It’s hard to believe that El Raval was once a no-go area for tourists. Today, the neighborhood is a thriving cultural hub, offering everything from Gaudi’s architectural work, to a range of diverse restaurants. We list the top ten places to find great Catalan and international food in the area.
A favorite among local Catalans, Can Cañete is an outstanding restaurant serving traditional Catalan cuisine. Diners have the option to be seated around the bar area or to sit at a table instead. Expect to find Catalan specialities such as canelones de foie or esqueixada de bacalao, but there are also more modern dishes such as the tuna tataki or the mussels with citrus to try.
This is a tapas restaurant with a twist. Featuring Asian-inspired dishes, guests can enjoy the arty ambience of El Raval whilst enjoying a range of predominantly seafood Japanese style dishes. Serving unusual and unique dishes, from lamb brains to jellyfish, Dos Palillos is certainly an option for the adventurous traveler wanting a little break from traditional Spanish food. This fusion restaurant gives you a taste of Japan, Spain, China, Thailand and even Vietnam. Unsurprisingly, it was awarded a Michelin star in 2015.
Although not a traditional Catalan restaurant, Caravelle is somewhat of an institution in El Raval. The venue specialises in home-made tacos which come in a variety of combinations, as well as burgers, chicken wings and more. The venue prides itself on its home-made produce, from pickles to chilli sauce to ginger-beer. Expect a low-key, chilled out atmosphere, but with top-of-the-range food. Also worth a mention is the fact that it happens to serve one of the best brunches in town.
Bullfighting may be controversial, but it will always be a part of Barcelona’s heritage. Somewhat of a museum, with a 1960s décor, Los Toreros is known for its excellent tapas for those who don’t mind a bit of exposure to what was once a huge part of the Catalonian culture. Themed tapas are on offer and include rabo de toro (bull’s tail, although it is actually ox).
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