TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: LA COVA FUMADA (Barceloneta) 0 (0)

TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: LA COVA FUMADA (Barceloneta) 0 (0)

Authentic and unique, this bar / restaurant that is already part of the life and history of the neighborhood is the perfect place to enjoy intense flavors, a legendary “bomb” and the best atmosphere, which leaves no doubt that you have come to the Barceloneta.

There is a detail of La Cova Fumada that says everything about them: on its facade, unlike all the bars and restaurants that one can go looking for, there is no sign.

No colorful and flashy letters to tell us what’s going on in there. Nothing to indicate that there, behind those old-looking doors and dark brown painted wood, is the famous Cova Fumada.

And they simply do not need it.

Those who live in the neighborhood know exactly where it is. And those who come from afar, if they know it, it is because someone sent them the information, someone took them or recommended the place to them. And that is more than enough.

Get comfortable where you can

La Cova Fumada is always full of people.

Life-long neighbors from the neighborhood who have breakfast or lunch here. Barcelonians who know that a visit to the Cova is a plan that must be repeated more than once in a lifetime. And tourists from all corners of the world, who find out that this is a gastronomic gem full of history.

Nobody wants to miss it. So if necessary (especially if you arrive after 1:00 p.m.), you line up and wait outside, until a table (or space) is available, which allows us to enter and enjoy some good tapas, accompanied by a cold beer, or a house wine.

The place is small. 

Very small. A bar on the left, where there is always more than one who, instead of waiting for a table, enjoy their drink and food right there. Also on the left, but a little higher, are the wine barrels.

Then the tables, those made of marble and iron legs that are already a little journey back in time, are spread over the few square meters of the living room. That allows a few seats, so that only arriving at 11 in the morning, can one (perhaps) choose where to sit. Later, they are simply grateful that they found a place to occupy.

You can even share the table with others, if necessary. What’s more: even if you have a table all to yourself, they are so close to each other that you have the feeling of being part of a great family meal.

And finally, to the right of the premises, the place where magic happens: the kitchen and its fires.

Open to the living room, it is as small as the rest of the place. But it never stops. It is a coming and going of dishes and fills everything with the best possible aromas. It’s almost hypnotizing to watch them work at the pace they do, because once La Cova Fumada opens its doors, the orders don’t stop coming in. And their dishes don’t stop coming out.

The origin of the name

From that kitchen comes the name of this already mythical place in Barceloneta; apparently there was a time when there was not enough ventilation. That is why this old winery, affectionately called “cave”, was almost always full of smoke … that is, “smoked”.

And from that baptism, more than 75 years have passed.

Three generations of the same family have kept the history and life of La Cova alive. Very little has changed since its inception: the marble bar, the old doors and even the blackboard where you can read the menu proposals are still as present as its people.

These walls are light years away from glamour and “design”: here what counts is the true, the authentic, what counts as time passes. The essence has remained unchanged and is appreciated.

Going to La Cova is feeling part of something bigger: the history of a neighborhood, the lives of its people, always enjoying those same flavors, because they are the ones that never fail.

This family business opened its doors in 1944. La Barceloneta, with its identity of sea and fishermen was the perfect setting for this tapas bar that would make fresh fish and seafood the protagonists of its menu. But without a doubt, the big star is the “bomb.”

The (famous) Bomba

It was María, the grandmother of the current owners of the Cova, the brilliant creator of this delight that, over time, many tried to replicate in other restaurants. But it must be said: the Cova Fumada bomb is unique, because between the mashed potato, the meat filling and its two sauces (aioli and a very spicy red one) there is a secret ingredient that not even the CIA could unravel.

Legend has it that it was a man of the neighborhood, Enric, who unwittingly gave it the name. When tasting this delicacy he exclaimed: “This is the bomb!” And the rest is history.

Today, the brothers Josep María and Magí Solé carry on this family tradition: the first, receives customers at the door and is in charge of carrying out the waiting list. Attentive in his work, he never forgets anyone and juggles to find a place for everyone. Magí, for his part, takes his place in the kitchen with their mother, Palmira, and his son Guillem.

