restaurant on Austin’s iconic Rainey Street has kept locals coming back for more with its ever-changing culinary offerings and its extensive wine and cocktail menu Emmer & Rye’s sustainability practices – such as whole-animal butchery and house-made bread and pasta – earned it Michelin’s other Texas green star EsteThis instantly iconic East Austin eatery is renowned for its cold bar selections from its oysters topped with salsa negra to its shrimp aguachile Even while building one of the city's most celebrated daily dining services the Este team has been busy giving garden tours and planning an unending list of special events HestiaNamed after the Greek goddess of the hearth Hestia respects the classics but never gets complacent from sourdough ice cream to a variety of lactic acid fermented produce A new bar and a residency at Pershing have switched up the experience for both longtime fans and newcomers who can now enjoy the menu in a more casual capacity InterStellar BBQThis barbecue joint’s success has indeed reached the outer limits of the genre it was one of the first four barbecue restaurants in Texas to ever receive a Michelin Star Aside from the meticulousness needed to make great barbecue InterStellar also presents unexpected offerings like sorghum glazed duck LeRoy and Lewis BarbecueAnother Michelin Star-winner in barbecue LeRoy and Lewis built its legacy not only by perfecting its brisket-smoking technique but by embracing modernity with its non-traditional sides like kimchi A frozen Big Red sangria can round out the meal for a game-changing barbecue experience Nixta TaqueriaNixta Taqueria elevates the concept of counter service with innovative Mexican fare featuring unconventional ingredients The enchilada potosina taco has even won acclaim among Texas Monthly’s 50 Best Tacos in Texas Sweet-toothed Austinites can’t resist Nixta’s refreshing paletas for dessert The CultureMap Tastemaker Awards ceremony is sponsored by The Yuengling Company, Garrison Brothers Distillery, Hornitos, Texas Beef Council, PicMe Events, and more to be announced. A portion of the proceeds benefitsCentral Texas Food Bank The future of electric mobility is taking shape in Martorell and the name everyone should remember is Cupra Raval This vehicle is not just another electric car; it is a promise of transformation and affordability in an increasingly competitive market With production planned to begin in late 2025 the Raval represents the Volkswagen Group’s entry into the small electric car segment a crucial step in bringing electromobility to the masses The announcement of the production of the Cupra Raval is not an isolated event It is part of a broader strategy that the Volkswagen Group has been weaving in Spain Volkswagen unveiled plans to turn this plant into a key facility for electric vehicle production and battery assembly This move includes an investment of 300 million euros to build a 64,000 square meter battery assembly facility It is not only a technological breakthrough but also a strong commitment to the local economy and industry The new battery assembly plant in Martorell which will start operations at the end of 2024 will be essential to ensure that the Cupra Raval and other electric models of the group are competitive not only in technology where the Raval and VW ID.2 will be manufactured will have an initial capacity to assemble 1,400 battery systems per day This production rate will allow Volkswagen to quickly scale up production of the Raval and other small electric models The Cupra Raval is not just a car; it is part of a larger mission has been clear in his vision of “democratizing electric mobility.” This term actually points to a very specific goal: to make electric cars accessible to a larger part of the population with prices that often put them beyond the reach of the majority Griffiths points out that it is the approximate price of the best-selling car in Spain suggesting that the Raval could become a best-seller if it lives up to expectations the Cupra Raval will not only be affordable The Cupra Raval will not be alone in the market Chinese manufacturers have already begun to capitalize on the opportunity presented by small electric cars especially in the highly competitive B segment These manufacturers have managed to offer models at very competitive prices thanks in large part to cost reductions in battery production have faced greater challenges in reducing costs in this segment Volkswagen’s strategy with the Cupra Raval is based on more than just competing on price The Raval is committed to a design that resonates with Barcelona’s urban and rebellious culture This focus on design and cultural identity is a way to differentiate itself in a market where many electric cars tend to look interchangeable For the Cupra Raval and other Volkswagen Group electric models to succeed And this is where the Martorell plant and the battery factory in Sagunt Battery production is one of the most critical factors in the manufacture of electric cars and Volkswagen has made a significant investment to ensure that it can supply the demand that its new models will generate will supply the cells that will be assembled into battery systems in Martorell These systems will be transferred directly to the car assembly lines via a 600-meter conveyor system ensuring an efficient and constant flow of essential components This well-integrated supply chain is crucial to keep costs low and production efficient The development of the Cupra Raval and the expansion of the production infrastructure in Spain are not happening in a vacuum The support of the Spanish government and the European Union is vital for projects like this to succeed VW’s head of brand and member of the Group Management Board pointing out that electromobility is a “central lever” for achieving the goals of the European Green Pact Statements such as these underline the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors in making the transition to electric mobility a reality incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles and policies that promote sustainability are key elements in creating an enabling environment for affordable electric cars The Cupra Raval represents more than just a new electric car model; it is a symbol of what can be achieved when innovation Not only will this car carry the name of an iconic Barcelona neighborhood but it could also become an icon of electric mobility in Spain and beyond Mass production of small electric cars like the Raval has the potential to change the dynamics of the automotive market the Cupra Raval could be the catalyst that finally makes electric mobility a viable option for millions of people with the infrastructure in Spain ready to support this new era the future of electric mobility in the country looks brighter than ever Stock images by Depositphotos La venta de la nuda propiedad Copyright © 2022 Salirporbarcelona , All rights Reserved. Created by JEZZ Media especially when it comes to its food scene three restaurants are opening in and near downtown Austin two serving as second locations of previously existing establishments This restaurant from Chef Laila Bazahm opened May 12 at 1500 S The name comes from a neighborhood in Barcelona where Bazahm once worked at a Southeast Asian-Latin American restaurant El Raval seems to take cues from Bazahm's background with Latin and Spanish food Mother's Day brunches in Austin? Try one of these 9 places to treat mom. “El Raval is a neighborhood that celebrates diversity and cultural exchange," Bazahm said in a statement "The restaurant will reflect the same excitement and be a place where people from all walks of life come together to create something unique and special.” CARVE American GrilleThis grill-centric restaurant with its original location off of Southwest Parkway CARVE Central Austin will open June 12 at 2613 Perseverance Drive in The Grove CARVE "reinvents the American grille experience by carrying on the legacy of the original butcher shop Perry’s father founded in 1979 and utilizing live-fire smoke and wood grilling techniques within its menu." The restaurant is a sister concept to the well-known Perry's Steakhouse & Grille from restauranteur Chris Perry More: Here's how an Austin woman made a business out of a shareable craft room “We’re thankful to the Austin community for frequenting our first location of CARVE American Grille," Perry said in a statement "The initial response to our live-fire approach was overwhelming and we are grateful for the opportunity to expand with a second location so that we can serve more of this welcoming city Our goal is to continue establishing an exceptional dining experience that will have Austinites coming back for more." Wu Chow's new spot will open May 19 at 3800 N The original Austin location sits at 500 W The farm-to-wok menu from executive chef Ji Peng Chen includes classics such as crispy sesame beef The location will also offer exclusive dishes such as "larger-format family-style offerings," according to a press release The restaurant will also feature a new private dining room with a private entrance with 47,000 inhabitants (3% percent of the population of Barcelona) the Braval association has been promoting social cohesion fighting against marginalization and promoting the "social elevator" Braval has had 1,600 participants from 8 to 18 years of age from 30 countries and 10 languages A Braval indoor soccer team in Barcelona's El Raval neighborhood Braval's 6 indoor soccer teams and 6 basketball teams compete in the Barcelona School Sports Council (CEEB) Sports Games with teams from all the neighborhoods of Barcelona considers that participating in a standardized league "favors accommodation and mutual knowledge between natives and immigrants" Braval is an initiative for development and human and social promotion of Opus Dei in the neighborhood of El Raval which for 25 years has been doing more than a grain of sand to facilitate the integration of immigrants into society Because El Raval is dominated by an impoverished middle class with a high number of families at risk of social exclusion And indeed, through the activities and programs The Braval program allows young people to get to know each other respect each other a little more every day a young man from the Philippines who arrived in Barcelona at the age of eight with his parents and came to Braval to play soccer "Thanks to Braval, I am where I am, finishing my degree in Business Administration and Management," says Marc, who speaks of the friends he has made at Braval, after listening to Josep MasabeuThe affective aspect talks about Ramadan: "We have always been curious about how Ramadan is lived I have had Muslim friends who have invited me to be with them for a day It's okay for that guy to invite his friends who are not Muslim." Marc explains that he is Catholic and that his grandparents were Catholic there are 250 participants in the activities and a 90 percent school success rate in ESO (at Braval they offer extracurricular activities and educational reinforcement 160 volunteers of different profiles collaborate with Braval dedicating 15,000 hours a year to helping others we have had 1,010 volunteers," says Josep Masabeu who is proud to have volunteers from the young people who have participated in the programs Another reason to rejoice is that of the 1,600 participants having completed all the legal and administrative procedures "They are citizens committed to the development of our country" Is Braval's influence noticeable over the years Pakistanis and Bangladeshis are the most common nationalities there has been a lot of cleaning of narco-flats A problem that we have had for a long time are the buildings that investment funds buy and do not rehabilitate another factor to take into account is