Review: Bar del Pla, Barcelona, Spain

Images of culinary tourism often display dimly lit dining rooms, elaborate multicourse meals and a hefty bill you have worked all year to pay for. But it doesn’t have to be this way, especially in Barcelona. The capital of Catalonia is known for its tapas (or small plates), the simpler, the better. Forget dress codes and dining etiquette when noshing in tiny tapas bars throughout the Old City, including one gem of a find in El Born: Bar del Pla.

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Tucked away on one of the neighborhood’s narrow, cobblestone thoroughfares is this tiny eatery you almost have to duck into. Smiles from the friendly staff and the casual atmosphere evoke an instant sensation of welcome. The sense of community is evident from the close proximity of the dining tables to the bar that extends to the street, where two bar stools welcome alley imbibers.

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The no-frills Catalan restaurant serves the tapas classics and then some, like beef tartare with foie gras, wasabi mushrooms, squid ink croquettes and octopus bombs, with prices ranging from $2 per croquette to $12 for tuna tartare. They even make their own cava (Spanish sparkling wine) in house. Four staff sommeliers will help you choose the best grape variety for your meal, from your first glass to your dessert wine or brandy. ¡Bon profit!

Bar del Pla

2 Carrer de Montcada

Barcelona, Spain 08003

34 932 68 30 03