The rest of the staff is always the same. One has the feeling that if any of them were missing, the Cova would not be the same. All are fundamental pieces of a gear that works perfectly.

We insist: the rhythm in this place is non-stop. Amid the hustle and bustle of the tables, we don’t know how, but they manage to get each plate out, find a space for a new diner, serve you your drink and everything, at a speed that more than a fast food restaurant would envy.

What do we eat?

The question really should be: what do we NOT eat? Because everything is so good that you want to order the entire board. But you have to control yourself. Still, you can always come back.

We already talked about the bomb: so it would be a mortal sin not to ask for it.

We continue with the fish and shellfish: the cod with its tomato sauce is glorious; The marinated octopus has one of the most intense and delicious flavors we have ever tasted and the grilled squid, with garlic and parsley, always tempts us with its golden and crispy exterior and so tender at the same time.

If these do not convince you, there are also the marinara mussels, squid with onion, prawns, razor clams, cod fritters … all fresh and delicious.

Leaving aside the sea products, a salad (the Russian one or the one with tomatoes and onions) or the chickpeas with blood sausage are always worth a shot.

To drink, it is simple: beer or wine (red or white) from the house. The latter, served in a jug and somewhat cold, because of its power, always invites a good and refreshing nap.

The portions are not gigantic but they are at a good price. The idea is that you can try a little of everything. The premise is always this: popular cuisine at a popular price. In any case, the final bill will depend on your ability to control so as not to ask for everything there is.

In our life in Barcelona, Cova Fumada is that place we always want to return to. And we always do. Especially with friends.

It has that wonderful power to make us feel good, every time. In fact, with some it has become a ritual and a must-see every year they come to Barcelona. You can’t go home without having lunch at Cova Fumada. And if we can, we repeat.

Everything is joy and that incredible feeling that you are living the good things in life.

Tip: although we show you the schedules below, here is an important information. If you want to make sure you enter the Cova, the ideal time is around 12 noon. After 1:00 p.m., there is no other option than the waiting list. And make sure it’s written down: when the doors are closed at 3pm, everyone who is not on the list cannot go in.

Very close to La Cova Fumada are the beaches of Barceloneta, Find out about the history and curious facts of these beaches in this article.

Don’t miss this place:

LA COVA FUMADA

Carrer del Baluard 56, Barrio de la Barceloneta

Telephone 932 21 40 61

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 9am to 3pm.

Thursdays and Fridays also from 6pm to 8pm.

Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.

Link: Web / Instagram / Facebook

TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: CHARCUTERIA LA PINEDA (Barrio Gótico) 0 (0)

TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: CHARCUTERIA LA PINEDA (Barrio Gótico) 0 (0)

Open since 1930, Charcutería La Pineda is one of those very authentic grocery stores / bars, where time does not seem to have passed and where fresh, varied and high quality products are the star of the show.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQbUwr6ieNg&feature=youtu.be

This happens when walking through the old town of Barcelona: the wonderful possibility of discovering hidden corners, hidden treasures and bars that are part of the identity of this exciting city.

And although La Pineda Pineda is not trapped between small streets (rather, it is in one of the busiest streets of the Gothic, Carrer del Pi), its spirit of bygone times distinguishes it from all the other offer on this street.

¡Pasen y vean!

A canopy that indicates its year of birth and a window in which his products can already be seen, added to the sausages that hang on the door is the best invitation to enter.

And inside it gets even better: sausages, fuets, sausages, hams that hang from the ceiling over a fridge that stores more variety of cold cuts and cheeses. The walls that are filled with wines, beers, oils, condiments and preserves surround a few tables, those of marble with iron legs, that call you to sit down and enjoy a good time.

And above that, as on a mezzanine, a world of bottles of all colors and shapes. The best welcome to a place where good food and drinks are guaranteed.

Everything in La Pineda breathes the air of other times.

Small and cozy, the simple act of entering is already a treat for the eyes. But the best is yet to come: because when you sit down and ask for any of their products, the flavors are so good that it makes you wonder why you didn’t come to eat here before. It always starts with the beverages. Wines, vermouth, beer, cava … there is something for everyone.

