Tag: El Born

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Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa

Not to be confused with its sister hotel next door, the Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa is the suave sibling, with a stunning rooftop pool area where you can escape the crowds. In real-estate terms it’s the location, location, location that wins it here. Being right on the edge of the popular El Born district – just walk through the passage under the hotel – means you’re in the thick of the attractions (as well as the tourist crowds), while also offering the quieter charge of the Eixample on the front doorstep. You choose.

Carrer de Trafalgar, 26

 

 

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Bar Brutal/Can Cisa

 

Not a destination for masochists, necessarily. Some smartly prepared dishes with fresh produce, but the schtick here is the massive list of brutal (or natural) wines from across the globe. Unless you’re an anorak you’re probably not going to recognise any labels here – and you’ll be challenged by them too. A lack of sulphites means no next-morning headaches, but it may be a headache to find the right one for you. We went by the glass and tried a few – a safe choice, to be sure. If you’re a fan of natural wines, you may feel you’ve reached Nirvana, if not, you may wonder what the fuss is all about.

C/Barra de Ferro, 1 – enter through Can Cisa C/Princesa, 14

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Bar del Pla

Bar del Pla_1

A traditional-looking tapas joint that doesn’t look vastly different from the rest with it’s unassuming facade, but one that raises the food to a higher level.

Bar del Pla

You’re not coming here for the décor, and what is it with the floodlit restaurants in this town? But it is worth the (probable) wait for a seat.

There’s a little experimentation in the kitchen, but largely it’s the standards done really well. They may not be described very accurately on the menu either: the “fried small fish” turned out to be more like a fisherman’s platter, and bloody good too.

Bar del Pla_4

Bar del Pla packed with locals, so that’s a good sign, and definitely worth a stop if you’re in the El Born district (on the same street as the Picasso Museum, but far enough away not to be completely overrun with tourists).

Book ahead, or be prepared to wait.

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Calle Montcada, 2

 

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Cuines Santa Caterina

Cunies Santa Caterina

This place is hugely popular, and it’s easy to see why. Eat in the restaurant, at the bar, or al fresco on a nice day, but beware – it’s a tapas menu at the bar and outside, while the indoors dining area has the full menu.

The kitchen turns out an odd array of dishes – from Spanish standards to Thai noodles and sushi. Needless to say we stick with the Spanish.

Cuines Santa Caterina_2

The Catalan sausage with foie gras and Santa Pau beans is a standout on a menu that’s generally winners.

Avda Francesc Cambó, 16

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