I love the Rambla Poblenou with its lively cafes and restaurants, but when I want to sit outdoors and enjoy the street atmosphere but with a touch more quiet, then I grab a seat at Blu Bar.

What I like about this place is the large outside space; it’s set back from the Rambla and affords enough peace to read a newspaper or have a quiet drink while keeping the great buzz of this area close by.

When I have been for a walk at the nearby Bogatell beach, it’s also a great place to stop and rehydrate. The first time I came here was on a winter day when the weather was not so great, I stepped inside to shelter from the elements and got comfortable at one of the tables by the window. The charming staff proved very chatty and before I knew it lunchtime was upon me and I was ordering one of their fine pizzas.

I come back often, usually for a slow aperitif before Sunday lunch. The selection of bottled beers is good and if you mean business then try one of the cocktails, they stay open until late, so you can get comfy and watch the world go by. Some friends of mine stopped here once for a quick beer and ended up staying for five hours. Who could blame them?