But also, at La Pineda, the staff, super caring and friendly, advises you to drink that wine that best suits your palate or your desire for that day. The options are many and surely you will find something that is ideal for you.

Now, when it is time for food, the experience reaches its climax. We challenge you to sit at one of their tables, take the menu and choose in 1 minute what you are going to order, without doubting a second of your choice.

We think it will be difficult for you to do it. Because there are so many options and they all sound so tasty, that you are going to want everything at La Pineda.

A comeeeeeer.

From cheese boards and sausages, through preserves and olives of all shapes, colors and flavors, to their sandwiches, one tastier than the other, in this 90-year-old grocery store there is no shortage of flavors, and good ones.

Separate mention for the variety of hams: do not hesitate to consult with the people of La Pineda who will advise you so that you can choose according to the price and quality you are looking for.

The products offered are not only Catalan: cheeses, sausages, hams also arrive from different corners of Spain … you can take a gastronomic trip through the best flavors of these lands without leaving your chair.

Let’s be clear: this is not a super cheap place. Quality has a price, but without exaggeration.

The prices are great for what is offered, and according to your budget, you can enjoy a delicious sandwich for less than what a hamburger costs in one of those fast food chains. And in a unique environment, which you will surely take more than one photo of.

The service at La Pineda is noteworthy: there has not been a single time (and we have already been here more than once) when we have not been treated with care and dedication.

We were lucky to meet María and she knew how to guide us, within the great variety of proposals they have, to help us choose what best suits our tastes and desires.

And always with a smile and a lot of kindness. And that is the finishing touch for an experience that you cannot miss if you are in Barcelona.

Tip: La Pineda in not only a restaurant, it also works as a grocery store or warehouse. So if you are just passing by, or prefer to experience a delicious “pica-pica” (snacks) with the best products at home, you can stop by and buy your sausages and cheeses, as in any delicatessen in the city.

Muy cerca de La Pineda podrás descubrir un lugar encantador donde entre otras cosas encontrarás la Basílica de Santa María del Pi. No te pierdas este paseo.

Acá te dejamos los datos para que puedas llegar sin problemas a esta fantástica pastelería:

CHARCUTERIA

LA PINEDA

Carrer del Pi 16, Barrio Gótico

Telephone 933 02 43 93

Opening Hours:

Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 9:30pm

Sundays from 10am to 3pm.

Links: Instagram / Facebook

TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: HOFMANN PASTELERÍA (Barrio del Born) 0 (0)

TODAY WE’RE GOING TO: HOFMANN PASTELERÍA (Barrio del Born) 0 (0)

Recognized pastry, award-winning croissants, an impeccable presentation and everything within meters from one of the most beautiful and iconic avenues of the city, Passeig del Born. Hofmann is a must-have for anyone who loves sweets. And for those who don’t, it may as well.

It is very likely, I dare say that it is certain, that during your tour of Barcelona, you visit the famous Passeig del Born. Comprised of just a few streets, it is an avenue that summarizes the beauty of one of the most beautiful areas of the city. In addition, the gastronomic offer around it is huge and varied: bars, restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors. What you seek, you will find.

What is also likely is that, in the middle of this small labyrinth of alleys, you miss the sweet treasure hidden in one of those small streets that surround the promenade.

In Carrer dels Flassaders 44 is Hofmann: a small and very well decorated shop that is, no more and no less, one of the best pastry shops in the entire city. (On the same street there is a witness of the city’s past that is worth discovering. Here’s the link for you to find it: THE RED ZONE OF BARCELONA )

When did Hoffman start?

In 2008, a bakery opens for the first time, which originates from the desire of Mey Hofmann (you can visit the website of the Fundación Mey Hofmann to know a little more about this talented cook), a confectionery lover, to offer the most refined desserts to the citizens of Barcelona.

Today without a doubt, it is a gastronomic benchmark, since the Hofmann world did not stop at the pastry shop but also includes a hospitality school, a restaurant (awarded with a Michelin star in 2004), a tavern, and also a catering service .

The truth is that when we first approached to sample their famous croissants, we hadn’t done much research regarding the brand’s history. We went there because we had already been told, several times, that the “best croissant in Barcelona” was sold there. And when someone makes such a statement, we have to go check it out.

