Local Dishes You Have to Try While in Barcelona!
Authored By:
One of the most exciting parts of traveling abroad is getting to try some of the local cuisine! I had so much fun exploring the food culture in Barcelona, and wanted to share some of my favorite traditional dishes that I got to try, and that you can’t miss out on when you visit!
Spanish tortilla
The Spanish omelette, or Spanish tortilla, is a traditional national dish from Spain. It is an omelette made with eggs, potatoes, and onion.
Tuna limes
This was a very unique dish that I tried in Madrid. It consists of slices of limes, with tuna, and aioli on top. You scrape the tuna off of the limes with your teeth to get some of the lime juice as part of the taste. I was skeptical at first, but it was incredible! I’ll include a picture in this blog!
Croquettes (Croquetas)
Croquettes can be made with any cooked meat or vegetable, cheese, and rice. They are breaded and fried on the outside.
Patatas bravas
Patatas bravas is a dish native to Spain. It typically consists of cubed potatoes that have been fried, and are served warm with an aioli and a spicy sauce.
Iberian Ham (Jamon iberico)
Iberian ham is a variety of jamón that comes specifically from acorn-fed pigs, and it is deliciously sweet.
Paella
Paella is a rice dish originally from Valencia, that includes rice cooked with meats, seafood, and vegetables
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a delicious, cold soup/drink made of blended vegetables.
Tomato bread (Pan con tomate)
This is kind of like the Spanish version of Bruschetta, but sometimes it comes unprepared, so that you have a choice in what ingredients are included. The bread is toasted first. Typically, you will rub half of a garlic clove, then, you’ll rub half of a tomato over the bread. Lastly, add olive oil and salt.
Bonus: Here is a list of some of the best restaurants I visited in Barcelona, as well!
- La Boqueria (marketplace, endless opportunities)
- Rosa Negra
- Cera 23
- Tapas 2254
- Casa Lolea
- El Nacional (3-4 restaurants inside)
- Eat my Trip
- Brunch and Cake
- Honest Greens
Related Posts
Why Learning Spanish in Spain Hits Different
This post highlights the power of immersive language learning in Spain, specifically in Mallorca. It explores how everyday experiences, like ordering food, exploring the city, or chatting with host families, transform Spanish from a school subject into a real-world tool, building confidence and connection in a way that traditional classrooms can’t replicate.
More Than Beaches: All the Ways to Experience Mallorca
This blog explores the many sides of Mallorca beyond its iconic beaches, from hiking the Tramuntana mountains and rock climbing to cultural festivals, local town adventures, and urban exploration in Palma. It highlights the island as a dynamic destination full of energy, history, and outdoor fun for every type of traveler.
Madrid vs. Barcelona Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?
You’ve decided to study abroad in Spain . Great! Step one is done. Step two: Madrid or Barcelona ? It’s a big decision. Wh ich city in Spain is best... keep reading