that we have kids the average permanence of the kids in Braval's activities is six years" "We respect all beliefs, but we do not hide our Christian identity. A priest from Santa Maria de Montalegre [church in El Raval, entrusted to Opus Dei in 1967, from whose volunteers Braval's idea came up] Because almost every day is the feast of some religion These are normal conversations among kids.  some journalists and politicians say that religion is a factor of confrontation we have to show that we are all non-denominational this argument means losing many possibilities of help," adds Masabeu These kids have very complicated family situations the percentage of unemployment is very high; their friends are "just as 'quinquis' as they are"; their customs they cannot live their customs here as they did in their country; what do they have left If belief becomes the only identity factor Their only reference ended up being a small piece of their religion which we offer to families when they come every year on the occasion of the centenary of the birth of Saint Josemaría Escrivá Now two boys are being confirmed, and a third is being confirmed and making his First Communion. They are 16 years old, and then a volunteer. "Confirmed on May 31 In Montalegre so everybody will wear the best piercings... "has become a point of analysis on immigration and social cohesion" Subscribe to Omnes magazine and enjoy exclusive content for subscribers The block has a built floor space of 832 square metres and consists of nine homes The other eight homes will be made available with public rents According to the recommendation of specialists from the Municipal Institute for Housing and Renovation (IMHAB) the indoor spaces in the building will be renovated and the distribution of the homes altered with an investment of 1.66 million euros The main façade has no major defects and the rear façade and rooftop were renovated in 2017 The right to first refusal gives the City Council preference in purchasing buildings, enabling public housing to be added in densely populated areas where it is difficult to create new buildings. In the case of the building in C/ Santcliment the purchase price of 800,000 euros is almost 5% below the average price per square metre in this neighbourhood and 23% below the average for Ciutat Vella Already a member? Log in Not a member? Sign up Explore our Food Tours → We’re blessed with a growing multitude of tapas bars whose humble appearances belie the excellent culinary chops behind them The eatery is known mainly because of its location in the heart of Raval the most multicultural neighborhood in Barcelona It sits on a street lined with vintage clothing shops and is outfitted with a cute mini-terrace a small open bar and windows that frame a wall full of colorful graffiti in the passageway adjacent It’s the ideal laid-back setting for us to enjoy a vermut with our elbow on the sill while checking out the intriguing handbags in the shop window in front the smiling French guy who manages the place a Barcelonan originally from Argentina and the mastermind behind its wonderful menu of tapas and platillos it already had more than a hundred years of history behind it as the barrio tapas joint with some minimal updating just to give the place more light and to make the room more comfortable without pretensions and with a clientele of regulars mostly young locals and visitors from abroad Resolís is the perfect after-work meeting place and offers local music acts and art events throughout the month The menu features Mediterranean tapas and inventive small dishes – the platillos – made using fresh ingredients from La Boquería market There are those classics that are pretty much required in every Spanish bar such as the patatas bravas and the Spanish tortilla as well as a variety of interesting seasonal options navigating a sea of Catalan-Spanish tradition but dropping anchor on shores that are Japanese It’s a bright reflection of the neighborhood’s multifaceted character a traditional Catalan-Occitan specialty of salt cod whipped with olive oil to a creamy consistency and served with piquillo (red pepper) sauce; the deeply flavorful langoustine tempura tinted black with squid ink and with saffron allioli (garlic mayonnaise) for dipping; and the meltingly tender and juicy confited lamb with couscous and yogurt sauce made bright with a lashing of citrus Perhaps the most exciting item on the spring menu is the artichokes which are first boiled and then marinated in olive oil with bay leaves and then served with a creamy walnut sauce and a garnish of the chopped nuts It’s this kind of thoughtful cooking and the attention paid to both old and new ways of doing things that make eating in Barcelona so exciting these days Editor’s Note: We are sorry to report that Resolis is closed loading map - please wait...Map could not be loaded - please enable Javascript!→ more information will be serving up its first Christmas Day feast If your ideal Christmas doesn't involve a whole lot of cooking there are several Austin restaurants that are happy to do the work for you this year not only are many restaurants staying open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but they're offering special menus and events Here are our top picks for dining in on Christmas or Christmas Eve — we've split it up by day for easy planning. Plus, stay tuned for a takeout-only list coming soon. For a list of festive bars to be merry at, check here "Nochebuena" at El Raval pays homage to Spain's Christmas Eve festivities and will include three courses.Photo courtesy of Jane Yun (A fee of $25 is charged for reservation cancellations less than 48 hours in advance.) Corner Restaurant at JW Marriott offers a special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menu Personal taste accounts for a lot, but a city's top chefs need to be plugged into the greater community. The Chef of the Year nominees for CultureMap's 2025 Tastemaker Awards all have a strong point of view that both expands on traditional cuisine and points the Austin scene to a well-rounded future Our judges — a panel of past winners and editorial staff — have chosen 10 busy nominees who have carved out special niches for their work and show no signs of slowing down Find out which will be crowned Austin's Chef of the Year this Thursday, May 8, at the 2025 Tastemaker Awards party at Fair Market We’ll dine on bites from this year’s nominated chefs and restaurants and sip specialty cocktails before revealing the winners in our short and sweet ceremony You can meet all of the 2025 Tastemaker nominees in our special editorial series, then be sure to buy your tickets now to see who triumphs let's send our compliments to our nominees for Chef of the Year: Distant RelativesPitmaster Damien Brockway first came to Austin to work for Uchiko in 2012 but his culinary journey led him to open his food truck Brockway draws inspiration from his African heritage for his signature barbecue while focusing on the Austin community by partnering with local farms and organizations Nixta TaqueriaAustin knows how important tacos can be and that's in large part thanks to Edgar Rico Not only does he make excellent tacos using local ingredients he is always representing Mexican cuisine to the masses Sometimes it's as the 2024 Michelin Guide Texas Young Chef Award Winner and sometimes it's as an ambassador for others doing similar work — often both at once LeRoy and Lewis BarbecueChampioning the concept of “new school barbecue” is only one facet of what makes pitmaster Evan LeRoy unlike any other chef in Austin His commitment to sourcing LeRoy and Lewis’ meat from ethically responsible Texas farms and his lifelong passion for barbecue are admirable traits in a high quality chef Suerte/EsteJames Beard Award-winning chef Fermín Núñez has gotten big recognition in recent years but he still maintains a down-to-earth attitude about his rise to fame He keeps his culinary skills fresh through hosting events and (of course) creating new dishes with exciting flavors Dai DueChef and hunter Jesse Griffiths is taking Texas cooking into the future while bringing sourcing back to its roots Griffiths won a James Beard Award for his cookbook on wild Texas hogs and followed up in 2024 with a book on wild turkey Wild game certainly isn't new for Texans but Griffiths has elevated it in gourmet dishes and invited urban Austinites back into the conversation Kareem El-Ghayesh got right into the spirit of Texas barbecue when visiting in 2012 His unexpected background contributed to a unique personal style highlighting ingredients like pomegranate seeds and lamb It looks like El-Gahyesh's career change unlocked some strong charisma El RavalPhilippines-born chef Laila Bazahm at once saved a pocket of Spanish culture in South Austin and updated it with her own worldly experience Having cooked in Barcelona with ingredients from nearby ethnic grocery stores she was well-prepared to continue seeking the unexpected here Bazam's collaborative attitude constantly brings fresh life to El Raval HolidayL'Oca D'Oro alum and “Pasta King” Peter Klein is an East Coast native who has been capturing the hearts of Italian-food-loving Austinites for a decade Opening Holiday alongside Erin Ashford and John DiCicco in 2023 served as a milestone for the trio who have found a coveted balance between impeccable dining and a welcoming neighborhood hang Store House Market & EateryWhen Sonya Coté moved east to Bastrop she could have become disconnected from Austin Now that she has the space to make true farm-to-table dining happen advocating for sustainability with the James Beard Foundation's policy team hosting chefs and musicians on her home turf CanjeTavel Bristol-Joseph is a busy man with an important new venture in San Antonio but we would be remiss to not recognize his work with Austin’s popular Caribbean restaurant Canje Whether he’s working behind the scenes in the kitchen or hopping in front of the camera to share his culinary inspirations this esteemed chef is making waves in the dining scene in Austin — and statewide Peter Klein is a nominee for Chef of the Year Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Barcelona Some of its gems have been around for years - Gaudí's medievalist Palau Güell was an early attempt at gentrification But others are newer: the revival began in 1995 with Richard Meier's monumental MACBA housing the city's main collection of modern art and carried on in 2008 with the futuristic Barceló hotel Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! facebooktwitterspotifytiktokAbout us Contact us Time Out Worldwide One of the leading lights of Austin’s contemporary culinary scene has taken a siesta After a decade of running Barlata at 1500 S turning over the reigns of contemporary Spanish cuisine to former Eberly executive chef Laila Bazahm a tribute to the namesake Barcelona neighborhood She became enchanted with the area while helming celebrated Southeast Asian-Latin American restaurant Hawker 45 with her wife The culturally diverse district’s Carrer de Joaquín Costa was dotted with international groceries providing crucial ingredients and a homesickness cure for the Philippines-born chef “El Raval is a neighborhood that celebrates diversity and cultural exchange The different languages spoken on the streets the various festivals celebrated throughout the year and the wide range of cuisines available all speak to its richness and complexity,” said Bazahm via release Though Spanish cuisine will be at the forefront of El Raval the restaurant will reflect Bazahm’s globetrotting palate The menu is organized into blocks devoted to the sea Offerings range from traditional tapas like gambas al ajillo (red shrimp and sherry to original creations like braised local lamb breast in the style of