Location

El Nacional Barcelona is located in the prestigious street “Paseo de Gracia”. The building itself was constructed in 1889 to host a show room. After the Spanish Civil War, it served as a parking area before it was repurposed as a dining space. The restoration was led by top interior designer Lázaro Rosa Violán who was inspired by the 1930’s and 40’s. He preserved the assets of the building, to include the authentic skylights which allow the entrance of natural light. With more than 3,000 square feet, it can accommodate up to 770 guests. It is open everyday from 12.00 pm until 2.00 am. Given its history, El Nacional Barcelona place is now considered a modern architectural jewel of the city of Barcelona.

The Food

This innovative concept of El Nacional Barcelona offers the guest many different ways to dine. Their menu focuses on Spanish ingredients from the many diverse culinary regions of Spain. When we entered the building, it gave me the vibes of being at a trendy market. As I learned about the menu and indulged, I realized it is so much more.

El Nacional has 4 restaurants: La Braseria, La Llotja, La Taperia y La Paradeta. Additionally, the space has 5 bars where you can have beers, wine, cocktails, champagne, Oysters and even Russian caviar. All products are Spanish with the exception of the Champagne and Oysters from France and the caviar from Russia.

We chose to do a “Gourmet Stop” at La Paradeta

We got a very nice table and  ordered several plates from the menu. Marco Rocha, the manager of La Paradeta, was very kind to explain us the differences between “Cocas Artesanas” and “Cocas finas”. These are homemade pastries with different toppings.

All the dishes were delicious. I say try them all! Here are some of my favorites:

• • Desalted cod salad with Xató sauce, this is a typical Catalan dish. It is made with almonds, hazelnuts, breadcrumbs, vinegar, garlic, olive oil, salt, and the nyora pepper
  • Coca fina with veal carpaccio, parmesan and rocket
  • Noodles with “La Paradeta” Iberian sauce
  • 2 chocolate crepes
  • White cheesecake

El Nacional Barcelona: The Verdict

The staff was very friendly and professional. During our dining experience, we observed many people enjoying their experience at El Nacional Barcelona. The space is loved by tourists and locals alike. From what we observed, it is the place to be in Barcelona! Dining Traveler Tip: Reservations will be recommended as it is always busy even between lunch and dinner hours.

El Nacional Barcelona, Passeig de Gràcia, 24 bis 08007, Website 

The post El Nacional Barcelona: A Gastronomic Experience appeared first on The Dining Traveler.

Barça! If Barcelona hasn’t made it onto your travel checklist for 2017, don’t fret there’s still time to add it to the top of your list. This city has a culinary dedication to fresh ingredients, vibrant spices and sauces, and a respect for the entire experience that is sitting down to a table (or in some cases standing up) with those you love. I have always been an “appetizer person” aka I prefer to order a few small dishes over a traditional meal. So when I went to Quimet and Quimet, I was taken with all the delicious variety.

The Scene

I invite you to enter the lively world of Quimet and Quimet. This local neighborhood spot is tucked away on a quiet side street in El Pole-Sec, and at 11:30 AM it is already overflowing with patrons. Walls lined with wine bottles of all varieties greeted us along with Beatles tunes. A shiny silver counter filled with an assortment of vibrant ingredients drew us in. In addition to the silver counter that lines the establishment, there are adorable bar tables made from recycled kegs, perfect for crowding around with friends. The real excitement comes from the two smiling faces behind the counter, who are multitasking like nobody’s business- taking orders, pouring wine, whipping up bite sized delights … all while chitchatting with regulars sitting at the bar.

The Food

Initially I was a bit overwhelmed by all of the menu options, but with a little assistance from the friendly gentleman behind the counter I was able to nail down the following assortment of Montaditos (small sandwiches):

Prawns, Red Pepper, Cream, Caviar

Brie, Roasted Tomato, Anchovy, Olive Spread

Salmon, Yogurt, Truffled Honey

Goat Cheese, Sundried Tomato, Caramelized Onions

The foundation for each Montadito is a round crunchy biscuit, the perfect vessel for transporting all the toppings to your mouth, silverware free. I’m a huge fan of bagels and lox, so I had to start off with the Salmon Montadito.  The saltiness from the smoked salmon paired with the sweetness of the truffled honey is a match made in heaven. My other top pick from Quimet and Quimet was the Brie and Anchovy Montadito. It arrived topped with roasted tomato, an olive spread, and a drizzle of Spanish olive oil. If the idea of anchovies makes you a little nervous, don’t shy away; these ones are mild and not overly salty.

The Verdict

Quimet and Quimet has pairings down to a science. Whether you’re craving something acidic, or something rich, you’re going to leave happy thanks to their smart combinations. What sets these bites apart from others is the time that they put into preparing the ingredients individually. Hats off to you Quimet and Quimet, you have found a way to leave a lasting impression in under 3 bites, and I will definitely be back for more!  

Quimet and Quimet, Carrer del Poeta, Cabanyes, 25, 08004, Barcelona, Spain, Website 

The post Travel Eats: Quimet and Quimet Barcelona appeared first on The Dining Traveler.