Top 3 paella restaurants in Barcelona

I have had paella a few times before but never felt like I had tried the real deal, therefore I never made up my mind about whether I like it or not. On the last day of my trip to Barcelona I was on a hunt for good authentic paella! Rinsing any credit left that I had on my phone, I found Restaurant Barceloneta and I can officially say that I like paella.

The restaurant is located right by the port and the interior is so cute, I love anything with a sailor theme. It was slightly hidden though but they do have a sign to guide you to the restaurant.

Bookings are recommended as it looked very busy but luckily we came during a weekday so we managed to get a table for 2. During the summer season, it has a large outdoor terrace for more than 290 people.

As an appetizer on the house, they brought tomato bread and kept topping it up. This bread has become my new favorite thing.

As we knew what we had come for, we both ordered Paella Moll del Rellotge (Fish and sea food) 21,95€ and they prepare the paella in front of you.

When the paella first arrived, the rice seemed undercooked but it’s meant to have a crust we hear. Nonetheless, the waiter without hesitation took it back for further cooking and the dish came back shortly with the rice cooked how we preferred it.

The seafood in the paella wasn’t overwhelming. I sometimes find that the shells in paellas are too distracting, stopping me from enjoying my meal but this wasn’t the case. The paella hit the spot.

Whilst being in the traditional cuisine mood, I tried the Creme Catalan and it was very nice. It was like a soft and subtle version of Creme Brule which I preferred.

The Tiramisu was also good, very juicy.

The price in total amounted to around €30 per head. This included paella, dessert and a soft drink each. I think this was reasonable considering that you get authentic, good quality food in a nice setting. Check out http://www.restaurantbarceloneta.com

With more research afterwards I found two more restaurants that are high up there in the competition for the best Paella.

7 Portes

In 7 Portes they serve paella Parellada, which is without shells nor bones. Their menu is filled with Catalan dishes and paella is one of the specialties.

Passeig Isabel II, 14, 08003 Barcelona
http://www.7portes.com/angles/

Can Majó

Can Majó is also located in the district of Barceloneta – another classic restaurant in the area which has been open for over 40 years. The restaurant receives high quality fresh fish and seafood on a daily basis. They have an outdoor area as well for those who prefer Al Fresco dining.

Almirante Aixada, 23, 08003 La Barceloneta, Barcelona
http://www.canmajo.es

Enjoy!