kongsha mangsho (a Bengali mutton curry) The Para Compartir (“to share”) section showcases bountifully portioned dishes Highlights include squid ink rice topped with a cuttlefish ‘nduja relish and sea urchin slow-cooked short rib served with a Catalan beef stew reduction and grilled chicken accompanied with carrots vadouvan (a French colonial derivative of Indian masala) El Raval will also feature a dynamic bar menu developed by Bazahm’s pals named in 2022 to the World’s 50 Best Bars list helped transform the once gritty area into one of Barcelona’s most exhilarating nightlife scenes Starting May 12, El Raval will welcome guests Sunday - Thursday, 4-10 pm, and Friday and Saturday, 4-10 pm. At press time, a handful of reservations were still available for opening weekend El Raval will feature contemporary Spanish fare with global flavor profiles Our judges — a panel of past winners and editorial staff — have chosen 10 busy nominees who have carved out special niches for their work and slow no signs of slowing down Find out which nominee wins Chef of the Year on May 8 at the 2025 Tastemaker Awards party at Fair Market HolidayL'Oca D'Oro alum and “Pasta King” Peter Klein is an East Coast native who has been capturing the hearts of Italian food-loving Austinites for a decade this esteemed chef is making waves in the Austin (and statewide) dining scene El Raval opened in the former Barlata space May 12 Best Coffee Shops in San Antonio The Best New Restaurants in Austin, May 2025 The Best Restaurants in Austin for Private Dining, Events, and Parties from pani puri to paella to chicken/rice/broth to the perfect chicken panino As editors of Eater Austin, people often ask us (aka Nadia Chaudhury and Erin Russell) where we’ve been eating in the city. We share these answers with our semi-regular series dubbed Something for the Weekend we collect our absolute favorite bites and drinks of the year and put them into a handy map The 2023 edition includes Indian street food from food truck Bombay Street Food in North Austin Spanish tapas and paella from El Raval on South Lamar Along those lines, elsewhere Eater Austin is looking back at 2023’s dining year, including best restaurant meals and saddest closures Before seeing a movie up in far-from-us North Austin we decided to grab food from the Indian chaat truck which was wonderful crispy bursting round bites; the vada pav which was so spicy without the thoughtful addition of fresh green chiles; and the ragda pattice essentially a potato patty with chickpeas and sev drenched in chutneys in a soup-like format Everything was rounded out by a steaming hot cup of chai Everything was so wonderful and flavorful and I need to go back to try the rest of the wide menu Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are outdoor dine-in tables A post shared by PalateTicklers (@palateticklers) The Best South Asian Restaurants in Austin I had the opportunity to check out Ramen Del Barrio during a preview test and My party ordered all three of the yaki-tacos and the skewered meats were so tender and juicy perfectly blanketed by the soft corn tortillas where the thick ramen noodles were served separately from the rich and spicy bowl of soupy mole with thick chunks of chicken karaage and it is hands down one of the best things I’ve eaten this year and in a long time the lime squeeze adds a nice bit of acid to the dish it worked wonderfully for leftovers the next day Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor dine-in areas —Nadia Chaudhury A post shared by Ramen del Barrio (@ramen_del_barrio) Every Single Eater Austin Eater Award Winner A post shared by P Thai’s Khao Man Gai (@pthaiatx) A post shared by Choo Sando • Omakase (@choo_sando_omakase) Where to Eat and Drink in Rosedale in Austin A post shared by Eats in Austin, Texas (@luckyfatima) The Best Austin Restaurants Open on a Monday I fully admit I am an ice cream fiend but I have been mostly saved from gluttony by not having any shops within walking distance of my house conveniently located just a block away from the swimming pool at Shipe Park There are indulgent flavors like chocolate and honey almond but there are also bright fruit flavors like blackberry chip and kibana (kiwi and banana gelato — the kiwi’s sharpness is made mellow and creamy with the banana) Gelatoro also has coffee drinks so it’s very possible I will be posted there from morning through the afternoon Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas A post shared by Gelatoro | Gelato & Coffee & Bakery (@gelatoroatx) Fall means French food for me personally, so I was very excited to check out the new restaurant from Jo Chan My personal highlights included the pommes dauphine The somehow light and fluffy potato croquettes were topped with dollops of creme fraiche and trout roe And then the duck leg cassoulet is just one of the warmest richest dishes I’ve had in a long time especially being able to buy a book at First Light beforehand and browsing and buying random cheeses and canned coffees at Tiny Grocer after our dinner There are indoor and outdoor dine-in services A post shared by Bureau de Poste at Tiny Grocer (@bureaudeposteatx) Where to Find Delectable French Food in Austin A post shared by Soup Peddler (@souppeddler) A post shared by Vaquero Taquero (@vaquerotaquero) Everyone knows I’m a huge fan of Cookie Rich so I couldn’t wait to try the team’s savory food as well Goldy’s is a great spot for lunch — Littlefield’s is surprisingly cool and pleasant I loved the chicken panino (I will love most sandwiches on focaccia) and the melon salad but my absolute favorite item was the ham and cheese roll Made in the style of a cinnamon roll but with savory ingredients the soft roll is spiked with salty ham and cheese I tried it after I’d already had a panino and still had to eat the whole thing Takeout orders can be placed in person; there are outdoor dine-in areas A post shared by Littlefield’s Tacos + Coffee (@littlefieldsatx) I am a big fan of Birdie’s normally, but this is the first time I’ve tried their Italian-American pop-up four (filling!) courses for $65 is a pretty good deal for Austin these days and from the second you walk into the transformed restaurant — complete with red-and-white checked tablecloths and vintage bottles of Chianti as vases — you’ll get the vibe The main course of fusilli alla vodka is transcendent I honestly wish it came in a vat-sized to-go container you have the opportunity to end your meal with that perfect vanilla soft-serve — and what could be better A post shared by Birdie’s (@birdiesaustin) The Best Restaurant and Bar Patios in Austin Looking for great coffee and/or tacos while surrounded by holiday decor That’s what awaits you at Cosmic Saltillo right now It’s a great spot to enjoy the gorgeous weather I loved the tender arrachera steak on great corn tortillas and my frozen strawberry hibiscus agua fresca with a tajín rim had everyone at the table jealous There are indoor and outdoor dine-in areas A post shared by Cosmic Saltillo (@cosmicsaltillo) A post shared by Palm Pizza ATX (@palmpizzaatx) A post shared by Soto South Lamar (@soto_restaurant_atx) The Best South Lamar Restaurants and Bars in Austin Odd Duck has been around for over a decade and it is still turning out creative flavors not seen anywhere else (quite frankly, every time I visit, I think Bryce Gilmore has been robbed by the James Beard Foundation — seven times) what else could you possibly want from a restaurant: the servers are knowledgable pros ready to accommodate any allergy My favorites from a recent trip were broccoli with mole spice and apple gastrique (truly I wish to meet the wizard who dreamed up that flavor combination) and a sunchoke cacio e pepe with carrot salsa macha I also enjoyed watching each diner at the bar successively order the excellent cornbread A post shared by Odd Duck (@oddduckaustin) For a dinner out, we decided to check out the new Israeli restaurant under the Emmer & Rye umbrella. During this very, very, very hot heat we ordered a bunch of vegetable and fruit-based dishes The spring tomato comes with a delightful acidy mess of tomatoes of all shapes and sizes that are either plain plus big chunks of urfa-spiced crotons and this nice refreshing fill vinaigrette I wanted to drink up the resulting broth honestly which came on top of this bed of fantastic smoky labne (which is really another one of those excellent hot weather foods) and this nice pickled mango sauce It was exactly what I needed to eat this Texas summer A post shared by Ezov (@ezovatx) We went to the former Barlata-now El Raval under new owner and chef Laila Bazahm There’s an upbeat vibe to the menu and space the red snapper ceviche with leche de tigre and corn puffs was texturally fun and I could’ve drank up the juices; the setas al carbon with savory mushrooms mixed with a very runny cured egg yolk and sunchoke-miso hummus was great especially when paired with the flaky paratha; and especially the paella with squid ink and fantastic plops of uni for this salty touch The accompanying cocktails were amazing too especially the frothy Tangier Fizz with white chocolate and yogurt (!!!) with citrus and mint flavors I want to explore the rest of the menu ASAP A post shared by El Raval (@elravaltx) After hearing Underdog co-owner Richard Hargreave talk up the ebi burger at his and Claudia Lee’s new restaurant The patty consists of shrimp chunks formed into a loose-yet-intact disc in between a really nice fluffy bun topped with black sesame seeds It’s a nice little dish where the shrimp flavor shines in a bright way What made the burger even better was the glass of champagne I had We also ordered the caviar set and I was particularly taken with the little pandan pancakes which went great with the caviar and this pink peppercorn sauce A post shared by Underdog ATX (@underdog_atx) The Best Happy Hours in Austin for Affordable Drinks and Eats A friend and I wanted an easy hang and I know she had been to the South Austin Irish bar a bunch of times, so we decided to go there again. We headed straight to the back bar (her favorite spot), grabbed bar stools, and placed our orders. Again, because it was an Irish pub, I went for the fish and chips and pints of Smithwick’s Ales (sorry The food was classically prepared and just want I wanted The large strips of fish had a crispy exterior and tender meat inside Plus it came with a little bowl of mushy peas which was delightful and I could’ve eaten a larger portion of We were surrounded by solo diners and groups of people catching up filling meal (perfect for someone who was about to travel a bunch) and I can’t wait to go back and try out the rest of the menu A post shared by @codyreigle I’ve already sung my praises for croissant sandwiches so when I saw that this farmers market stand-turned-deli offered focaccia sandwiches We ordered the spicy turkey sandwich and the kimchi tuna melt The turkey one was actually really spicy in a good way; the kimchi in the tuna melt added a nice sourness The bread itself was springy and worked well for sandwich purposes We ended the meal with a delightful rugleach too A post shared by CASPER FERMENTABLES (@casperfermentables) Where to Find the Greatest Sandwiches in Austin Everybody knows that the actual best tacos can be found at your nearest taco truck After a lengthy trip home for most of July So for dinner that day we ordered tacos from Taqueria Peloncitos a little truck parked at the Chevron gas station I have generally shared my deep love for barbacoa tacos and the truck’s version is so tender and moist with a nice balance of fattiness and meats A post shared by What’s for Lunch? | NYC & More (@dailylunchsnaps) Neighbourhood groups want more action from police and politicians to shut down apartments The heroin dealers of El Raval do not