30 Best Paellas in Barcelona (2024) – Must-Try Restaurants

Barcelona might be famous for its architecture and beaches, but its paella is a culinary star in its own right. The city’s restaurants serve up some of the most authentic and delicious paella you’ll ever taste.

I live in Spain and have spent a lot of time in Barcelona, exploring its vibrant food scene and, let me tell you, the paella here is something else.

But with so many places claiming to have the ‘best paella in Barcelona,’ where do you actually go to try this iconic Spanish dish? Well, stick with me, and I’ll guide you through the city’s top spots for paella – places where the rice is perfectly cooked, the flavors are rich, and each bite transports you to culinary heaven.

Best paella in Barcelona

Given how many tourist traps there are here, especially in the city center, knowing just where to find restaurants with some of the best paella in Barcelona is key for giving yourself a great culinary experience.

I’ve listed my favorites from all over the city below, to make sure that you’re always near a great spot, no matter where you are. However, if you want to really take your experience to the next level, why not learn how to make your own paella?

That way, not only will you get to enjoy eating it on the day, but you can recreate it once you go back home!

1. Palo Cortao

📍 LOCATION: Gràcia

SPECIALTY: Known for its superb seafood paella and an extensive selection of sherry wines, Palo Cortao is perfect for a food lover looking to enjoy a sophisticated dining experience.

If you want to savor the best seafood paella Barcelona has to offer, let me tell you, Palo Cortao is your spot. The combination of perfectly cooked rice, fresh seafood, and that authentic Mediterranean flavor will transport you to culinary heaven. 

And don’t forget to pair your paella with a glass of their exceptional sherry. The depth and complexity of flavors will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. 

You won’t just leave with a satisfied stomach but with a tantalizing taste still lingering on your tongue.

2. The Paella Club

📍 LOCATION: Poble-Sec

SPECIALTY: The Paella Club isn’t just about tasting the dish, it’s about the whole cooking experience, making it a perfect place for gastronomy enthusiasts looking for hands-on involvement with this great cooking class in Barcelona.

Calling all foodie adventurers! At The Paella Club, you’re not just indulging in a delicious meal – you’re becoming a part of it. 

From the selection of ingredients to the final cooking process, this is one of the best paella cooking classes in Barcelona.

3. Bodega Joan

📍 LOCATION: Eixample

SPECIALTY: This casual, family-friendly restaurant is known for its delectable Paella Mixta and a well-curated selection of local wines.

When you’re roaming the charming streets of Eixample, don’t miss the chance to visit Bodega Joan, a hidden gem in Barcelona. Known for its Paella Mixta, this place serves up a mouthwatering combination of chicken, rabbit, and shellfish on a bed of perfectly seasoned rice. 

But that’s not all – Bodega Joan has an excellent selection of local wines, each one a delicious complement to your meal. It’s like your own mini wine tour of Barcelona, so come with your family, grab a spot, and enjoy an unforgettable meal under the Spanish sun.

4. Arosseria Xátiva

📍 LOCATION: Les Corts

SPECIALTY: Arosseria Xátiva stands out for its Valencian-style paella, cooked over wood fires, making it a top pick for traditionalists.

If you’re a traditionalist at heart and craving some authentic Valencian-style paella, then look no further than Arosseria Xátiva. Their paella, cooked over wood fires, bursts with flavors, and the smoky aroma will awaken your senses even before you take the first bite. 

Arosseria Xátiva uses the highest quality rice and freshest ingredients, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey in each dish. Paired with their homely ambiance and excellent service, your dining experience here will be something to remember and recommend.

5. La Donzella

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Situated by the sea, La Donzella is loved for its picturesque views and indulgent seafood paella, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.

Imagine this – savoring a flavorful, creamy seafood paella while gazing out at the sparkling Mediterranean. Sounds dreamy, right? 

Well, at La Donzella, this isn’t just a dream. Their seafood paella, a feast of fresh prawns, mussels, and clams mixed into succulent rice, is a pure delight. 

And if you’re lucky, you might even get a table with a beautiful sea view. With its romantic setting, mouth-watering dishes, and the sound of waves lapping in the distance, La Donzella is definitely a date-night favorite for locals and tourists alike.

6. Restaurant Envalira

📍 LOCATION: Gràcia

SPECIALTY: This homely, neighborhood favorite is renowned for its large portion sizes and incredibly flavorful paella, a haven for true comfort food lovers.

