Barcelona for Foodies

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia in Spain, is not only known for its stunning architecture and rich history but also for its mouthwatering authentic cuisine. The city offers a delectable culinary experience that is deeply rooted in its culture and traditions. From tapas and seafood dishes to Catalan specialties and tantalizing desserts, Barcelona boasts a diverse array of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Exploring the streets of Barcelona means embarking on a gastronomic adventure, where every corner reveals a new and tantalizing dish waiting to be savored.

The food of a region is a reflection of their history and their geographical location and the resources that they have available to them. Barcelona is a city on the northeastern coast of Spain on the Balearic Sea. The food fare that travelers will find there is definitely reflective of the colorful history of Barcelona and its’ centralized location (in relation to northern Africa and all of the Mediterranean).

Beverages

Let’s kick this list off with a couple of great beverages that anyone who is traveling to Barcelona will need to try.

Sangria

Everyone knows that you have to try a great glass of Sangria. This is a great refreshment on a hot day.

The great thing about Sangria is that every restaurant and Sangria maker has a different take on it and some places will even offer up to 6 different varieties on their menu.

Cava

This is the sparkling wine of Spain. It is normally a drink that is on the sweeter type but there is a variation. Brut Cava is a cava that is drier, and it tends to taste more like traditional champagne.

Traditional Meats

There are a couple of meats that are traditional to Spain and they should be any everyone’s list of foods to try.

Iberico Ham

Iberico ham is to Spain what prosciutto is to Italy. This ham has become a famous ingredient known well to world-class chefs as one of the best hams in the world.

This ham can be served on its’ own or as an ingredient in a dish. It is cut thicker than prosciutto, so it is not as delicate and a little meatier.

Chorizo

Chorizo is a spicy sausage that is eaten in many different ways including sliced up like salami or used as an ingredient in many dishes.

Cheese

Manchego

This sheep’s milk cheese pairs great with wonderful Iberico ham. It has a salty, earthy flavor to it and it originated in the La Mancha region of Spain (hence the name). It is eaten all throughout Spain with great popularity.

Dishes And Other Fare

Gazpacho

This is a chilled tomato soup that is really satisfying on a hot Spanish summer day. It sometimes comes served with Pa amb tomaquet or with sides of croutons, red peppers, and onion. No matter how it is served, it’s delicious.

Bocadillos

This is the Spanish version of a sandwich. They are made on baguettes that are soft and crusty all at the same time. You can choose the meat that you want on it and then they are topped with multiple sauces and toppings that can include lentils, lettuce, corn, or cucumbers.

Seafood

Barcelona is located right on the Balearic Sea and is just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean. This makes Barcelona a central place for amazing seafood. One of the great dishes to try is the calamari and squid, which you can get either fried or grilled.

Bombas

Bombas are a combination of mashed potatoes and meat that are rolled in bread crumbs in the shape of a ball and fried. They usually come in two different sizes (like snack and meal size) and they are usually served with one aioli on top and another on the bottom.

Spanish Omelet

This is not the breakfast omelet that is probably coming to your mind right now. This is an omelet that is eaten all day and can come in an individual size or larger and served in slices. It is filled with chunks of potatoes and onions and served with some type of aioli.

Pa Amb Tomaquet

This is a bread that is served with many dishes in Barcelona. It is so popular that if you don’t order it specifically, many servers with ask you if you want it. It is a slice of bread topped with a rub of olive oil and tomato and a dash of salt. Everyone puts their own twist on the dish, some will toast the bread and others will serve it with more chunks of tomato.

Croquettas

This is a dish that is a lot like the Bombas. Croquettas are filled with meat (usually chicken or Iberico ham) and cheese. They are a long, oval shape. Spain can really be a food lover’s dream.

There are amazing restaurants and cafes that line the streets and all of the best Spanish fares are at a traveler’s fingertips. They love to serve their food in the small-plate style, so the portions are great for eating all day long. One thing that you need to be aware of is that there are going to be different serving size options. A pintxos serving is a portion that is like a two-bite snack and that is perfect for on-the-go. A tapas menu is going to be a bigger serving size that is meant for sharing amongst a couple of people.

Barcelona is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a wealth of authentic and delicious culinary delights. Whether you’re strolling through bustling food markets like La Boqueria, dining in charming local restaurants, or indulging in traditional tapas in lively bars, the gastronomic experiences in Barcelona are sure to leave you longing for more. From the robust flavors of paella to the delicate sweetness of crema catalana, each bite tells a story of the city’s rich culinary heritage. So, if you find yourself in Barcelona, be prepared to embark on a culinary journey that will ignite your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories of the city’s delectable authentic cuisine.

Curious about Barcelona and want to learn more? Download our free city guide.

Barcelona vacation inspiration

Embarking on a cruise from Barcelona offers a multitude of compelling reasons to choose this magnificent city as your starting point. Barcelona’s prime location on the picturesque Mediterranean coast allows for easy access to some of the most captivating ports and destinations in the region. From the glamorous French Riviera to the historic wonders of Italy and the cultural gems of Greece, a cruise from Barcelona opens up a world of possibilities for exploration. Beyond its strategic location, Barcelona itself is a treasure trove of attractions, boasting architectural marvels, vibrant markets, world-class museums, and a lively culinary scene. Gaze in awe at the mesmerizing Sagrada Familia, stroll along the iconic Las Ramblas, or savor delicious tapas in the charming Gothic Quarter. Additionally, the city offers excellent transportation connections, making it convenient to reach the port and explore the city before or after your cruise. Cruising from Barcelona not only offers a memorable voyage through enchanting destinations but also provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating culture and beauty of this remarkable city.

Two favorite cruises are Virgin Voyages’ 7-night Irresistible Med and also the 7-night French Daze and Ibiza Nights, both sailing from Port of Barcelona May through October. Sailors enjoy adult-only ships and immersive itineraries. Virgin Voyages is also getting rave reviews for its world-class cuisine, outstanding service, and state-of-the-art staterooms. For more information or to book a cruise from Barcelona, contact cruise specialist, Brenda Ajay.