discriminate and nor does their product “We’ve seen executives in suits and ties arrive by taxi at six in the morning, couples, pregnant women, people with every type of disability, teenagers,” says Carlos, a resident of the central Barcelona district Carlos – no one round here offers their surname – is the spokesman of the Robadors-Picalquers-Roig neighbourhood association named after three of the El Raval streets where narcopisos The empty properties, many of which are owned by banks and investment funds following Spain’s property crash serve as distribution-points-cum-shooting galleries; places where people come to buy Three decades after the drugs epidemic that ravaged Spain in the 1980s the proliferation of narcopisos in Barcelona Seville and Valencia is a reminder that heroin is far from gone – even if times have changed dealers use apps to help customers find the flats where drugs are available They also tie coloured cloths to balconies to signal availability: white for heroin available blue meaning they are under police surveillance At the end of February, neighbourhood groups across Spain came together to form the National Network of Cities and Neighbourhoods affected by Narcopisos which aims to raise awareness of the problem and work with police and politicians to shut the flats down “If there’s a narcopiso in your building people come and buy at all hours people asleep on the stairs and in the doorway,” says Carlos can be heard at five o’clock in the morning Before it was closed down by the city council the big narcopiso in Carrer d’en Roig was receiving up to 150 clients an hour The heroin is cheap (around €10 a hit) but of poor quality “How can you explain to your children when you take them to school in the morning why there is someone lying unconscious in the street with a needle stuck in their vein?” asks Naiara who set up a group in her area of El Raval after addicts armed with iron bars staged a pitched battle in her street she and her neighbours started beating their pots and pans in a traditional cacerolada protest had the plug pulled during the economic crisis​Jorge NacarinoThe clattering of cookware has also echoed around parts of Madrid residents of the working-class Puente de Vallecas neighbourhood held a cacerolada followed by a demonstration of 1,500 locals and chair of the Puente de Vallecas residents’ association estimates that 20 of the area’s 34 or so narcopisos have been shut down by police since November He points to the homemade sign on the barred window of what was Nacarino attributes the increase in heroin users in the area to the demolition last year of part of the notorious Cañada Real shanty town on the outskirts of Madrid but he says there are other factors also at play “You have to ask yourself what’s happened to all the preventative resources that existed in Madrid They basically had the plug pulled during the economic crisis because there’d been a big drop in consumption.” He also points to the thousands of people who lost their homes during the crisis and the financial institutions that took them on “Either because they’re speculating – or because they’re banks and property isn’t their business – they don’t pay much attention to looking for a solution,” he says remembers playing on the streets of Puente de Vallecas as a child He also remembers his parents telling him which parks and streets to avoid because of the addicts and dirty syringes “We’re still pretty far from that situation,” he says “But it is true that we’re seeing some things now that we haven’t seen for a long time.” Barcelona’s city council has spent €500,000 on securing properties in Raval and cleaning up the area but they have limited powers and the dealers are much more agile than the courts and the police The private flat owners support the residents’ campaign but the hedge funds and banks are less responsive denied turning a blind eye to the problem at a meeting in February attended by residents’ associations “We are treating this as a priority,” she said “We are contacting all the owners of empty flats to persuade them to offer them as public housing.” Despite the dark mutterings about a return to the 1980s the authorities dismiss suggestions that another heroin epidemic is beginning to take hold Spain’s national police say they are doing what they have always done: gathering evidence so they can get the judicial authorisation needed to go into the narcopisos and shut them down “It’s a phenomenon that’s always existed; there have always been places where people deal just as there are in all countries,” one police source said “I don’t see a heroin problem on the streets today that’s anything like the way it was in the 80s.” But the fact that things aren’t as bad as they once were is little comfort to Carlos and his neighbours is that some people have never had much interest in what happens in the poorer parts of town “But we’re not all junkies and prostitutes; all kinds of people live here A councillor told me she wasn’t comfortable with what we’re doing Founder Daniel Olivella is moving back to Spain and chef Laila Bazahm is taking over the spot for her new restaurant El Raval If you buy something from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy She also cooked a tapas dinner at the luxury camping space Walden Retreat in March has been updated to include El Raval’s actual opening date These festivities of the most bohemian and multicultural neighborhood of Barcelona offer attendees activities of all kinds and for all ages: concerts La Rambla del Raval is one of the focal points of the festival with numerous activities during the day and night but the Festa Major del Raval extends to other streets This year's Festa Major del Raval will offer a vibrant mix of culture visitors will be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities and shows in different parts of the neighborhood The event begins at 7:30 pm at Plaza Vicenç Martorell with the "Tarde del Pregón y Pasacalles" Here you can enjoy a lively parade and the proclamation of the Festival by Janet Merida spokesperson for the association Putas Libertarias del Raval The evening will culminate with a concert and dance by the Raval's Band Saturday starts with family activities from 12:00 h to 14:00 h with "Oyayi in Fiesta Mayor: Mabuhay Concert Night" at Plaza Castella The day will continue with the "Fiesta Mayor Flamenca" at the Calle d'en Robador from 4:30 pm to 3:00 pm the Plaza Gardunya will be the starting point for the parade of giants and the plantada of giants The afternoon continues with the parade of festive imagery and the Diada Bastonera which will tour several streets of the Raval the Plaza de la Gardunya will host the Diada Castellera The night will be enlivened with a popular botifarrada from 9:00 pm to 00:00 am The Ameba Parkfest will return to Plaza Terenci Moix from 19:00 h to 2:00 h while the special FLEASTOCK '24 Flea Market will take place in the Tarongers Garden from 18:30 h to 3:00 h The day will conclude with Freedonia at the Fiesta Mayor in Plaza Folch i Torres from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am The last day of the Fiesta Mayor begins at 12:00 h with a floral offering to the Virgen del Carmen in the Church of Carmen a drum route that will start from the Plaza Pedró and continue through several streets of the neighborhood This route will be linked to the "Correfoc" a fire and pyrotechnics show that promises to be one of the most exciting moments of the festival the Plaza Sant Agustí will be the scene of the Habaneras from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm putting the finishing touch to this celebration The Raval Festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this emblematic neighborhood of Barcelona The Raval Festival not only promises to be a celebration full of music but also an opportunity to explore the most emblematic cultural spaces of the neighborhood Here are some of the most outstanding activities you can enjoy during these festive days: Liceu: Immerse yourself in the history and majesty of the Gran Teatre del Liceu with guided tours on Thursday Don't forget to reserve your place by consulting the program Enjoy this fascinating exhibition on Friday July 12 in Catalan (from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm) Saturday July 13 in Spanish (from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm) and Sunday July 14 again in Catalan (from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm) Filmoteca: Celebrate the 12th anniversary of the Filmoteca in the Raval with a series of special screenings Check the program for details of the films to be screened Museu Marítim: On Sunday, July 14, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, visit the Maritime Museum and discover some of its impressive ships An ideal experience for lovers of the sea and sailing Centre d'Art Santa Mònica: On July 13 and 14 at 12:00 h you can enjoy guided tours of the exhibition "Time Machines Redrawing the past and fabulating the future in prison" MACBA: The Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona will open its doors on July 12 13 and 14 so that visitors can explore its collections without prior reservation Visits to the Neighborhood Churches: Several churches in the Raval will offer guided tours giving you the opportunity to learn about their architecture and history in detail Program (PDF) Chefs and dedicated diners throughout Barcelona are thrilled to proclaim “Bar 68 is reborn!” For more than 10 years this well-known and well-worn dive bar has served locals and travelers alike the old favorite has been refreshed with new staff an appealing new menu and some of the best cocktails in the city which diverges off the tourist-trod Las Ramblas and brings pedestrians into El Raval Getting to Bar 68 is a journey in and of itself Lined with countless used mobile phone shops classic lunch counters and the hip Filmoteca cinematography archive of Barcelona the raucous street eventually skirts the bottom of the ample Rambla del Raval before eventually spitting you out by the base of the post-industrial Avinguda del Paral·lel El Raval is the most ethnically diverse section of the Ciutat Vella (Old City) of Barcelona and the menu at the retooled Bar 68 captures deliciously the barri’s centuries-old history as a magnet for working-class and immigrant communities one-of-a-kind photo triptych by Turner Prize-winning photographer Douglas Gordon hanging in the dining room to the vintage the restaurant is marked by little touches of each stakeholder’s past spiced with a bracing dose of the originality required for a new establishment to stand out from the crowd After seven years of cooking experience in the San Francisco Bay Area followed by a year in Japan and six and a half years in Barcelona (two spent at Albert Adrià’s famed 41 Degrees) is casting his wide net of experience over the vibrant energy of the neighborhood He and his equally diverse team have crafted a menu that melds Latino the latter influence surely coming from the restaurant’s owners these Venetian twins have been steadily making their mark as a formidable duo in Barcelona starting with the conceptualizing of their flagship restaurant Xemei (“Twins” in the Venetian dialect) at the top of Barcelona’s Poble Sec neighborhood “The original idea for Bar 68,” says Jacobs “was to build everything around the cocktails We started with small bites of food to go with the drinks but quickly evolved into having much more substantial food offerings.” Jacobs’s love for the food trends of San Francisco (especially modern Asian cuisine) is right at home in the neighborhood that was known for decades as the Barrio Chino (Chinatown) of Barcelona this is not to say that Bar 68 is simply another establishment jumping on the “fusion” bandwagon More telling