Restaurant Envalira is the embodiment of hearty, home-cooked meals with a touch of Spanish magic. Their paella is an overflowing feast of flavors, generous with seafood, and perfectly seasoned rice that will leave you craving more. 

The portion sizes are something to rave about – so, ensure you go with an empty stomach! Its warm and cozy setting provides the perfect backdrop for a laid-back evening of enjoying comfort food at its best. 

With friendly staff and a local ambiance, you’ll feel right at home at Envalira.

7. Diània

📍 LOCATION: Eixample

SPECIALTY: Diània is the place to go if you’re after a modern twist on traditional paella, offering innovative creations for the experimental foodie.

For those looking for a contemporary take on classic Spanish cuisine, Diània is the place to be. It serves up traditional paella but with a unique and modern twist. 

Think innovative combinations, unexpected flavors, and visually stunning presentations. The stylish and trendy ambiance perfectly complements the food, making for a truly chic dining experience. 

At Diània, the classic paella gets an exciting makeover, making it a must-visit destination for the adventurous gourmand.

8. Minyam

📍 LOCATION: El Raval

SPECIALTY: Minyam shines in its vegan-friendly paella options, ensuring that plant-based food lovers don’t have to miss out on this Spanish classic.

In the heart of El Raval, Minyam is a paradise for vegan and vegetarian foodies. Who said paella has to be all about seafood or meat? 

Instead, Minyam puts a green spin on this classic dish, plating up a plant-based paella that is every bit as tasty and flavorful as its traditional counterparts. Every spoonful is a celebration of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, a must-try even for non-vegans. 

So, if you’re in search of a delicious paella with a healthy twist, Minyam is the place to go.

9. 7 Portes

📍 LOCATION: Ciutat Vella

SPECIALTY: With over 180 years of history, 7 Portes is iconic for its time-honored recipes and historic charm, offering an exquisite paella experience for history buffs.

If you’re looking to combine a history tour with a culinary exploration, then 7 Portes is your dream come true. Established in 1836, this historic restaurant has been serving up traditional Catalan cuisine, including the renowned paella, for nearly two centuries. 

Every bite takes you back in time, offering a unique taste of Barcelona’s culinary history. The ambiance is classy, the service is impeccable, and the paella is divine, all of which make 7 Portes an absolute must-visit.

10. Cruix

📍 LOCATION: Sant Antoni

SPECIALTY: Cruix is renowned for its sophisticated, gourmet paella and an overall modern gastronomic experience, ideal for food connoisseurs seeking a bit of luxury.

Cruix isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a gastronomic adventure. Here, paella is transformed into a gourmet spectacle, and every plate is a work of art. 

The dishes at Cruix feature a harmonious blend of traditional elements and avant-garde creativity. The modern, minimalistic décor adds to the overall upscale dining experience, making it a go-to destination for those special occasion dinners. 

If you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious paella experience, make sure to book a table at Cruix.

11. Terraza Martínez

📍 LOCATION: Montjuïc

SPECIALTY: Terraza Martínez is a star for its fantastic panoramic views of Barcelona and a delightful seafood paella, making it a perfect spot for Instagram enthusiasts and foodies alike.

If dining alfresco with breathtaking views of the city sounds like your kind of thing, then you cannot miss Terraza Martínez. Found on the beautiful Montjuïc hill, this place promises more than just a delicious meal – it offers a complete sensory experience. 

Enjoy their delectable seafood paella as you soak in panoramic vistas of Barcelona’s skyline. It’s an Instagrammer’s paradise, combining stunning visuals with heavenly flavors. Terraza Martínez isn’t just a dining spot, it’s a lifestyle!

12. Hotel Restaurant La Ciudadela

📍 LOCATION: Ciutat Vella

SPECIALTY: Located in a historic hotel, this restaurant offers a rustic dining experience with a family recipe paella that has been passed down through generations.

How about dining in a restaurant that serves paella straight from a family recipe? Hotel Restaurant La Ciudadela, situated in a picturesque, historic hotel, offers just that! 

Each spoonful of their delicious paella holds the secrets of generations, creating a unique culinary experience that feels like a homecoming. 

The rustic charm of the dining area, paired with the warmth of the staff, adds to the overall cozy and comforting atmosphere. Trust me, this is a place where memories are made and cherished.

13. Cheriff

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Cheriff is renowned for its generous, loaded seafood paella that’s brimming with the freshness of the Mediterranean Sea.

