Where to Find the Best Paella and Seafood in Barcelona

With the Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop, it comes as no surprise that Barcelona offers some of the best and freshest seafood around. And no trip to a Spanish city is complete without a taste of ‘paella’ – a traditional rice dish made with the best land or sea fare (typically prawns, squid, muscles, chicken, rabbit or vegetables). However, with great desire for this dish comes an abundance of eateries trying to do it justice. We know that not a lot of places can cook paella as it should be, oozing with flavour and rich ingredients. So, we’ve put together a list of some our favourite and most popular seafood and paella restaurants in Barcelona, so that all you have to worry about is the eating!

7 Portes

Featuring 7 distinct doors to which its name is attributed, 7 Portes offers some of the city’s most famous paella. Founded in 1836, this classic and timeless establishment is a favourite for both residents and tourists alike. While exuding an ‘old world’ feel, the restaurant offers traditional Catalan cooking creating a memorable dining experience. The impeccably dressed waiters offer unparalleled service and you can expect to receive generous portions, exploding with flavour. You only have to ask a local where to find good paella and they’ll most likely recommend this smart establishment. Head here for an elegant evening of crisp white linen table cloths, exquisite wine and of course, fantastic seafood. Make sure you book in advance!

Passeig d’Isabel II 14, 08003

La Mar Salada

In 1993, La Mar Salada opened in Port Vell, the harbour in the district of Barceloneta. Twenty years later, the fifth generation of the family whose hard work and passion brought the restaurant to life, has transformed the place into an unforgettable gastronomic experience. In recent years, La Mar Salada has positioned itself as one of the leading seafood restaurants in Barcelona. Some of their popular dishes include spectacular stews and paellas, like their black rice with cuttlefish and their ‘de senyoret’ rice with razorfish, monkfish and prawns.

Passeig de Joan de Borbó 58-59, 08003

El Suquet de l’Almirall

Located in the port of Barcelona, this restaurant’s philosophy is simple: prepare delicious seafood recipes using organic produce. In addition to the menu, which changes twice a year, there are also other seasonal suggestions. Some of their most famous dishes include cod fritters, fisherman’s macaroni, and of course, paella. The beach-like ambiance and fisherman’s decor make this place a very popular and inviting restaurant to enjoy some of the Med’s best fare!

Passeig de Joan de Borbó 65, 08003

La Muscleria 

Opened in 1997, this restaurant has 10 years of gastronomic and culinary experience. As the name suggests, their speciality is mussels, inspired by traditional Belgian cuisine and cooked in over 50 different ways. In addition to mussels, the menu also offers salads, tapas, freshly made coconut, and elaborate fish and seafood dishes. Located in the heart of La Dreta de l’Eixample, the informal and cosy atmosphere is inviting to locals and tourists alike, where they can enjoy some of the best mussels in town.

Carrer de Mallorca 290, 08037

La Gambeta

This much-adored establishment serves fresh fish and seafood in traditional Catalan and Mediterranean dishes, just yards from the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella in one of the most bustling and chic neighbourhoods of the city – El Born. Located in an arched original building, featuring rustic brickwork, this is the place to go for an evening of sophistication.  Fresh and creative dishes are served in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends. Afterwards, why not take an evening stroll around the park to walk off your feast!

Carrer de la Fusina 3, 08003

Restaurant Elche

For more than 50 years, the Iborra family has dedicated time and hard work to sharing the culinary culture of their home in Elche, in the Alicante Province. Bringing their passion and knowledge north to Barcelona, this temple for paella lovers was one of the first restaurants in the city to specialise in the traditional rice dish. It quickly gained a great reputation and is now one of the most popular and well-loved restaurants serving paella. Expect an evening of class, with dishes such as paella with cod and wild mushrooms or grilled sea bass.

Carrer de Vila i Vilà 71, 08004

Have we whet your appetite? Read about how you can indulge in a three-course lunch for just 10€ in our blog post about Menús del Día.