is its reputation as a place where “industry people” go to eat No one appreciates a jolt to his or her taste buds and a well-made cocktail served with style Nothing beats bringing a stress-filled evening shift to a tipsy close over delicious spicy crunchy and tender treats while talking shop with people who know what it’s like in the trenches of a professional kitchen blending house-made ingredients in singular The list of standard and offbeat offerings is constantly evolving as Miguel and his bar staff experiment with new infusions the “Moscow Mule,” but Bar 68’s spin beats all other versions we’ve sipped due to Miguel’s spicy winter or summer this cocktail is an instantly refreshing crowd pleaser At the far end of the eccentricity spectrum is the “Maryland Sour,” hop-infused vodka with elderflower liqueur The menu at Bar 68 features small (one- or two-bite) tapas You could spend anywhere from €15 to €70 on your meal but the average tab is around €30 for a nice cocktail and a few plates Jacobs’s eclectic offerings include crispy Indian samosas of hake potato and harissa curry with mango-tamarind chutney; braised pork belly yakitori with Chinese five-spice and scallions; beef tongue tacos with Italian salsa verde and radish; smoked deviled eggs dyed with beet juice and spiked with sriracha; grilled octopus with black garlic sesame and house-made kimchi; and whole steamed dorado (gilt-head bream) de-boned and served in a broth of coconut milk Bar 68 also offers a €68 tasting menu that includes both regularly offered and newly conjured dishes cocktails or mezcal with a mandarin-lemon verbena water chaser) but if you’re game for a restaurant that nicely sums up the energy and evolutionary style of Barcelona’s next-generation food culture we suggest you put yourself in the experienced hands of the Bar 68 crew and join the experiment The Local Europe ABVästmannagatan 43113 25 StockholmSweden There are a number of studies ranking the world's safest and most peaceful countries Spain generally performs well whatever the criteria In recent rankings cited by Forbes magazine Spain came out as the sixth-safest country in Europe and the 29th-safest on the planet according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) The Spain Convention Bureau claims that Spain has the 4th safest country in the European Union Spain also generally has one of the lowest murder rates on the continent There are of course many ways of judging how safe a country is whether it be assessing the threat of aggression or sexual violence when it comes to non-violent theft such as pickpocketing Spain tends to have rates of delinquency above the EU average Inequality is also on the up in Spain and the latest Eurostat data shows that the country has the highest levels of poverty and social exclusion in Western Europe which tends to result in an increase in crime Although there are no official studies ranking the safety of different neighbourhoods in Spain there are certain barrios which over the years have built up a reputation among Spaniards for being more prone to poverty and crime feature in investigative TV reports and come up in conversation among Spaniards who warn against going there This does not mean that you should not visit these neighbourhoods or that all their residents are involved in illicit affairs many of these hard-working communities are in desperate need of better municipal provisions and opportunities and feel like only the bad side of their neighbourhoods is depicted in the media We’ve put together this list as an informative piece for foreigners to be aware of the fact that there are parts of Spain where delinquency drug use and violence are renowned for being more common and to therefore decide for themselves if they want to visit The videos that accompany each section include interviews with residents of these barrios who offer their own opinion of what's happening in their neighbourhoods La Cañada Real is a 15km-long shanty town that stretches along the M-50 motorway from Cañada de Coslada all the way to the border between Madrid and Getafe It is Europe's biggest shanty town and its 9,000 residents have not had electricity for more than two years It is also renowned for being where a large part of Madrid’s drug trade is concentrated and violence and gun trafficking are also reportedly common in the neighbourhood Though Madrid is not a particularly dangerous city the crime rate in Cañada Real is above average Cañada Real’s crime rate is underpinned by severe poverty Apart from most residents living without electricity many of their homes are haphazard constructions put together by with scrap materials Sector 6 is known as the most dangerous part of Cañada Real Lo Campano neighbourhood in the coastal city of Cartagena has developed a reputation over the decades Detached from central Cartagena with poor transport links and high levels of pollution Lo Campano is an isolated pocket that is considered the ‘drug supermarket’ of the Levant area It was created in the 1950s to relocate locals displaced by floods in Cuevas del Tajo and the buildings have slowly degraded since then There are high levels of poverty in the area and it is estimated that there are about 1,500 residents Palma-Palmilla has the highest crime rates in the city rampant drug trafficking and shootouts between gangs vying for territory Palma-Palmilla might be one to avoid if you’re visiting Malaga Palma-Palmilla was quickly constructed in the 1960’s to house people that had been in living in the city’s shantytowns Unfortunately it couldn’t stop the neighbourhood becoming one of the poorest and most dangerous in Spain you might’ve heard of Las Tres Mil Viviendas (the three thousand homes the area to the south of Seville is effectively a slum that contains six parts of the ‘Polígono Sur’ neighbourhood and like most of the neighbourhoods on this list is separated not only geographically from the city centre but also in terms of resources There is high-unemployment and crime rates drug trafficking is common - particularly growing and distributing marijuana - and gang violence in the streets is not uncommon is an infamous neighbourhood between Barcelona and Sant Adrià de Besòs where one of Spain’s most infamous criminals La Mina’s tall tower blocks quickly attracted drugs Police regularly carry out operations in the area to try and put a dent in the Catalan capital’s drug trade El Raval is different to other neighbourhoods on this list in that it is in the city centre Part of Barcelona’s ‘Ciutat Vella’ (old town) El Raval sits next to two of Barcelona’s busiest - and most touristy - parts of town: the port Just mere metres away from Barcelona’s tourist hotspots El Raval neighbourhood has been ravaged by crime Barcelona is known as the pickpocket capital of Spain so if you’re there on holiday and just keep in mind that one of Spain’s most notorious neighbourhoods is just a few streets away READ ALSO: How Barcelona is once again Spain’s pickpocket capital one of Spain’s two North-African territories the neighbourhood suffers from serious public health problems poor power supply and hygiene conditions - including piles of uncollected rubbish on the streets - and a lack of basic resources With very high rates of unemployment (as high as 90 percent in recent years) and school dropout statistics this Ceuta neighbourhood has become a breeding ground for crime in particular the drug trafficking trade as Ceuta is one of Africa’s two land borders with Europe El Cabanyal is Valencia’s only real neighbourhood that can claim to be on the beach front It is also known for being its most dangerous El Cabanyal became the home of people relocating from shantytowns and there is a strong police presence in the area El Cabanyal is adjacent to one of Valencia’s key tourist hubs Due to its coastal location and several photographic streets with colonial architecture many tourists who visit La Malvarrosa beach are unaware when walking around El Cabanyal and they are advised to keep their wits about them a bit Please log in here to leave a comment Pedestrians from all around the globe roam this way and that from when those working in the world's oldest profession could do as they pleased without being hassled With the remodelling of La Rambla del Raval as well as the Barceló Hotel being built smack on it and the Filmoteca relocating into the neighbourhood that old network of bordellos and crazy brothels saw its end.At C/ Robador 29 Bar Alegría is like a living photo from 25 or 30 years ago: a tiny locale where two colours dominate: red behind the bar and white on the curved walls that seem to camouflage you if you lean against them look to the sofa on your left where the owner tends to sit with her eye on the door – a habit left over from a barrio that ceased to exist three years ago.Step up to the bar with the other thirsty patrons and order a small bottle of beer for €1.50 or a rum and coke for €5 Next to the long bar sits a jukebox with a sensational selection of rancheras reggaeton – all types of Spanish and Latin music This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page The 38 Best Restaurants in Rome, Italy The 18 Best Louisville Restaurants The 38 Best Restaurants in Mexico City With the state of tourism fundamentally altered the picturesque heart of Barcelona tourism has changed too — and even become more exciting in some ways Most trips to Barcelona start with a visit to the Old City — “Ciutat Vella” in Catalan The historic center is home to the area’s main tourist attractions like La Rambla shaded alleyways and medieval architecture that many foreigners associate with the Catalan capital these very charms and the tourists they would draw had begun to keep away many actual Catalonians for fear of succumbing to the sea of T-shirt shops Savvier travelers were already spending more time in the northern neighborhood of Gràcia — and then came the COVID-19 pandemic which predictably hit the Old City hardest of all Visitors disappeared overnight and left an eerie quiet Barcelona’s renewed enthusiasm for much-missed visitors and the closure of many eyesore for-tourists-only places has once again refreshed the Old City’s status as an absolute These rambling passages boast a uniquely quirky mashup of family-owned businesses that have been passed on from generation to generation and of course loads of memorable places to eat and drink Locals think of the Old City as containing three distinct neighborhoods: the Gothic Quarter where Barcelona as we now know it began to unfold in 230 BCE; El Born with a comparatively high concentration of good spots for eating and drinking in the Old City; and El Raval where some of the streets and buildings date back to the 12th century has a high concentration of architectural gems: the remains of the Roman walls; the stunning Cathedral of Barcelona its facade teeming with sculptures and buttresses; and the Plaça del Rei a reminder of Barcelona’s medieval wealth and splendor there’s a lot of stuff less rooted in local history to be found here — things like toddler flamenco dresses The larger streets still have some remnants of the large tourist targeted laminated menus But take a turn onto a quiet square like Placeta de Manuel Ribé swirl your vermouth so that the large ice cubes clink — and you won’t want to be anywhere else the tree-lined Passeig del Born used to host jousting matches and was once home to the city’s largest fruit-and-vegetable wholesale market which is now the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria The Passeig del Born leads up to the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar an example of Catalan Gothic architecture (identifiable by its hexagonal belfries and lack of flying buttresses) built with stones from the quarries of Montjuïc by the merchants that