I’m wrapping up this series with a few food recommendations — places where you can enjoy local cuisine without overspending, plus one spot for those seeking a fine dining experience.

In the previous posts, I cover how to plan a trip to Barcelona, where to stay, how to use public transport, what to see in terms of art, architecture, basilicas, and cathedrals, and what tourist traps to avoid.

Barcelona Travel Series – Part 6 | Reading time: 2 minutes

La Boqueria – Market, Flavor, and Atmosphere

Don’t miss stopping by La Boqueria — not just for shopping, but for the lively atmosphere and delicious food. The market dates back to the 13th century and originally served as a trading ground for meat and produce. Today, it’s a covered gastronomic hub that attracts locals, tourists, and street food lovers alike.

You’ll find everything on the stalls: fried seafood, fresh fish, sausages, fruits, vegetables, sweets, and exotic bites. We chose to sit down at Bar Central, a small eatery inside the market. We had a generous lunch and shared a bottle of Verdejo.

https://www.tiktok.com/@placescases/video/7526467804988493078

El Nacional – Many Flavors Under One Roof

Another great spot that doesn’t require a reservation is El Nacional — a spacious venue housing several restaurants and bars inside a former industrial building, now transformed into a stylish culinary destination.

After checking out the options, we chose La Taperia, a restaurant focused on traditional Catalan tapas. There was a short wait for a table, but it was absolutely worth it. The menu offers nearly all the must-try local favorites:

• Pa amb tomàquet
• Pimientos de Padrón
• Ous trencats
• several types of paella
• and desserts like Crema Catalana, among other specialties

https://www.tiktok.com/@placescases/video/7527046792383434006

Deliri – Fine Dining with Attention to Detail

For a special occasion, we chose Deliri, a restaurant recommended by the Michelin Guide and one of the few fine dining spots open on Sundays. We were celebrating an important family event and were the first guests that evening. The welcome was polite, but the beginning felt a bit awkward — the waiter asked me to remove my blazer as soon as I sat down, even though it wasn’t an overcoat or informal garment. I explained that I was cold and preferred to keep it on. The ventilation remained strong, and the attitude, somewhat distant.

Our table was near the open kitchen, where I had a chance to observe the team in action — focused, calm, and precise. Head chef David Morera noticed something was off and responded with sensitivity and professionalism. He sent over a server to ask how we were enjoying our meal. Once it became clear there had been some tension, he offered to prepare a personalized tasting menu and apologized for the earlier discomfort.

The chef didn’t just create a memorable dinner — he also took time to connect with us on a personal level. Before we left, we had a relaxed conversation about the work behind the scenes, the team’s process, and the culinary philosophy they follow. Thanks to his care and intuition, the evening turned into something special.

Deliri is a place where food is truly treated as art — and where hospitality still matters. If you value refined flavors and thoughtful service, it’s well worth making a reservation.

https://www.tiktok.com/@placescases/video/7527317105658580246

Where to Stay in the city of Barcelona?

I recommend booking your stay directly here. For your convenience, I’ve included a map box showing available rooms in hotels, apartments, and other accommodations. You support the blog at no extra cost and still get all your Genius and other discounts!

Personal recommendation: Leonardo Royal Hotel Fira – a business hotel with a rooftop pool, located in a more peripheral district near administrative buildings and the exhibition center. The word Fira means “fair” in Catalan.

Although it’s not in the city center, the area is well connected to the main tourist attractions via public transport.

You can read more in the post: “Leonardo Royal Fira – Business Hotel with Rooftop Pool in a Peripheral Neighborhood of Barcelona.”

Catch up on the previous parts of this Barcelona series to help you plan your trip easily and stress-free. I hope these tips have been useful, practical, and inspiring — so you can experience the city not just as a tourist, but as a true traveler.

Follow the blog and social media on Instagram, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, X, TikTok, and here, because another exciting travelogue is coming up — this time with tips for a great experience in none other than Milan.