But there was one more detail: the recommendation emphasized that we had to try the mascarpone cheese-filled croissant.

Say no more!, This last ingredient surely tempted us.

Croissants, Mascarpone and everything else

And there we went, eager to satisfy all our sugary needs in one bite. Knowing that the test was important because our expectations, after so many recommendations, were very high.

And we can say with total conviction and absolute strength that we were not disappointed.

Quite the contrary: it was much better than we had imagined.

Obviously, from that day on, we are faithful proposers of this delight.

Entering their shop, small and decorated with very good taste, is a feast for the eyes of any sweet tooth.

Both in the window that you see when you enter, as well as in the sideboards of the premises, their creations are exposed, for everyone’s admiration: the Pistachio or the Rose, for example, they look luxurious. Not to mention the taste!

Everything looks so good and so delicious that, if you don’t control yourself, you can burn a large part of your budget at Hofmann.

Gentleman, please concentrate!

In our case, we are very clear about what we are going to do. So we stand in line, and wait for our turn to be served.

As we said before, the store is not very big and there are always many customers. It may even happen that the line extends outside the premises.

This especially occurs in the morning, when a good croissant is the star of the breakfast. But do not worry, the wait is not long … and we guarantee that it is worth it. Because it is not a small thing, we are talking about the Best Artisan Butter Croissant of the year 2010, and the more than award-winning Mascarpone Croissant.

When you arrive at the counter where the employees receive you, the order is made quickly.

It is true that, in general, one already has a very clear idea of what to look for and there are not many doubts when it comes to being attended. But as clear as we have it, we must take into account all the options, which stands out in flavor and quality: croissants with chocolate, with raspberry, with mango cream, cinnamon roll …

Everything super delicious and freshly baked. And as much as you see an endless queue to get to the counter, do not be afraid of missing yours, because in the busiest moments, you will see the trays arrive, one after the other, full of croissants, and with that little smell unmistakable that the delicacies fresh from the oven give off.

Being there is an experience for all the senses.

Croissant + Mascarpone

Speaking of senses, let’s go for the taste, which is the most important in this experience. Because discovering the flavors of a mascarpone croissant, which we are fans of, is sublime.

You start with the dough, something crispy on the outside and fluffy and soft on the inside, with a glaze that covers it and provides the sweetness; but this is only the first bite, when we have not reached the heart of mascarpone yet. That is when everything is summed up in perfection: when biting mixes sweetness, the exact acidity and creaminess of this delicious Italian cheese.

And there is nothing more to say. Everything is enjoyment, smiles, and fast movements that prevent spilling on the floor (or on clothes) not even one gram of all that impressive flavor (it is true that some napkins would be good, so have this in mind when you go, because the shop does not include them in the package).

Some practical tips: in order to enjoy this experience, we recommend you go early, no later than noon. Because in the afternoon, especially after 5 or 6 pm, it is likely that you will no longer find more croissants (the same will not happen with the rest of the incredible products they offer).

Second tip: mascarpone croissant is a powerful product. You will see that after eating a whole one, (we did not say that it costs just under € 3), your stomach will keep calm for a few hours. You may even skip the next meal.

Third tip: if your breakfast lacks coffee, you can also buy it in the store; Yes, to go, because there are no tables. So right there, you can get everything you need, to continue strolling between sweet bites, or sit down to have breakfast on one of the benches of the unmissable Passeig del Born that you will see around the corner.

Enjoy!!

Passeig del born is a street that we recommend you visit for many reasons. If you are interested in this article, we will tell you the most important thing about this unique avenue.

Here’s some info, for you to easily reach this fantastic pastry:

PASTELERÍA HOFMANN

Carrer dels Flassaders 44, Born

Telephone: 932 68 82 21

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, from 9am to 8pm.

Fridays and Saturdays, from 9am to 2pm, and from 3:30pm to 8:30pm.

Sundays, from 9am to 2:30pm.

