The first thing that came to mind when I came here was the expression “small but perfectly formed”. Recommended by friends who live in Barceloneta this has been one of my favourite places to eat for some time. Especially on weekends after a walk along the beach or taking friends from abroad for a visit of this very traditional Barcelona neighbourhood.
If you go past the main bar area, at the back lies a sweet outside space with tables which is open all seasons. Great for my smoker friends who can enjoy that rarest of pleasures these days, smoking while sitting down at a table.
If the place is full, the staff will put your name on a blackboard, the street is quiet so it’s a perfect place to stand and wait for your table as you sip a vermouth until you get called.
Bitacora is well known locally for its fusion tapas that mix traditional staples like padrón peppers (my mouth waters just saying that) and more hip additions like ceviche or tuna tartar. Always ask for the days specials, the friendly staff tend to speak good English and can guide you through the menu. The place has an unpretentious relaxed atmosphere which I love and evidently so do many others as it is always well attended. Give it a try and enjoy their dishes based on fresh ingredients and cooked with great flair.
Oh and a second, more spacious Bitacora has opened in Poblenou, life just gets better.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Barcelona guide.
"Maison Carne" has become one of my favorites in Barcelona. The concept is simple: a 1kg of ribeye steak for two, with fries & salad. Simple. Perfect.
By
"Albé" in Barcelona is a restaurant that offers the best of Catalunya together with a genuine Lebanese touch. In Arabic, it means 'my heart' - no wonder...
By
Here, classic bar snacks like croquettes, bravas, and potato salad coexist harmoniously with more substantial, stew-based dishes.
By
"CCCB", or the Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona has a lot of temporary exhibitions. I love going there on Sundays, when it's free to enter...
By
"Contracorrent Bar" is one of those spots in Barcelona you should not miss if you are a natural wine fan, especially since it's at a very central spot!
By
The "Coros de Barceloneta" in Barcelona is one of the oldest and by definition most authentic festivities you can find.
By
"Blu Bar" in Barcelona is close enough to Rambla Poblenou that it's not far away from the buzz, but I love that it's a spot I can read the newspaper...
By
"Lasun" in Barcelona is a Nepalese restaurant - I never thought I would be eating Nepalese, but I can't recommend it enough! Super-enjoyable experience...
By
"Pit Stop Pizza" in Barcelona is amazing. You have to try their unique creations, like the panceta or portobello pizza - or their cheesecake pizza.,,
By
"Otra Cosa Taberna" in Barcelona has good food with artisanal ingredients and focuses on natural wines. You have to try the orgasmic 'tres leches'...
By