The Luxe Guide to Barcelona

When I’m in Barcelona, one of my favorite things to do is wine and dine. From cozy tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers endless ways to savor flavors—and as a culinary graduate, I never stop discovering something new.

I always make time for La Boqueria Market, where the stalls burst with color, fresh seafood, jamón, and spices. It’s a sensory experience that reminds me of my culinary school days here.

For a slower pace, I love to hit the beach at Barceloneta. The energy is vibrant, and there’s nothing better than cava in hand, toes in the sand, and the Mediterranean breeze.

When I want to escape the city, I head to the Costa Brava. The rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and quiet coves make it one of the most romantic and breathtaking day trips.

I never tire of Gaudí’s masterpieces—from the magic of Park Güell to the grandeur of Sagrada Família and the whimsical curves of Casa Batlló, his work still leaves me in awe.

And at the end of the day, I love finding a rooftop bar for vermouth or cava as the sun sets. The city skyline glowing around me always feels like pure magic.

One of my absolute favorites will always be Hofmann Restaurant because it’s where I trained, graduated, and truly shaped my culinary journey. Dining there feels deeply personal to me. The Michelin-starred dishes are elegant, creative, and executed with the precision I learned firsthand. Just as special is the Hofmann Pastelería, where I still say I had the best croissant of my life—perfectly crisp on the outside, buttery and delicate on the inside.

For tapas, I adore Cal Pep, where the energy is lively and the plates are always fresh and flavorful—it’s the kind of place where you can let the chef choose and never be disappointed. Another favorite is Quimet & Quimet, a tiny standing-room-only spot with endless montaditos, conservas, and wine—a true Barcelona hidden gem.

When I want something truly indulgent, I love Lasarte, Barcelona’s three-Michelin-starred temple of fine dining, where every course feels like a sensory journey. For a more modern and playful take, Disfrutar is unforgettable—the creativity and technique there leave me inspired every time.

And of course, I can’t forget the simple pleasures: a vermouth at El Xampanyet, paired with anchovies and conversation, or cava at a tucked-away wine bar after exploring the Gothic Quarter. These are the moments that remind me why Barcelona will always be one of my favorite places to eat and drink.