Links: Web / Instagram / Facebook

TODAY WE GO TO: RARO (SAGRADA FAMILIA) 0 (0)

TODAY WE GO TO: RARO (SAGRADA FAMILIA) 0 (0)

Just over 200 meters away from the icon of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, is Raro (Carrer de Roselló 407): an antibistro where nicely poured Czech beer, delicious food at a very good price and the extraordinary good vibes of its owners, make this place an excellent stop before or after the mandatory visit to Gaudí’s work.

If you are one of those who want to know a little more, be sure to click on the Sagrada Familia and the Hospital de Sant Pau, for more info.

This finding dates back to the time when we lived near the Sagrada Familia.

It was warm and we were walking back from our jobs, in a very good mood favored by the nice weather and the good vibes of the city; and, adapted as we are to certain Spanish customs, we decided to stop at a bar for a couple of beers before locking ourselves up at home.

And there we saw it. Small, well decorated and with its pretty curious name, especially if we consider that food is served there: “RARO” (means “weird” or “rare” in spanish).

We were immediately seduced by the small bar that overlooked the street, we sat down on the two high stools that seemed to be waiting for us, and ordered what we were looking for: a couple of very cold beers.

What a good surprise

Just arriving at the door, we made an important discovery: the beer was no regular one, here, the beer was Urquell.

The world’s first pilsner. Czech; which is already a declaration of intent (and in this case, with this beer the intent is golden, fresh, refreshing, delicious, excellent).

The experience of drinking an Urquell becomes more intense (if possible) if it is served in that very cold glass, and by a Czech. In this case his name is Radim, one of the owners, who immediately treated us with great sympathy.

As we are chatty people (quite a lot), we soon found ourselves telling each other adventures and misadventures, and so we learned that Radim had lived in Barcelona for years, that they had opened with Rocío, his partner (a charming Argentine girl), this “anti-bistro” they called Raro, just a few months ago.

After having both worked in hospitality for many years, they felt that it was time to start their own project, and we, along with all their clients, thank them, because everything they serve is great.

Raro???

The name “Raro” comes from the combination of their names; “Ra” of Radim, “Ro” of Rocío. But we believe that it is also a play on words: it is also “Raro” (in this case, “rare”) to find such a good combination of quality, service and good price.

This business was their opportunity to bring people closer to what they knew how to do so well: cook and serve their customers, in their own space, with their own ideas and flavors. Flavors reminiscent of Argentina, the Czech Republic, and also Spanish. All combined to give us tasty, generous dishes at a more than affordable price.

And so it conquered us: with warmth and good beer. In time, we returned to try their meals. And each time they surprised us with fresh products, cooked with dedication and affection, beautifully presented. And they have already become part of our weekly routine. And why not say it, we also became friends.

Raro has a lot to offer: starting with the drinks. Really, it is a pleasure to be able to have a cold poured Urquell in the middle of Barcelona. Care for the quality of the product is key to guarantee a good beer.

But if this is not your thing, there is much more: very good coffee, rich varieties of teas, wines, gin and tonic, a “gazpacho” awarded nationally (which they serve in the summer) and if you take a walk in the middle of winter, a spicy hot wine that takes the cold away and comforts deliciously.

Raro’s menu is not too extensive, nor is it always the same. Its owners seek to discover new flavors and ideas, to bring to their customers.

There is a very good selection of starters, to share or snack. The homemade sweet potato chips with their dressing, or the carrot hummus, are fantastic.

Then come the main dishes: varieties of sandwiches, and its big star: the 200 grams burger, a fresh and fluffy homemade bread, brie cheese, bacon, onion, dried tomatoes, arugula and lamb’s lettuce, accompanied by fried potatoes. In few places we have been able to savor a burger so rich and with such power. And above all, at the price offered by Raro. Amazing.

For those nostalgic Argentines, there is also a variety of “empanadas” and a generous “milanesa” on their menu.

Desserts and farewell

Be careful, do not get full before desserts arrive!

Because the pastries that Rocío makes are amazing and you deserve to try them. It can vary every day: the brownie, a cheescake, cookies, carrotcake or the red velvet … whatever you find available that day, make sure to go for it.

I must confess that sweets are not my forte, I tend to get a little bit sick with them. But Rocío and her sweets have earned a place in my little heart.