Ahoy, seafood lovers! Cheriff, a true Barceloneta classic, is all about serving up the sea’s bounty on a plate. 

Their seafood paella, abundantly loaded with the freshest of catches, is a testament to their passion for the marine culinary arts. The inviting aroma, the vibrant colors, and the rich flavors of the paella here will leave you in awe of the ocean’s offering. 

With its homely setting and amiable service, Cheriff feels like a warm coastal embrace.

14. Can Solé

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Can Solé, a century-old establishment, prides itself on its authentic, traditional paella recipes, offering a taste of history to the discerning food lover.

Step back in time with Can Solé, a restaurant that’s been serving authentic paella for over a century. Their traditional paella recipes, passed down from generation to generation, promise an immersive culinary journey into Barcelona’s past. 

With its antique décor and historic charm, dining at Can Solé feels like a journey through a gastronomic time machine. So, grab a chair, soak in the history, and enjoy a deliciously nostalgic dining experience.

15. Restaurant Martínez

📍 LOCATION: Montjuïc

SPECIALTY: With its scenic hillside location and a variety of paella options, Restaurant Martínez is a top pick for those seeking variety and a view.

Situated on the scenic hillsides of Montjuïc, Restaurant Martínez offers not just a feast for the palate but also the eyes. It’s truly a haven for paella lovers, offering an impressive variety of options – from the classic seafood paella to inventive versions that’ll tickle your taste buds. 

As you enjoy the flavorful paella, soak in the stunning vistas of Barcelona’s beautiful skyline. Be it a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, Restaurant Martínez guarantees an unforgettable dining experience with a view.

16. Xiringuito Escribà

📍 LOCATION: Sant Martí

SPECIALTY: Located on the beachfront, Xiringuito Escribà is famous for its mesmerizing views of the sea and a truly indulgent Lobster Paella, an absolute treat for the luxury-loving foodie.

Xiringuito Escribà, with its toes in the sand and nose in the sea breeze, is the perfect seaside dining spot. Its paella takes the center stage here, especially the Lobster Paella, which is simply a feast of indulgence. 

Just imagine: the sea’s fresh breeze, the sun setting over the horizon, and you, relishing every bite of the decadently flavored lobster paella. What more could you ask for? 

Xiringuito Escribà is undoubtedly a slice of paradise for seafood lovers and beach bums alike.

17. Pez Vela

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Known for its chic, beachside vibe and a delectable vegetable paella, Pez Vela is a vegetarian’s dream in a sea of seafood.

Welcome to Pez Vela, where the Barceloneta beach’s vibes seep into every corner of the dining experience. 

While most paella places in the city focus on seafood, Pez Vela stands out with a delightful vegetable paella. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it’s a testament to the vibrancy of locally sourced produce. 

And with its trendy, beach-chic decor, Pez Vela ensures that you enjoy your paella with a side of cool. It’s the perfect spot for health-conscious foodies and style-seekers.

18. Los Pergaminos

📍 LOCATION: El Raval

SPECIALTY: Los Pergaminos is a charmer for its cozy, rustic interior and a hearty, meaty Paella Montañesa, a carnivore’s delight in the heart of Barcelona.

Are you a meat lover hunting for a paella that satiates your carnivorous cravings? Look no further than Los Pergaminos! 

Tucked away in El Raval, this restaurant is famed for its Paella Montañesa, a hearty concoction loaded with succulent pieces of meat. 

The rustic interior, with its warm colors and traditional decorations, adds to the overall homely and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal on a cool Barcelona night.

19. Abrassame

📍 LOCATION: Sants-Montjuïc

SPECIALTY: Boasting a stunning terrace overlooking Barcelona and an exceptional Arroz Negro, Abrassame promises an elevated dining experience for those seeking a touch of extravagance.

If you’re all about dining with a view, then Abrassame will simply take your breath away. Situated in Sants-Montjuïc, the restaurant offers a stunning terrace view overlooking Barcelona’s beautiful cityscape. 

What stands out here is their Arroz Negro, a savory squid ink paella that is as delicious as it is unique. 

And whether it’s the spectacular view, the intriguing flavors of their Arroz Negro, or the classy ambiance, Abrassame promises an elevated dining experience that’s worth every penny.

20. La Fonda

📍 LOCATION: Ciutat Vella

SPECIALTY: La Fonda, a charming eatery in the historic center, is loved for its budget-friendly, yet incredibly flavorful paella, making it a must-visit spot for the budget-conscious foodie.