once lived here Much of the neighborhood is pedestrian-only and some of the cafes and restaurants offer outdoor seating which can be fully enjoyed without the interruption of car traffic the majority are small and independently owned Once known as a dangerous part of town for tourists these days El Raval is finally gaining appreciation thanks in part to its status as one of the most culturally diverse areas of the city and third-wave coffee shrine all inhabit the same block This is where you’ll find hard-to-source ingredients like frozen curry leaves or Moroccan preserved lemons beneath balconies heavy with colorful laundry and dangling plants is a guide to making the most of each distinctly delicious neighborhood Suzy Taher is a Barcelona-based writer and founder of the blog Foodie in Barcelona Take a breath and step off the street and into this green oasis A gravel-filled courtyard is shaded by ancient trees surrounding a water feature that looks like a large meteor covered in green moss and the soundtrack is wood pigeons serenading each other under the trickling fountain And that’s just one of the beguiling spaces here a popular quick snack of ham and cheese on toasted Barcelona only discovered brunch within the last decade a number of places are vying to be the top spot Caravelle was one of the first and maintains its elite status because the Australian chef-owner and burgers make an appearance from lunchtime onward A post shared by Caravelle Restaurant (@caravelle31) When you want a break from Spanish and Catalan fare try a burger joint with a good pulled-pork sandwich They care about sourcing and making things from scratch The fries with cheese and bacon might make you forget all about your burger; it’s hard to stop picking at them A post shared by Chivuo’s American Specialties (@chivuos) quirkier offshoot of the much-lauded Xemei in Poble Sec on one of the side streets that leads to la Boqueria but there is more than enough creativity coming out of this Italian kitchen to make up for it like tender homemade gnocchi with wild asparagus smothered in shaved katsuobushi A post shared by BACARO BARCELONA Italiano (@bacarobcn) as well as some top bars to eat in among the stalls but there are some good hacks for getting the most out of a trip Go early in the morning to avoid the tourists or approach it from the back to find the most interesting stands A telltale sign that this is still a locals’ market are the netted bags of snails sold at poultry stalls identifiable by its wrap-around yellow slates at the top of the stall and fried egg logo Quim has all the classics and some specials like chipirones (small squid) with a fried egg or saffron milk cap mushrooms that bleed blue in season When everything was shut down during Spain’s brutal first COVID-19 wave Quim Márquez was one of the chefs who stepped up to cook for Barcelona residents who needed a meal — that’s reason enough to pull up a stool The freshest news from the food world every day This tiny fusion restaurant flanks La Boqueria, from which it sources its ingredients daily. The door practically brushes diners’ backs when it opens; that there are just eight seats wrapped around a kitchen bar hasn’t stopped this place from gathering accolades, starting with a 2018 Chef of the Year designation for Arnau Muñío from the Fòrum Gastrònomic Girona The matcha cheesecake will ruin all forerunners: The size and shape of a small Camembert with a generous layer of matcha powder on top spooning into it will release a glossy ooze of white just like when you score a perfectly ripe specimen — except this one is sweet and inexplicably light opened and run by Manolo and Mari from Sevilla serves the most-refined tapas you will ever eat high-collared white jackets serve from behind the large bar Dishes are an education in the best of Catalan produce or clams so fresh they spit water at each other in the refrigerated display Though the bar is the best seat in the house A Japanese restaurant with a robata as its focus pairs excellent local products such as vibrant red shrimp from Palamós encased in coarse salt with a lick of heat from the grill looking into the kitchen or across from other diners and then let yourself be guided by what you see being cooked in the kitchen although the eggplant with miso shouldn’t be missed A post shared by Laura Climent (@lauracliment) all the better to look out onto the quiet Placeta de Manuel Ribé there is a constant play of light and shadow between the abundant plants and the sun streaming in Cafe tables paired with iconic bentwood chairs make the whole affair feel Parisian which is filled with food in the Ottolenghi mold like eggplant drizzled with tahini and scattered pomegranate A post shared by Levante (@bistrotlevante) A beautiful modernist-style restaurant you will fall in love with The open kitchen serves up Catalan and Spanish classics large hollow noodles filled with shredded meat and topped with bechamel A post shared by Grill Room Bar Thonet (@grillroom_barthonet) old-fashioned restaurant inside the Santa Caterina market in nearby La Ribera appeals to locals for its well-priced The ceramic trays displaying cooked snails or white beans and pork sausages are indicative of what’s on offer: hearty fare a house specialty of beef head and feet cooked long and slow Breakfast here is the best as they specialize in the local Catalan “esmorzar de forquilla,” literally a breakfast you have to eat with a fork try one of their many tortilla francesas (fried potato omelets) served on bread A post shared by BAR JOAN (@bar_joanbcn) A Catalan market restaurant that liberally uses French cooking techniques from a Venezuelan chef who’s done the rounds at some of the best kitchens in Barcelona a rice dish with botifarra comes with a shallow layer of rice so that there is abundant “socarrat,” the much-coveted crispy rice that forms around the edges of the pan A post shared by Capet restaurant (@capetrestaurant) the wine bar Can Cisa emphasizes natural wines Bar Brutal opens in the afternoons and evenings with a sharing-plate menu that uses lots of fish and local produce Here you’ll find edgy preparations like the tuna heart with beetroot and raspberry as well as familiar dishes like monkfish paired with white asparagus A post shared by (@xemeibcn) This is the Barcelona outpost of a Madrid collaboration between three chefs with distinct backgrounds who all worked in the kitchens of El Bulli The giant space nods to the Nordic influences on its menus in the blue-tinted windows and large jars of pickled vegetables Mediterranean ingredients get some Northern European tweaks exemplified in dishes like semi-cured sea bream with slivered almonds and red grapes sliced to the size and shape of a penny so don’t be afraid to ask for a half portion A post shared by fismuler (@fismuler) Tapas with a twist: Think shaved mushrooms with wasabi sauce and strawberries next to thumb-length croquetes four) sommeliers here have a particular interest in natural and biodynamic wines and have put together a selection of the ones they love most was the winner of the local Nas d’Or (Golden Nose) prize in 2014 this old-timer bar has been going for almost a century ingredient-first affairs like razor clams with olive oil and pepper like the fried eggplant with goat cheese and honey They do simple things like fried whitebait; eat it whole Also a good place to try drinking from a porrón You lift the porrón as far above your head as you dare and tip the contents into your open mouth Pro tips include opening your mouth as wide as possible A post shared by Bar La Plata (@barlaplata) A collaboration between Cafés El Magnífico and Canal, a high-end patisserie. Their croissant won the prize for best butter croissant of 2020 while the high-backed banquette and that Tiffany shade of turquoise will have you lingering over your coffee A post shared by Pastisseria Brunells (@brunells1852) Three generations have roasted single-origin beans since 1919 long before mainstream coffee culture was a thing They now offer all the newest brewing techniques; when ordering they’ll ask you to specify your method and grind accordingly When father Salvador and daughter Claudia are not in the shop they are either visiting plantations or judging cupping competitions around the world Recently decamped to Barcelona from Buenos Aires where it was always on the Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurant list with a self-built wood-fired oven as the focal point As you might expect from a kitchen run by Argentinians but vegetables charred into submission are equally good you must start with the sourdough and end with the dulce de leche flan — which was the most Instagrammed dessert in Barcelona A post shared by Proper BCN (@properbcn) Primarily a wine store with one of the best gourmet shops in the city There are a few tables where you can sample the best of Catalunya and Spain from Joselito jamón ibérico de bellota to one of the city’s top cheese boards A post shared by ABEL (@vilchezwine) Facing the long nave of the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar this place specializes in both Catalan food and that of the Northern Spanish region of Asturias Try cider poured from a height to aerate the drink the menu is a celebration of well-made charcuterie and cheese like the one with botifarra sausage and trompetes de la mort (literally “trumpets of death,” or black chanterelles) A post shared by Bodega La Puntual (@grupovarela_bodegalapuntual) Across from what was formerly Barcelona’s main fruit-and-vegetable market with fair prices that allow for plenty of flair: Roasted mushrooms are served on a ceramic log to look like they are growing on it while a vegetarian dish of black rice studded with tiny vegetables looks like a miniature garden A post shared by Llamber Restaurant Barcelona (@llamber_restaurant_barcelona) thought and communication features exhibitions set in different spaces of the building on La Rambla a large main foyer area for large-scale functions three exhibition galleries and rooms for exhibitions and the creation of projects related to art science and technology.Arts Santa Mònica has a special focus on the culture around digital media produced in Catalonia The centre acts as a public place for reflection and a channel between artists and the public Exhibitions dedicated to disciplines like architecture the pizza I had at Frankie Gallo Cha Cha Cha is one of the best I've ever tried in all of Barcelona and that's where the pizza is cooked too.' And he goes on about the base as well: 'We have a workshop where we can do tests The base is made with stone-ground organic flour which accelerates the fermentation process The fermentation process never stops: when it's ready It's complicated.' These days everyone wants to be an expert in Chinese bacteria what is pizza if not cooking with fermented products Colombo says they did indeed set out to find a balance between a Roman and a Neapolitan base.In a part of the world where they've committed Italian atrocities in the name of pizza (and Catalan atrocities – in Roses there's a place that charges €15 for a duck pizza saying it's 'creative cuisine on a crust') The place itself is reminiscent of restaurant-clubs from the early 2000s – gigantic with touches of an Asian brothel out of a John Carpenter film two ovens with flames burning seem to be waiting to swallow up Indiana Jones and this is where you think you'll be forking out loads of pocket money to help them pay for it all The average bill is about €20 to €25 we put a lot of ingredients in and toppings on – it's about 250 grams of base alone mozzarella and mushrooms – is just €9.50 smoked salmon and mullet) will set you back €19.50 'This is a place that we want young people as well as locals in the neighbourhood to be able to