Review on Barcelona Tapas Bar y Restaurante
Founded by Martin and David Dalmau in 1991, Barcelona began as a bargain basement on Bell Lane before moving to its current location. It now housed in a prestigious City office complex (note that the entrance is at ground level on Middlesex Street), and ranks as one of the capital's most popular tapas bars.
The interior has been done out in authentic style with Gaudi flourishes (including a three-dimensional mosaic lizard suspended over the mezzanine gallery), plus displays of traditional matador and flamenco costumes. It brings a taste of Los Ramblas to the Square Mile and is guaranteed to conjure up memories of all those 'Costa del' vacations.
The choice of tapas is extensive, with lots of familiar names and a few more unusual regional influences coming through. Albondigas (100% beef meatballs) and gambas al ajillo (tiger prawns in garlic, chilli and white wine) rub shoulders with pollo adobado (marinated strips of chicken with paprika, cumin and other spices) and Galician-style octopus. Finish with chocolate truffle ice cream or a Spanish take on tiramisù laced with Gran Torres liqueur.
Barcelona's award-winning Spanish wine list is a corker, running to over 100 bins - most of which have been personally chosen by owner David Dalmau after visits to countless vineyards; there are some fine sherries, too and a good selection if you want to drink by the glass. There are branches at 13 Well Court (off Bow Lane) and 24 Lime Street (both within walking distance); a fourth outlet is in Dulwich, SE22.
Barcelona Tapas Bar y Restaurante is also featured in: Hardens
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Spanish/Tapas
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 11.00am through until
Dinner: 10.30pm Mon-Fri (6.30 - 10.30pm Sat)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card