Traditional Catalan cuisine features a range of incredible foods, and among the most renowned are calçots – a unique cross between a spring onion and a leek. This culinary gem, typically enjoyed between December and March, brings a delightful warmth to the table.
Prepared over an open fire, the outer layer is charred and then skillfully removed, uncovering a delectable, tender, and slightly sweet centre. A delightful condiment called romesco accompanies this dish and truly enhances the flavours of the calçots. Made from a blend of almonds, fried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt, the pairing is truly incredible.
Are you intrigued by the iconic calçots? If so, join us as we discover the finest locations in Barcelona to savour this exquisite delicacy!
1. Restaurante Carmen
Restaurante Carmen is renowned for its tapas, paella, and grilled meats, but what truly sets it apart is its exceptional calçots. Throughout the winter months, the restaurant presents a dedicated calçotada menu, allowing patrons to indulge in a genuinely traditional dining experience.
At the core of Restaurante Carmen’s culinary philosophy is a commitment to authenticity. To achieve this, the restaurant selects locally sourced ingredients for every dish, resulting in a truly spectacular dining experience.
Location: C/ de Valladolid, 44, Sants-Montjuïc, 08014 Barcelona
2. Can Cortès
Can Cortès is a tranquil paradise for Catalan cuisine. Located away from Barcelona’s bustling city centre, it offers a picturesque and serene setting to indulge in calçots. Here, their aim is simple, to craft dishes that evoke the same feeling as a homemade meal from your grandmother!
Priced at just under 40€ per person, you can savour the essence of Catalan delicacies through their calçotada menu. Opting for this menu ensures a generous serving of calçots, a choice between a grilled meat or cod main course, a delightful Catalan dessert, all accompanied by bread, wine, and coffee. Doesn’t that sound like a heavenly culinary experience?
Location: Av. de Can Cortés, 36, 08196 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
3. Can Travi Nou
Located within a rustic Catalan farmhouse, this delightful restaurant is a haven for those seeking exceptional traditional gastronomy. Boasting over 30 years in the industry, Can Travi Nou promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Although the prices may be slightly higher than at other establishments, the ambiance of this restaurant is unmatched. Furthermore, the outstanding quality of their cuisine makes every penny worthwhile. You can indulge in their delectable calçots by selecting their calçotada menu – an option that is sure to leave a lasting impression!
Also, the location of this venue makes it the perfect destination for a romantic date, or for celebrating a special occasion!
Location: Carrer de Jorge Manrique, s/n, Horta-Guinardó, 08035 Barcelona
4. Can Martí Restaurant
Another beautiful establishment offering this Catalan delicacy is Can Martí. Although it is situated slightly further from Barcelona’s city centre, it is truly worth the journey.
This restaurant specialises in offering seasonal and authentic Mediterranean dishes, and promises a truly perfect calçot dining experience. Offering a calçotada menu at just 34€, this restaurant provides the fantastic opportunity to delve into Catalan cuisine without breaking the bank.
Notably, the establishment has undergone a renovation, transforming it into a truly charming restaurant. A delightful garden adorned with beautiful fairy lights also awaits you here, making it an ideal spot, not only for enjoying calçots, but also for any special dinner!
Location: Passatge de la Font del Mont, 4, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08017 Barcelona
5. La Foixarda
For those seeking to savour calçots whilst taking in a breathtaking city view, we strongly suggest a visit to La Foixarda. Nestled in Montjuïc, this outstanding restaurant presents a diverse selection of delicious tapas and incredible paella. Driven by their passion for showcasing authentic Catalan cuisine, this dining spot is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the amazing flavours of calçots.
Location: Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, Sants-Montjuïc, 08038 Barcelona
6. L’Antic Forn
Located in El Raval, this intimate restaurant specialises in a variety of dishes, with a primary focus on authentic Catalan favourites, including the delightful calçots. At L’Antic Forn, authenticity is the main priority, promising an evening filled with excellent food and fine wine.
When indulging in their calçots, they go the extra mile by providing an apron and gloves, ensuring that you can fully relish the experience without concerns about making a mess. The ambiance is genuinely delightful, offering the chance to savour genuine Catalan dishes crafted from top-notch ingredients.
Location: C/ del Pintor Fortuny, 28, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
7. El Pintor
For those who wish to stay closer to Barcelona’s city centre, consider El Pintor. Situated in the vibrant Gothic Quarter, this Catalan restaurant stands as a true embodiment of authentic Catalan cuisine. Here, you can delight in an array of traditional dishes, ranging from paella and grilled meats, to of course, the renowned calçots. Indulge in their calçotadas menu for 44.90€ and immerse yourself in the exquisite flavours of this beautiful delicacy.
The interior of the establishment is also traditional, characterised by exposed brick walls and a cosy ambiance, enhancing your calçots experience even further.
Location: Carrer de Sant Honorat, 7, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Each establishment offers a slightly unique experience, but they all pride themselves on serving incredible calçots! So, which restaurant will you visit first?