The taste of homemade food, especially if it’s made with passion, never disappoints.

And when you think that’s all, that the experience was great and you are ready to take a nap, the best closing comes, shared with its owners. Because that is what makes Raro a very special place: feeling at home, with friends.

Rocío and Radim, generous and careful with their people, invite you to that last shot of a cherry distillate, very Czech and very cold, which makes you fully understand the concept of hospitality, and which invites you to repeat the visit always.

If you want to enjoy this must-see place, just around the corner from Sagrada Familia, here’s their info:

RARO ANTI-BISTRÓ

Carrer de Roselló 407 bis, Sagrada Familia, Eixample

Telephone 930 27 58 05

Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday from 12pm to 11pm

Links: Instagram / Facebook

Calçots: how we live this Catalan tradition in Barcelona 0 (0)

Calçots: how we live this Catalan tradition in Barcelona 0 (0)

Winter is usually the low season for Barcelona (but not for calçots!).You can feel it in its streets and especially on its beaches. We know that we all like to travel in the summer, when it’s hot, especially if our destination is on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. In those days, Barcelona overflows with people of all nationalities, speaking all possible languages, filling every corner of the city.

But from November the landscape changes, and so does Barna’s rhythm. The city feels more “local” and, although it’s beginning to get colder, it is a pleasure to get lost in the streets of this city that always has something to offer to those who want to know it.

Calçots con salsa romesco

For those winter adventurers, there is a gastronomic surprise that only, and I emphasize ONLY can be enjoyed when it is cold. A very Catalan tradition, which has become a ritual and that you must try if you are in Barcelona: the calçots!

From November to the end of April we are lucky to be able to gobble down a good “calçotada”. The ideal plan: get out of Barcelona, ​​and in one of the typical farmhouses, called “masias”, found throughout Catalonia, savor this delicacy. You will find that these places are full of locals that usually share this feast with friends and family; and as it is full, it’s always good to book in advance because demand is high, especially on weekends.

NOW WHAT IS A CALÇOT?

It is a type of sweet onion, with a little bulb. It has an elongated shape and this is due to the peculiar form of cultivation that is used to obtain it.

It all starts in late fall and early winter, when the seed is planted. The variety that is most popular is the “large Lérida onion”.

When June arrives, the cultivation will be finished. Result: a white onion. Hence, the next step is to remove it from the soil and let its leaves and roots dry. What we will have is the bulb. And it is from these bulbs that the calçots will be born, that we can enjoy in almost all the restaurants in Barcelona. Or at home, of course.

Therefore, the bulb is planted between August and October and allowed to grow. When the new shoots are obtained, it is time to apply the technique that gives them their name: they are “wedged” (in spanish the word is “calza”; in catalan “calça”). What does this mean?. Well, it’s very simple. Soil is placed around the base to whiten those outbreaks. This is repeated about three or four times, with the aim of lengthening the white part of the onion, until it reaches about 15 or 20 centimeters long. For each bulb you can get between 4 and 12 calçots.

Harvesting is fast and occurs between January and March, approximately.

AN BUMPY START

One of the most widespread versions of the origin of “calçot” as food, takes place in the 19th century. It is said that a peasant from Valls, in the province of Tarragona, named Xat de Benaiges put the onions on the grill, but they burned. Instead of throwing them away, he discovered that by removing the charred exterior, a tender and very tasty delicacy was hidden inside.

Calçots al fuego en Barcelona

TODAY, EATING CALÇOTS IS A WONDERFUL RITUAL.

The menu of a “calçotada”, as God commands, includes the “calçots” themselves, as the fist course (it could not be otherwise). They are cooked in the living flame, made with vine branch wood.

They arrive at the table served on tiles and accompanied by two sauces: the “salvitxada” and the “romesco” sauce. They are often confused because they share ingredients, such as toast bread, almonds, oil, or garlic. Anyway, both are incredible and are the perfect accompaniment.

Now, let’s eat! And here neither knives nor forks are worth. Hands are our best allies. You have to remove all the burned layer that covers the “calçot”, then dip it in the sauce, lift it over your head, open your mouth … and be happy. It is logical that, with such a technique, a lot of sauce ends up on our bibs.