Their paella, a classic blend of seafood, chicken, and aromatic rice, is as flavorful as any you’d find in Barcelona’s more upscale establishments. 

With its quaint decor and friendly service, La Fonda ensures you enjoy a fabulous paella experience without burning a hole in your pocket.

21. Filigrana

📍 LOCATION: Eixample

SPECIALTY: Filigrana is a star for its unique spin on traditional paella, offering seasonal variations that will delight adventurous food lovers.

Filigrana, situated in the chic Eixample district, isn’t your average paella place. It takes the beloved classic and gives it a unique spin, offering seasonal variations that will keep you coming back for more. 

Whether it’s the summer truffle paella or the winter black pudding paella, every visit to Filigrana promises a new and exciting gastronomic adventure. With its modern decor and inventive menu, Filigrana is the go-to spot for those seeking a paella experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary.

22. Can Majó

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Known for its classic, seafood-laden paella and stunning sea views, Can Majó is a seaside delight for traditional food enthusiasts.

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Can Majó, located right by the sea in Barceloneta, is a classic spot for some of the best seafood paella you’ll find in Barcelona. 

Each bite bursts with the flavor of fresh, succulent seafood, all perfectly cooked in a savory rice base. Add to this the stunning sea views, and you’ve got the perfect setting for a delightful seaside lunch or a romantic dinner. 

Can Majó is a place where traditional flavors meet scenic beauty, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience.

23. Restaurant Arume

📍 LOCATION: El Raval

SPECIALTY: Restaurant Arume, with its trendy vibe and innovative Galician-inspired paella, is a must-visit spot for foodies who like to explore regional Spanish cuisines.

Fancy a taste of Galicia in the heart of Barcelona? Head to Restaurant Arume in El Raval! 

This trendy spot serves up a Galician-inspired paella that is as unique as it is flavorful. Think smoky octopus, juicy scallops, and aromatic spices – a divine symphony of flavors. 

The modern, vibrant ambiance is the perfect backdrop for a food journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Barcelona to the lush landscapes of Galicia. If you’re a foodie who loves exploring regional Spanish cuisines, Restaurant Arume is a must-visit.

24. Camping Mar

📍 LOCATION: Sant Martí

SPECIALTY: With its relaxed, beachside setting and a delectable mix paella, Camping Mar offers a laid-back dining experience for beach lovers and foodies alike.

For those seeking a relaxed, beachside dining experience, Camping Mar in Sant Martí is your spot. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe perfectly complements its tasty mixed paella, a delightful combination of meat and seafood. 

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a mouthful of savory paella as you listen to the lullaby of crashing waves and bask in the warm Spanish sun. Camping Mar is your ticket to a mini beach holiday right in the heart of Barcelona.

25. Elche

📍 LOCATION: Sants-Montjuïc

SPECIALTY: Established over half a century ago, Elche is a legend in its own right, serving traditional Valencian paella that’s a hit with history and food buffs alike.

Let’s end our Barcelona paella journey with a bang at Elche. This legendary establishment, located in Sants-Montjuïc, has been serving traditional Valencian paella for over half a century. 

The recipe, a well-guarded secret passed down through generations, promises a unique taste of Valencia right in Barcelona. Every spoonful of their paella is a delightful burst of authentic flavors, evoking a sense of nostalgia and history. 

The warm, inviting ambiance, coupled with the rich culinary tradition, makes Elche an essential stop for any paella lover visiting Barcelona.

26. La Barraca

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Renowned for its seaside location and a mouthwatering Fideuà, La Barraca offers a delightful twist to traditional paella for those seeking something different.

La Barraca, located in the charming Barceloneta district, offers a delightful twist to your traditional paella experience with their incredible Fideuà. 

This “noodle paella”, loaded with succulent seafood, promises a unique culinary adventure that’s as delightful as the restaurant’s seaside location. 

Coupled with the friendly service and the relaxed atmosphere, La Barraca ensures an extraordinary dining experience where tradition meets innovation.

27. Al Grano

📍 LOCATION: Sant Antoni

SPECIALTY: Al Grano, with its eco-friendly approach and delicious vegan paella, is a must-visit for eco-conscious food lovers.

Vegetarians and eco-conscious food lovers, I’ve got you covered. Al Grano in Sant Antoni offers a scrumptious vegan paella that is as green as it is delicious. 

Committed to sustainable practices, this restaurant serves a guilt-free, eco-friendly paella experience that’s a delight for your taste buds. 

