Barcelona is a place that is known for having a history dating back over 2,000 years.
In recent times, the city has become world renowned for offering fantastic food and drinks in its restaurants and bars.
Nothing seems better than having a taste of the city´s history and culinary wonder in one sitting.
Therefore, we bring to you the most historic bars and restaurants in Barcelona!
Els 4Gats
This wonderful restaurant opened its doors in 1897. The founder, Pere Romeu, wanted to imitate the Parisian style eatery that he had worked at in the French capital. Two years later, a 17-year-old Picasso began to make regular visits to the restaurant and even carried out his first exhibition here.
Els 4Gats soon became one of the main centres of Modernism in Barcelona and a place for famous artists to display their artwork. Unfortunately, in 1991 it was put into administration and subsequently closed. Luckily, it has risen from the ashes to the sophisticated tapas restaurant, bar and brewery we see today.
They offer a breakfast menu and a wonderful lunch and dinner menu; the most eye-catching dish would be their famous sautéed octopus. The bar here itself is worth the visit, making the Els 4Gats the ideal stop off point for food or a couple drinks in one of the most historic restaurants in Barcelona.
Address: Carrer de Montsió, 3
Can Culleretes
Originally, founded back in 1786, Can Culleretes is easily one of oldest bar/restaurants in Barcelona. It has a wonderful interior that make you feel as if you are truly in the 18th Century! Its name came from the fact that the waiters used up so many spoons that they were heard shouting “Noies, Culleretes!”, or, “Girls, get the spoons!” This name has stood the test of time and you can still enjoy the hustle and bustle of this busy spot.
One of the most fascinating things that you can experience here is that you can truly dine with the stars! The walls are adorned with photos, drawings and other imagery that have been signed by some of its most famous visitors. In knowing this, you can feel a deeper attachment to the restaurant and imagine some of the amazing conversations that took place here.
Address: Carrer d’en Quintana, 5.
Bar Marsella
Bar Marsella is arguably the most famous oldest bar in the city, known also for hosting likes of Gaudí, Picasso, Dalí, and Hemingway. Luckily, for us, the vibe of this bar has not changed over since when it opened back 200 years, in 1820!
Bar Marsella has an incredibly unique design that still stands. With wooden walls, dusty chandeliers and the same mirrors from almost two centuries ago. You should try out their most famous drink, absinthe. If you dare!
Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 65.
London Bar
Opened in 1910, the London Bar is found by La Rambla. It was known to be a favourite of Ernest Hemingway, whilst serving in the Spanish Civil War as part of the International Brigades. These were a group of people made up from all over the world, who came together to help the Spanish Republicans. As for locals, how do the usual suspects of Picasso and Dalí sound? The eventful history of this bar is one of its main attractions, as well as having plenty of live music on offer!
Address: Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 34
Casa Almirall
Back in 1860, Casa Almirall opened its doors. With moon-shaped lamps, marble décor, and an amazing Gaudi-style wooden doorway, Casa Almirall is a true showing to Barcelona’s modernist movement. A place that is as busy as it was some 160 years ago, you need to try out the tradition that made it the popular spot you see today, serving its´ vermouth with a skewered olive.
Address: Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 33.
La Confiteria
In 1912, a confectioner’s shop opened for business, La Confiteria still holds many memories of this time, with scales for measuring loose sweets and other equipment used for the store. A neat setting indeed, that has its ambience enhanced by the jazz music while you enjoy your drink: such as a craft cocktail.
This intimate bar will give you a welcome feel and a great atmosphere to enjoy, as you sample another one of the oldest bars in Barcelona. There is even an outdoor area if the summer sun is too tempting!
Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 128.
Boadas Cocktail Bar Barcelona
Dim lighting, bar stools, long bars and smartly dressed staff, this is a cocktail lover’s haven; this family run bar is allegedly the first cocktail bar in Barcelona. With its first mix made in 1933! Transport yourself back in time to the 30s with Miguel Boadas’ family portraits, old newspapers, letters and other memorabilia, which are hung from the walls adding to the historical authenticity of the bar.
Given its location, on La Rambla, it is extremely popular amongst tourists and still held to a high regard by locals. It does not have its own drinks list, so we suggest getting stuck in and having in mind what cocktail you would like, or what mixers you want to experiment with!
Address: Carrer dels Tallers, 1