Marmalade Restaurant, Barcelona

Finding a Barcelona restaurant that serves brunch, lunch and dinner (and does it well) can be a chore, as brunch isn’t as much of a pastime in Catalonia as it is in other parts of the world. However, Marmalade prides itself on being a little bit of everything, from a casual brunch spot to a chic evening cocktail lounge, all without making it too obvious.

Situated in Barcelona’s bohemian El Raval neighborhood, Marmalade offers a touch of opulence in an otherwise grungy area of the city surrounded by dive bars and kebab joints. Forming a horseshoe shape, the red carpet-worthy interior welcomes guests at a central bar before diverting into two directions. To the left is a billiards table and a row of more casual booths, tables and low stools for easy cocktail consumption or appetizer splitting. The right arm of the restaurant is lined with long banquet tables where groups can host special events or smaller clusters of diners can celebrate absolutely nothing on a random Tuesday night.

Marmalade’s menu is varied and eclectic, serving all tastes, from duck confit croquettes and a Moroccan chickpea salad, to juicy burgers and a bourbon pulled pork sandwich. A creative compilation of cocktails features the popular Michelada (a take on a Bloody Mary but with Corona beer instead of vodka) and a Champagne Charlie, with rum and fruity liquors, topped with cava.

Marmalade is part of a restaurant group that also owns two other successful Barcelona eateries: Milk Bar & Bistro and cozy corner spot Firebug, both also serve brunch in the early hours and cocktails through the night.