Comiendo calçots en Barcelona

For this reason, a fundamental element, which they will give you in any restaurant you go to eat, is a giant “bib”: it protects our clothes and allows us to be free to eat without worries.

Once the first part is finished, in which you can eat about 20 “calçots” per person, the second dish arrives. Hands washed and meat at the table: there is never a shortage of “butifarras” (the catalonian sausages), but there can also be different cuts of pork, veal and other sausages. These meats are cooked with the embers that were left after the “calçots” were cooked.

And all well accompanied by local wines or a good cava. Nothing more Catalan than this!

So now you know: if your trip to Barcelona finds you in the dead of winter, don’t forget to make a place on your agenda for some “calçots”: it is not only about eating delicious food, it is also taking part in a tradition that is alive and healthy.

Sources: elhuertourbano.net / calsots.com

TODAY WE GO TO: TASCA EL CORRAL (Gothic Quarter) 0 (0)

TODAY WE GO TO: TASCA EL CORRAL (Gothic Quarter) 0 (0)

In the heart of Carrer Mercé in the Gothic Quarter, is Tasca El Corral (Carrer de la Mercé 17), a tavern where tapas full of flavor and one of the best priced homemade vermouths at in Barcelona, ​​are the protagonists.

WINTER NIGHT IN BARCELONA

We did this visit on a typical Catalan winter night, with the desire to go out and eat something delicious in the Old Town of the city.

If we think about it, there’s no better plan than to get to TASCA EL CORRAL, in the Gothic Quarter, on Carrer Mercé. A place that never fails, where you always feel welcome and there is a guarantee of good drinking and eating.

It is enough to arrive at its door (rather a gate) of heavy and dark wood, and to see through the windows a tavern that seems to travel back in time, to realize that it is a place to know and try. And it’s not just an aesthetic issue: Tasca El Corral has been part of this street and the neighborhood for more than 40 years.

Its walls demonstrate it: they are full of old images, pennants, decorated plates and curious objects, which give it a warmth and a more than special atmosphere. An environment that is embedded in the traditions when it is revealed to us with hams hanging from the ceiling, or with the bar covered by cheeses, olives, sausages… and how could it be otherwise, surrounded by a good variety of bottles.

We only have to find a table, sit on its very rustic wooden benches (which are not the most comfortable and firm you can find), and start enjoying.

A VERMOUTH?

And of course, the initial order must be the Vermouth.

Ordering a glass, or why not, a whole bottle, you will notice three things that will make you happy. First, that the Tasca el Corral vermouth is homemade, second that it is delicious … and third that it is at a very good price !!

Of course, if you are more of a beer o wine person, here you can order whatever you want. In this bar, alcohol is not lacking, and the atmosphere begins to take shape.

There is something you will ever find in this place: groups of friends meeting and having a great time.

The place is a big “L” and in its second part, after the bathroom, is where the room with the most tables is located. You will see that these are long and spacious, so they invite memorable meetings.

If the place is full you can you can share the table with others: it is a great opportunity to meet new people while enjoying the music of a group of artists, who often play and sing to have fun and delight everyone present.

So in this bar it is not strange to be surrounded by celebrations, birthdays, bachelor parties or any event that brings together people who want to have fun and toast. And since we are talking about toasting, other drinks  that regulars enjoy around these tables are “Leche de pantera” (we can translate this as “panther milk”) or poured cider, something very typical of Asturias, but also enjoyed in these lands.

Pink Panther

If you are wondering at the moment what Panther Milk is, here are some facts.

It is a very Spanish cocktail, famous in the 70s, that contains two basic and main ingredients that are milk and gin, although some can use condensed milk to make it thicker and interesting.

There are varieties that also include, egg white and cinnamon, and in reality, most of the bars that serve this drink have their own recipe.

Here, in Tasca El Corral, a very pink one is served, which makes us think more about the mythical cartoon. Unlike this one, this pink panther is not suitable for children!

AND NOW LET’S EAT

Once the vermouth has arrived at the table, now we only have to order the food.