enjoy,' says Colombo.The menu white pizzas (no tomato sauce) and special pizzas another that looked extremely tempting was the Paki Raval The connection with Bar Brutal stems from the fact that the best possible product is used to make the starters – try the seasonal tomato salad – and in the pizza toppings as well as the craft beer and natural wine menus And what in the world is the origin of the restaurant's name It's the result of a drunken night Colombo and Parrado spent in Little Italy One of the best known restaurants of traditional cuisine in Barcelona is Casa Leopoldo del Raval The news is that it is reopening its doors to the public but now as a Chinese restaurant offering oriental dishes at affordable prices now offers a menu with spring rolls and fried rice The restaurant still retains the facade which was renovated in 2017 with the sign “Casa Leopoldo Restaurant Asiàtic” It was closed for two years due to the pandemic and is now reopened by a family of Chinese origin with a menu of oriental dishes At the entrance you can see the blackboard with the menu at 12,50 € The dishes combine the classics of Chinese restaurants (fried noodles with delicious grilled ingredients such as sausage or cuttlefish or an exquisite beef with oyster sauce The premises remain the same as after the 2017 remodeling although the decorative objects and bullfighting art that were on the walls are gone Gone are the bullfight posters and photos of big celebrities Only dark blue painted walls and Cadiz style tiles It was opened to the public in 1936 by the family of Rosa Gil the restaurant was very important because it maintained the legacy in Barcelona of the traditional Catalan cuisine of Cadaqués and l’Alt Empordà It was more than just a restaurant with diners it was the second home of great personalities of the bullfighting world And for the many references that Vázquez Montalbán made to the restaurant in the Carvalho saga Now Casa Leopoldo del Raval looks more illuminated and with some Mediterranean proposal already run two other restaurants since 2019 and plan to open two more locations soon They say that although the place was a bit dark they liked it a lot because it was in good condition despite having been closed for a couple of years They only made some adjustments and installed lamps since no major changes could be made because the premises are part of the city’s heritage and the building is protected Even to have been able to change the color of the paint on the walls it had to be approved by the administration Restaurant Casa Leopoldo del Raval: Carrer de Sant Rafael Cera 23 started out as a restaurant that offered a reasonable daily menu that includes Galician specialities in the heart of the Raval but now they've also brought in their sister restaurant Arume improving on their nighttime dishes as well with a repertoire of modern Galician classics at great value for money Here the Galician octopus is actually Galician octopus but they also serve up modern Mediterranean cuisine And you can get a great Galician beef steak with tetilla cheese sauce for a phenomenal price Because if you’ve ever wondered what exactly sets ‘artisan’ ice cream apart from the regular stuff The mint chip at Natas isn’t quite the blindingly neon green you’ll find at other shops; it’s just a lot better natural flavour of peppermint leaves like you’d get in a mojito Other selections promise more pleasant surprises at Natas a charming parlour not far from La Rambla in El Raval the shop’s aesthetic is a little confusing: medieval Gothic brick and graffitied door on the outside pink-walled ice cream boutique on the inside But soon all that matters is the ambrosial taste of the scoops you’ve just eaten but some of their best is on the menu of seasonal flavours that you can’t find elsewhere – during summer try the mango lassi which flawlessly converts the popular Indian yoghurt drink into ice cream there are always options like the Valenciano which combines vanilla with orange juice and rum Natas is affordable and in a lively location that’s worth checking out during any stroll through El Raval Check out one of the best districts of central Barcelona one of the former chefs at the world-famous El Bulli and owner of Dos Palillos We talked with him a while ago and asked if it was true that he had plans to open a tapas bar 'something simple – four tapas and a good selection of vermouths.' The result but so much more.While Raurich and his team were setting up Dos Pebrots collecting and ordering data in the catalog known as the Bullipedia and they decided to apply the Bullinian method – creativity systematised through cataloging and analysis – to old cookbooks searching for recipes in 'the history of native dishes and in others that have been lost' is a tapas bar that interprets recipes from the Mediterranean and most before the arrival of tomatoes and peppers The menu at Dos Pebrots has ended up being one more based on mathematics than poetry though we weren't there.' And then you bite into a grilled onion with Raurich's version of garum a fermented fish sauce typical in Ancient Rome and Greece This quite happily coexists on a menu that also lists a potato with a very powerful 'alioli' garlic mayonnaise as well as some outstanding 'empanadillas' stuffed with Atlantic horse mackerel with a touch of ginger with a surprising texture to the dough and a concentrated sea flavour order the pork udders – a part of the animal that was eaten in the days of the Romans – caramelised with the fat from ham Raurich learned that the original version of salpicon (as seen in 'Don Quixote') had neither seafood nor pepper nor tomato in it And here you'll find salpicon in the form of veal tail What they're offering is radical: instead of making variations of 'patatas bravas' and stir-fry supported by the oldest possible documents taking diners on a retro-contemporary journey where the conceptualisation of the restaurant is not just a surface-deep fad The cobblestones in the square outside are also the floor in La Monroe there's a spacious terrace with birdcages to help the ivy grow and small aluminium tables painted in swimming-pool green and coral red Interior designer Antonio Iglesias did a magnificent job: the space is lit with lamps made with recycled egg cartons and large-filament bulbs and there are large wooden tables with scaffolding frames which Iglesias says are a tribute to the 2001 Spanish documentary 'En construcción' ('Work in Progress') by José Luis Guerín which was filmed here. La Monroe is an all-terrain restaurant nibble some tapas – the russian salad is gorgeous as are the Ponts cold cuts – enjoy a well-priced set lunch menu and for dinner try a ceviche or some Iberian ham Spend a pocketful of change and have a coffee or a piece of fabulous home-made cake or have dinner for around €25 like civilised members of society You might feel so welcome you'll want to stay there all day Ducking in and out for a film or two at the Filmo An excellent example of how a place can help to breathe new life into a city neighbourhood style and sought-after extras like a rooftop terrace with a pool and panoramic views and a popular Sunday brunch this hotel might have seemed a bit of a gamble when it was built in the late 2000s Its location in the centre of El Raval neighbourhood perhaps best described as a rough and ready area that tourists (and not a few locals) had previously tended to avoid nowadays the barrio has undergone a notable but not totally suffocating gentrification process and the hotel has much to commend it both in terms of local amenities and the Barceló Raval's own services a dark-coloured ellipsis with a metal mesh-like cover to the moment you see the views of the city from its rooftop terrace 360-degree panoramas of Barcelona… the list of memorable sensory experiences is long with the pricier ones being those with more floor space and better views technological touches and more than a nod to quality and comfort One of the hotel’s biggest draws is its stunning rooftop which includes a plunge pool and from where you feel as though you can see the whole city; while literally at the other end of the building cocktails and one of Barcelona’s first Location: While El Raval has changed a lot since the days it was known as one of the seedier sides of the city there are still places that flatly refuse to undergo development making it an intriguing and authentic place to visit If you’re vigilant with belongings and use your common sense there’s absolutely no reason not to enjoy this spot to the full: cultural centres like the CCCB and MACBA and bars and restaurants old and new are all within walking distance, as is the world-famous La Rambla street with its market Filmoteca: Fans of serious cinema will love the custom-built found just a few streets away from the Barceló Raval The programme includes seasons of productions by globally renowned auteurs and much-loved classics while the Filmoteca’s bar-restaurant is great for a pre- or post-film drink and snack La Central del Raval: This is a bookshop set up in in a former chapel on a largely pedestrianised street that's also home to a number of independent designer boutiques With close to 90,000 books in its catalogue the ample store can keep bibliophiles happy for hours It’s also great if you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts of the stationery kind Ofis/Sifó: These next-door-neighbours that share owners and an Italian-Argentinian ambience are lunch and supper) and an evening cocktail bar for lunch you can choose any two of six dishes on offer plus a glass of wine and dessert for a great price the walls are decorated with the soda syphons left behind by the previous occupants and it’s a popular place for a drink and good music Frankie Gallo Cha Cha Cha: One of our favourite recent openings in El Raval, FGCCC is where you’ll find some of the best pizzas in the city You should definitely try the streaky bacon option (‘cansalada’; the meat is cured in-house) which comes without tomato but with amazing mozzarella and a base to die for Despite the dedication to quality ingredients it’s a more than affordable place to eat out Good for: Visitors looking to combine comfort cocktails and a taste of what this city was like before it became one of the most popular destinations on Earth As even the larger rooms only take a maximum of three people (although they do have a number of adjoining rooms that together sleep four) this is not one for families except perhaps those with very small children Time Out tip: If you buy a ticket for the nearby MACBA a contemporary art centre that hosts several exhibitions simultaneously you can enjoy entrance as many times as you like for a calendar month giving you the time to really savour them as well as the incredible building housing them Satan is in the chapel. No, that’s not the name of some Slayer song. Satan's Coffee Co. and Stefano Colombo (of Xemei fame) co-manage the café-bar at La Central bookshop in the gardens at Casa de la Misericordia (itself a former orphanage) This outdoor space now open to all of Barcelona was once part of the home of a priest that was closed for decades following his death And this is not just any run-of-the-mill outdoor café – the self-service Bar de La Central boasts an interior garden divided into two parts that’s now paved with cobblestones and century-old tiles The other part is a smaller patio bordering the Hermanitas de la Caridad nun boarding school The work is recent but looks a hundred years old We found it in chaos.’ This unique place promises tranquility just a minute away from La Rambla where a tourist or local visiting the bookshop can get a coffee a sandwich or a good glass of wine from 9am to 10pm It’s accessible from C/Elisabets or from the gastronomy section of La Central Satan’s is in charge of breakfast every morning Especially noteworthy are the roast beef sandwiches plus they’ve got a short but select menu of coffees It’s all quality food and drink at an affordable price you can get an excellent cream of cauliflower with toasted garlic and an exquisite sandwich of crumbled cod and guacamole you can share a bottle of natural wine in natural surroundings and they don’t seem to be trying to pull people in off the street to mess with that The third part in the story is the ice cream shop Natas where you can get artisan ice cream year-round and combinations of ice cream and sweets inspired by classic pastries are the floats: ice cream floating in soft drinks or drinks with alcohol Natas is not a classic Italian ice cream parlour but rather a pastry chef’s idea of haute cuisine ice cream Museo d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona The Museo d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona, or MACBA, houses important works from international artists with the focus set on the second half of the 20th century It’s definitely worth doing some reading beforehand about the current exhibitions MACBA museum houses everything from sculptors to painters Not only is there beautiful art to marvel at film projects and audio-visual performances MACBA | © Maciek Lulko/Flickr Gran Teatre del Liceu Since its opening in 1847, the Gran Teatre del Liceu has had a tragic history but all of this simply shows just how much spirit and drive this theatre has Still one of the most prestigious venues in the world Paying homage to its huge international respect the latest mod cons include seat-back subtitles in various languages so there’s no excuse for the non-Spanish speaking tourist but also children’s shows and other musical events Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona This cultural center is one of the most visited exhibition and arts centers in the whole city its location in El Raval means it is focused heavily on the city and urban culture CCCB boasts a huge façade and part of the courtyard even remains from the original medieval monastery on which it was built The exhibitions inside hide certain gems and art definitely worth exploring Found in the historic centre of Zaragoza, El Rincón de Aragón is characterized by its traditional Aragonese dishes This central restaurant boasts a familiar and welcoming atmosphere Choosing from a menu consisting of delicious home cooked meals of lamb with fried potatoes guests can relax with a wine selected from the special wine menu and enjoy typical Aragonese gastronomy in the heart of Zaragoza El Rincón de Aragón | © Courtesy of El Rincón de Aragón Museu Marítim de Barcelona The soaring arches and vaults of the former shipyards make Barcelona’s Maritime Museum one of the most perfectly preserved examples of civil Gothic architecture in the whole of Spain Take advantage of the audio guides and maps whilst exploring the nautical instruments and learning from the informative multimedia displays and models which show visitors everything including the development of shipbuilding and navigation techniques over recent years You can even enjoy the stunning 1917 Santa Eulalia ship docked nearby as well as a variety of temporary exhibitions Rambla del Raval The centerpiece of Barcelona’s diverse and multicultural neighborhood, Rambla del Raval features plenty of street art and people watch for hours on end in the busy hub of El Raval Go in the morning to enjoy peace and quiet and in the evening for busy bars and restaurants Enjoy the open-air Saturday market in every month apart from August amongst other little and ever-changing delights in this urban addition to El Raval Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy Palau Güell Palau Güell is one of many of Gaudi’s spectacular pieces of architecture. This mansion was built for the industrial tycoon, Eusebi Güell, and was built between 1886 and 1888. Situated in Las Ramblas, it is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site as on top of being a spectacular work of art The mansion is centered on a main room for entertaining high society guests who entered the building in horse-drawn carriages through the front iron gates By far one of the most magnificent buildings of the art nouveau movement this is a must see for anyone wishing to see the impressive works of this talented architect La Boquería | © Jason/Flickr After a day of sight seeing and enjoying the cultural centers and historical sites the best thing to do in this area by far is to sample cocktails From her first ever trip to Spain at 10 years old This passion for Spanish has since developed into a love for all things language and travel related and has inspired her dream of working for the Foreign Office Now studying for a degree in Spanish and Arabic studying and teaching in the historic and cultural heart of Morocco Rebecca hates to be stuck in one place for too long she loves to spend time with her friends and supportive boyfriend and metaphorical rock Ayman See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in June See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Summer See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in September Food & Drink The 5 Best Food Markets in Madrid See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in July See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in October Guides & Tips How to Attend a Bullfight in Spain Architecture Spain’s Most Impressive Bullrings Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in August Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in December See & Do The Best European Cities to Visit in Autumn Guides & Tips The Best European Cities to Visit in November US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000 tripssupport@theculturetrip.com © Copyright 2025 The Culture Trip Ltd After descending twisted stairs, I enter the catacombs of Casa Camper and suddenly a rectangular wooden bubble full of retro chairs appears before me It looks like a clandestine Hollywood cocktail bar from the 1950s A whiff of Humphrey Bogart’s cologne hangs in the air The speakers fill the room with spasmodic jazz Two American billiards tables in impeccable condition preside Lithographs and paintings surround this speakeasy and lead the drinker's gaze to the pulpit that is the bar a high-flying bartender who dispenses with the menu and prefers to get to know his clients' likes and dislikes He brings me a wasabi Bloody Mary and I suffer an attack of ethyl-induced priapism: delicious With a flick of his wrist he pulls from his hat a strawberry cocoa with vodka and a pinch of chocolate he mixes up an invigorating drink with passion fruit for my partner They say it’s an infallible aphrodisiac At 23 Robadors young and old performers get together to jam long into the night •Discover more great little places around the world Discover more great little places around the world Hidden on a backstreet in the seedy Barcelona neighbourhood of El Raval that attracts hundreds of aficionados each week Despite the lingering prostitutes and pickpockets 23 Robadors offers a great preview of the city’s emerging musical talents There is no space for luxury in the small seating area: artists and spectators are packed into a 20 sq metre room This intimacy makes the flamenco experience even more unique The venue’s jam sessions are particularly special Established and amateur performers play together This fusion of talent results in an incredible explosion of raw art View image in fullscreenDuring the jam sessions The venue’s tapas and pinxtos cost just €1 apiece 23 Robadors is definitely an address to tick off on your way through Ciutat Vella You know when you have arrived: the number 23 is lit up bright and bold the guy had the nerve to steal the iconic modernista Muy Buenas sign the glass room divider and the entire stretch of the bar The City Council managed to get everything back and it all ended up in pieces on the ground for a year Rebordosa recalls that a craftsman they worked with at La Confitería told them that Muy Buenas was in trouble and they should go have a look to see what they could do Three years later – half of which the space was closed down and the other half under construction – Muy Buenas reopened Rebordosa says they decided that the screen represented such extraordinary artwork that the rest of the space had to be done in the same way Some people complain it's no longer authentic ramshackle wood and Cuban and later Palestinian cuisine (both dubious) What was all that doing in a bar with modernista decor with Aurelia Teichoa (Disfrutar) and Daniel Martínez (Raúl Resino) in the kitchen the goal is to find a balance between good, home-made cuisine and comfortable surrounds Some dishes are perfect for sopping up with bread and I do just that with the meatballs with cuttlefish The flavour of the sea in the sauce combined with the spiciness is intense in just the right way I keep dipping in the juice from the omelette with green beans which is finished off in the oven and with broth And I even get to top my bread with the salad of curly endive and 'flaonas' (a kind of cream empanada from Figueres) they offer a dish of the day for €13 (Mon Go for the modern Catalan cuisine that will satisfy your taste buds As for their bars at the entrance and upstairs they use only Catalan liquors in their dedicated cocktails If you can’t decide on which drink to try consider the Queen Joan Capri – a gin cocktail infused with cucumber La Virreina Image Centre's programme features photography digital documentation and expanded literature in the age of the image among others.With a mission to explore the notion of the image as knowledge and also as a way of sparking new cultural experiences La Virreina aims to forge its own identity within the network of spaces in Barcelona as well as working closely with other centres for visual creation It’s a bar filled with customers from all walks of life with waiters in white shirts that serve you with a mixture of professionalism and familiarity that’s typical of the hotel trade in Barcelona (with either humour or a bad attitude –always carefully in check- that depends on the day) It has a short interior with crowded tables surrounded by walls of exposed brick and the clientele is varied (it’s centrally located and many people pass by it youth) and it’s always full but you’ll quickly find a place to sit What does Bar Castells have?  It’s a lifelong bar and there aren’t many left and in the centre you can count how many on one hand It has a fantastic terrace on Plaza del Bonsuccés It’s a great place to sit and people watch while grabbing a bite to eat that won’t cost an arm and a leg where oftentimes you can find smokers who are half inside half outside slightly elevated wooden buffet filled with bottles behind the tapas display It’s easy to see that this bar has been around for a century from people who have everything and those who have nothing in particular: they all come together here in Bar Castells lends its 400-seater basement auditorium to classical and contemporary concerts remodel it and turn it into a place with happenings including performances Thursdays are see La Virgen packed with members grooving to the the gypsy jazz jam with the Trio Barnouche and the first Saturday of every month La Virgen spreads into the street to welcome second-hand market El Rastro expats and those who are curious about the more Bohemian side of Barcelona nightlife There's also a wide variety of looks among the patrons The price of a beer depends on whether there's a show or not but they'll whip you up a bikini (toasted ham and cheese sandwich) for €2.50 You won't get the strongest signal on your mobile and because it's registered as a cultural association rather than a bar