With its modern, bright decor and a heartening philosophy, Al Grano invites you to enjoy a delectable paella while being kind to our planet.

28. La Mar Salada

📍 LOCATION: Barceloneta

SPECIALTY: Famous for its fresh, ocean-to-table seafood paella, La Mar Salada is a top pick for seafood aficionados.

La Mar Salada, situated in Barceloneta, lives up to its name (the salty sea) by offering some of the freshest seafood paella in Barcelona. Every bite of their paella feels like a dive into the ocean, rich in flavor and freshness. 

With its inviting decor and the aroma of the sea wafting through, La Mar Salada offers a truly immersive dining experience that will leave seafood lovers wanting more.

29. Maná 75

📍 LOCATION: Sant Martí

SPECIALTY: With a modern, airy ambiance and a broad selection of rice dishes, Maná 75 is a paradise for those who love to experiment with flavors.

Step into Maná 75 in Sant Martí, and you’ll be spoiled for choice. Known for its wide array of rice dishes, this place is a paradise for those who love to experiment with flavors. 

From traditional paella to innovative rice dishes, each option is a journey of culinary discovery. The modern, airy ambiance adds to the overall delightful dining experience, making Maná 75 a go-to spot for adventurous food lovers.

30. El Racó del Mariner

📍 LOCATION: La Marina de Port

SPECIALTY: A hidden gem in the port area, El Racó del Mariner offers an authentic, rustic seafood paella experience for those seeking off-the-beaten-path locales.

If you’re up for a culinary adventure, El Racó del Mariner, tucked away in La Marina de Port, is an absolute must-visit. This place is known for its authentic, rustic seafood paella and promises a dining experience that’s as memorable as the journey to get there. 

With its humble, no-frills ambiance, El Racó del Mariner offers a genuine taste of Barcelona, away from the touristy crowds.

FAQs

What’s the best paella near the Sagrada Familia?

Searching for some delectable paella after marveling at Gaudí’s masterpiece, Sagrada Familia? You’re in luck! Some of the best paella spots in Barcelona are just a stone’s throw away from this architectural wonder. Here are a few of my top recommendations:

• Filigrana (Eixample)
• Restaurant Arume (El Raval)
• Xiringuito Escribà (Sant Martí)
• Camping Mar (Sant Martí)

Each of these eateries not only serve some of the best paella in the city, but also offer their unique flair to this traditional dish.

What’s the best paella near La Rambla?

La Rambla isn’t just a bustling promenade – it’s also a gateway to some of the best paella places in Barcelona! 

However, there are tons of tourist traps around here where you’ll be lucky to find anyone that speaks Spanish. That’s why it can really help to know where to go for the best paella near La Rambla so you don’t get sucked into somewhere where the food is average at best.

So whether you’re wandering around El Raval or exploring the Gothic Quarter, these spots will satiate your paella cravings:

• Los Pergaminos (El Raval)
• Restaurant Arume (El Raval)
• La Fonda (Ciutat Vella)
• Can Majó (Barceloneta)

From vegan options at Arume to budget-friendly plates at La Fonda, you’re sure to find a paella that hits the spot!

What’s the best paella in Eixample?

Ah, Eixample! A district as famous for its grid-like layout and modernist buildings as it is for its culinary delights. If you’re hunting for paella in Eixample, you can’t go wrong with Filigrana With its seasonal paella variations, Filigrana ensures a new culinary adventure with every visit.

Do they serve paella in Barcelona?

Absolutely, yes! Barcelona serves up some of the best paellas you’ll find anywhere in Spain. Although paella originates from Valencia, Barcelona has embraced this dish wholeheartedly, adding its unique Catalan spin to it. 

From seafood-laden delights by the sea to innovative vegan versions in the city center, Barcelona’s paella scene is varied, vibrant, and utterly delicious!

One local tip to keep in mind: Spaniards only eat paella for lunch, not dinner. You should definitely try to do the same to make sure you’re eating somewhere that the locals also love to go to!

How much should paella cost in Barcelona?

The cost of paella in Barcelona can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and the ingredients used in the dish. You can expect to pay anywhere from 15 to 30 euros per person for a hearty, flavorful paella in most restaurants. Remember, though, that paella is often sold by the portion, usually a minimum for two people. 

For a more upscale dining experience in some of the city’s more luxurious establishments, the price can go up to 40-50 euros per person. But trust me, every Euro spent on a delicious, steaming pan of paella in Barcelona is worth it!