There are so many delicious and affordable food and drink options in Barcelona. Even amidst political chaos, places of business remain open and tourists continue to pour in.
Catalonians seem to protest pretty peacefully, after all.
In a city that is pedestrian friendly- Segways and electric scooters were recently banned in some parts-and feels safe day and night, it's easy to hop from one establishment to the other, no matter what time it is.
So get your list ready, your walking shoes on and plan on hitting as many restaurants, markets, coffee shops and cocktail bars as your feet and belly can handle. It's still a mystery that I didn't gain (but somehow lost) pounds in this Spanish beach city, but I'm not complaining and you won't either.
Day 1
Casa Bonay-an affordable and hip hotel in Barcelona's La Dreta de l'Eixample neighborhood-has two restaurants and a rooftop terrace (open seasonally) to choose from. Grab a coffee and some pastries at Satan's Coffee Corner. If you're hungry for a full breakfast, Libertine offers a prix fixe breakfast buffet.
If it's more of a brunch vibe you're looking for, or if you went with the Satan's coffee/pastry option, head to Alsur Cafe-there are a few different locations to choose from-for a Latin fusion-style meal (i.e. nachos and guac made with plantains instead of tortilla chips) plus a cheap bottle of champagne.
There's also Brunch & Cake, a popular spot thanks to social media, known for its beautifully plated meals and a wait time that can reach two hours on the weekends. Visit on a weekday for shorter lines or brave the crowd on a Sunday if you think you can make it without getting hangry. (Come on, do it for the 'Gram!)
Get on over to the Cottonhouse Hotel for architectural eye candy and a cocktail/coffee pick me up. Batuar, the hotel's gorgeous rooftop bar is open from 7 a.m. to midnight daily and has both indoor and outdoor spaces. The patio area is filled with plants, cabana-style seating and oversized rattan chairs.
Day 3
Start your day at La Boqueria, an indoor, open-air market open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily.
You'll find everything from candy to fresh juices, from seafood to serrano jam and cheese you can eat from little paper cones with your fingers. Check menus and prices-some cater to tourists and are pricier than they would be elsewhere.
It's rarely too early for an alcoholic beverage, and you can get your drink on at noon inside Boadas, Barcelona's oldest cocktail bar. Founded in 1933 by a man who worked at Havana's famed El Floridita (an Ernest Hemingway favorite), this "cockteleria," attracts tourists and locals alike with its classic cocktails, cheery bartenders and dark, sexy decor.
Make early dinner reservations at Bodega 1900; The sister restaurant of Chef Albert Adria's well-known Tickets fills up and sells out of certain menu items quickly. Order the house vermouth with various tapas, including the heavenly liquid olive spheres. Finish off strong with a creamy, melts-in-your-mouth flan for dessert.
Rather than ending the night at a club-Barcelona is known more for its Spanish cafe culture than raging discotheques-head to intimate local bar, El Tabernito, for a nightcap. (The place probably fits 20 people, max.)
Whether it's a gin and tonic, a margarita or a made-to-order cocktail your heart fancies, this hidden gem has you covered.
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