On the menu you will see that you can choose between a variety of hot or cold tapas (Iberian ham, a variety of cheeses, the inevitable “tortilla”/omelette, “morcilla”, chorizo ​​and more) and “torradas” (Pagés bread toast with different ingredients, such as tuna, anchovies, cheeses, peppers, etc.).

We made our minds quite quickly, and we asked for some classics: “chorizo ​​a la diabla” (like a devil´s chorizo), “tortilla” and two “Catalans” who can never miss: tapa of fuet and bread with tomato!

If you are one of those who want to know a little more, be sure to click on the Fuet and the Bread with Tomatoes, to have more info.

The dishes were arriving at the table, and the scents and flavors conquered us with speed and without effort. The softness of the warm and juicy “tortilla”, the Catalan fuet that never disappoints (well, at least it never disappointed us in Tasca el Corral), the bread, which always goes perfectly… but the one that most impacts, without a doubt, is the “chorizo ​​a la diabla”.

The simple ritual of lighting the fire and burning it on the table is already tempting. With patience, the chorizo ​​is moved with a knife to ensure that the alcohol evaporates and the product absorbs all the flavor. It is crispy on the outside, the aroma is incredible and its intense flavor is something you can not stop trying.

YOUNG AND VERY GOOD VIBRA ENVIRONMENT

Everything that happens in Tasca El Corral has good energy, a nice vibe: from the staff that attends you, friendly and always well-prepared, to the customers, who are always having a good time.

Even the doors of the services speak of the connection between the bar and its visitors. When you get closer you will see that they are covered with passport photos of everyone who passes by. So if you want to leave your mark in this place, do not hesitate to bring yours.

And when paying at the bar, even tips are fun: you have to put the coins in an old shoe, which hangs on the wall behind the bar. Something  a little bit difficult to overcome after drinking as it should at Tasca El Corral.

If you want to enjoy this Barcelona classic, we leave you with their details:

TASCA EL CORRAL

Carrer de La Mercè 17, Gothic Quarter

Telephone 933 15 20 59

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Saturdays and Sundays the closing is at 02:30 am

Link: Web / Facebook

AROUND TASCA EL CORRAL

Tasca El Corral is located in the Gothic Quarter, the birth area of ​​Barcelona and today the city’s mandatory tourist center. And the street is Carrer de la Mercè, which has a lot of life, more than anything nightlife.

It is a street to take into account because it has a varied offer of bars and restaurants, which make it a very good destination for those who are looking for a little bustle at Barna nights.

The name comes from the old neighborhood of La Mercè, so called because it contained the convent of the same name, whose church would later become a parish.

The first convent of the Order of Mercè was installed in the mid-13th century (where the General Captaincy is today); and today we can see the church, which had just been built during the 18th century with its dome topped with the image of the Virgen de la Mercè (iconic element of the Barcelona skyline) very close to Tasca el Corral.

An interesting fact for moviegoers: the film “The Perfum” was filmed mostly in Barcelona and Plaça de la Mercè was one of its stages; that is where the protagonist, Jean-Baptiste, was born, under the counter selling the fish from the Parisian market Rue aux Fers.

The streets of the neighborhood knew to be one of the areas of residence of the Barcelona aristocracy during the 18th century, and some of the buildings in the area are testimony to this.

If you like architecture a lot, and you are walking around the neighborhood, we leave you this information: walk to Carrer Ample (the first street parallel to carrer de la Mercè, towards the mountain) and look at number 28 for the Palacio Sessa-Larrard, built between 1772-1778 by the architect Josep Rivas i Margarit..

At that time, it became the home for the Viceroy of Catalonia and Duke of Sessa. The second name, Larrard, will arrive when the building was bought by Joan de Larrard, in 1799, wealthy banker and consul of Denmark. Today it is a school, but its presence tells us that in those years, this wide street (hence its name) was the place where mansions and palaces of the wealthiest families in the city were built.

And this is our article on Tasca el Corral. We hope that we have awakened the desire to try what these people have to offer, that the information we leave you will help you visit this fantastic place and that you tell us about your experience when trying their tapas and drinks.

Greetings and good vibes!

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