The 8 Absolute Best Restaurants in Barcelona You Need to Experience

Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world, and for a good reason. It boasts some of the most amazing architecture, art, cultural experiences, cuisine, and more.

And after a world-class tour of the city, it will be time for a world-class meal. But with over 8,000 restaurants in Barcelona, it can be hard to know where to dine.

But don't worry. We've got you covered with our guide to the 8 absolute best restaurants in Barcelona that you need to experience.

One of the Best Restaurants in Barcelona: Uma

Located in the Eixample district, just outside of old town, you'll find one of the highest restaurants in Barcelona.

Its menu is inspired by international and Mediterranean fusion. It offers bold new takes on classics like foie gras. And it has a highly rated wine pairing.

Iker Erauzkin is the chef behind Uma And for diners interested in a truly immersive experience, you can book a cooking class with the chef himself.

One reviewer said, "It becomes obvious from the small details that Iker Erauzkin and his team are dedicated to delivering the perfect dining experience... the entire experience was amazing."

Santa Rita Experience

In the outskirts of Old Town and the Eixample district, just down the street from the Arc de Triomf, you'll find Santa Rita.

The menu is made up of Mediterranean and Spanish inspired dishes. And the dining experience is remarkable. The restaurant has two small tables and one large one where guests can sit with other parties and enjoy a communal meal.

A recent visitor said "This is one of those places and experiences where you take a photo of every plate you are served. The chef explains what each dish is, and explains the flavors. The combinations are exciting and unique... get there early if you want to sit at the large table and meet people from around the world."

El Tablao de Carmen

Near Parc de Montjuic you'll have a truly immersive dining experience at El Tablao de Carmen. It's a living tribute to the legendary flamenco dancer, Carmen Amaya. It was originally founded by a close friend of Carmen.

Visitors to El Tablao de Carmen enjoy an authentic flamenco show and a meal.

Guests can purchase a pass for the 6:00 or 8:30 flamenco show and are served dinner, tapas, and drinks.

One reviewer said, "I wish I could give 10 stars! Our group had 10 people ranging from 29-83 in age and we all loved the flamenco and tapas!! The show was captivating! The food was delightful! The service was incredible... [and] amazing!! Must do while you are in Barcelona!"

Enoteca Paco Perez

Located inside the Hotel Arts Barcelona and led by the chef (you guessed it) Paco Perez, is Enoteca.

Perez' career in cuisine began at the young age of 12 when he started cooking for the family tapas restaurant. It was there that his love of traditional Spanish food was born.

Enocta pays homage to the chef's youth. It offers a Mediterranean, European, and Spanish inspired menu with wine pairings.

This two Michelin star restaurant deserves all the acclaim it receives.

One visitor said, "This restaurant deserves the two stars. We had the tasting menu with the Spanish wine pairing. Everything was on point and the food was delicious. There were little waiting and the presentation, portion size and [the] taste was perfect. A special Thank you to the waiters we had for the evening, who was really helpful and funny."

Rao Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

For a modern take on traditional Spanish cuisine, visit Rao Restaurant & Cocktail Bar.

You can order one of the European classics like duck breast or scallops. Or you can opt for something with a little more Catalonian flair like the paella or bravas.

One reviewer said, "Rao is probably the best restaurant in Barcelona... With an atmosphere perfectly placed between fine dining & casual, food perfectly balanced between tapas & main courses, all at reasonable prices, Rao is a force to be reckoned with on the BCN culinary scene!"

Viana

In the heart of the Gothic Quarter and old town, you'll find Viana, one of the highest rated restaurants in all of Barcelona.

It's only been open since 2015 but it already has over 1,600 five star reviews on trip advisor.

But they don't need to brag about reviews, the food does all the talking for them.

Some of the most popular menu items are the beef cheek, blackberry mojito, and chocolate trio.

One guest wrote, "We lucked out and were able to walk into this restaurant (albeit at 10:30 pm) and the owner told us we should play the lottery. We were happy with our luck because this was the best meal we had in Barcelona"

Teoric Taverna Gastronomica

Teoric Taverna is said to be one of the best Catalan Restaurants in Spain.

With their focus on sea and mountain food experiences, they provide locally sourced food in a beautiful environment.

One visitor said, "I stopped in here for lunch on the recommendation of a local friend... Everything was totally delicious. The wait staff was attentive, informative, and completely wonderful. I liked it that they took such pride in presenting gastronomic Catalan dishes. Everything is small plates, which I personally enjoy. The recommendations were perfection."

Chivuo's Slow Street Food & Craft Beer

If you're looking for a more casual dining option, look no further than Chivuo's. With a few locations across Barcelona, you won't be hard-pressed to find one.

They boast the best pulled pork sandwich in the city and a wide selection of craft beers. Their menu also offers fries, a burger, tuna melt, chicken sandwich, and Philly cheese steak sandwich.

One reviewer said "I had the pulled pork burger with wedges covered in cheese and bacon! Was YUM! There are about eight different beers to choose from...Definitely worth going! There was plenty of staff, all of which were very lovely! Which always counts! We sat chatting after for about an hour, very welcoming!"

Remember This!

If you visit one of the best restaurants in Barcelona you never have to worry about having an unforgettable meal.