T R A V E L / H O T R E S T A U R A N T S

Top 5 TAPAS BARS:
BARCELONA

1. Tickets Tapas Bar

CREATIVE World famous Spanish chefs, Albert and Ferran Adria (ex-El Bulli), have stretched the boundaries of their imaginations with their smash-hit Spanish tapas venture, Tickets Tapas Bar. The boldly colourful, playful setting will make you feel as though you’ve fallen within a gastronomic Alice in Wonderland playground. Creativity is given free-reign throughout Tickets' frequently-changing menu which features the finest local ingredients. The first open kitchen offers “Traditional” tapas such as premium sliced Jamón ibérico, anchovies and pan con tomate (bread with tomato and garlic); the second kitchen offers deconstructionist “Modern” tapas such as ravioli liquido filled with Payoyo cheese, and hand-crafted liquid olives. To finish, the fun-filled “Dessert” bar offers out-of-this-world sweets such as warm buñuelos pastry balls with molten chocolate interiors. TIckets is officially the most difficult-to-book restaurants in Barcelona, so make sure to book well in advance online through their website.
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Avenida del Paraŀlel, 164, 08015 Barcelona
+34 932 92 42 54 | ticketsbar.es

2. Mont Bar

FUNKY If a long wine list is the selling point when it comes to choosing where to dine out in Barcelona’s Eixample neighbourhood, then Mont Bar and its 250 wine references are sure to satisfy the palate. Select your drink of choice and then ponder over the variety of tapas on offer. Made with seasonal produce, the creative chefs whip up inventive share plates according to an ever-changing menu. Must-try dishes include the smoked tuna belly, ceviche or the restaurant’s infamous gooey Burrata (made from Mozzarella and cream). More expensive than your average tapas, but the superb taste sensations are worth every penny.

Carrer de la Diputació, 220, 08011 Barcelona
+34 933 23 95 90 | montbar.com

3. Coure

MODERN Taking inspiration from Catalan cuisine and then infusing it with imagination, renowned chef Albert Ventura is the brain behind this underground establishment along with partner and . Bringing together a smattering of delectable delights, fine dining atmosphere and an elegant interior that is polished yet unpretentious, Coure was one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets, until now. Be daring and dine A la carte, or for the indecisive traveller opt for the sensational set menu or tasting menu. End the night on a high and seal the deal with a serving of the impossibly smooth Eucalyptus ice cream. A true gem; perfect for an intimate night out.

PJ Marimon 20, 08021 Barcelona, Spain
+34 932 00 75 32 | restaurantcoure.es

4. Bodega 1900

GOURMAND For an upscale yet authentic-feeling tapas and vermouth bar, look no further than Bodega 1900. The latest venture from the Adrià brothers is decked out in with home-style furniture and decor including old photos from the Adrià family albums. Start with a lip-smacking house made vermouth–said to be the best in the city–before diving into the inventive cuisine. Small plates are aplenty, and with decadent platters of sliced cheeses, local meats and seafood, dining at Bodega is meant to be a sharing affair. Don’t leave without trying the infamous exploding olive.

Carrer de Tamarit, 91, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
+34 933 25 26 59 | ca.bodega1900.com

5. Suculent

COSY Traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine are Suculent’s specialities. Located on the lively Rambla del Raval in the up and coming multicultural neighbourhood of Raval, this little rustic-style restaurant is big on flavour. The menu is varied–think: croquettes, melon and mint soup, cod cream complete with crisp breads and truffle oil –and is created around fresh produce sourced daily from the local market. If the sun is out, beeline for a prime position outside and watch on as daily life in one of the world’s most beautiful cities unfolds. Stunning meal presentation, attentive staff and local wines make this special slice of Barcelona a gastronomic heaven not to be missed.

Rambla del Raval, 43, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
+34 934 43 65 79 | suculent.com