Chin Chin! The worst of week 1 in isolation is almost over and we are practically salivating at the thought of the first celebratory drink in one of our beloved Barcelona bars once the crisis is over.
This week’s travel guide takes a look at the best bars in Barcelona, in particular around the neighbourhood of Raval. Previously the red light district of the city, this area gets a bad rep amongst some of the locals who only remember it for its hub of seedy and illegal happenings back in the 20s (yes, that was a century ago) and less so for its recent cultural re-birth.
Part of the Ciutat Vella (Old City) and home to Barcelona’s oldest church, the museum of Modern Art and an endless array of boutique shops, bars and restaurants, the district of Raval is a fantastic place to visit for a dose of great culture, food and shopping. Often overshadowed by the more touristy areas like Born and Gotico, Raval boasts the same picturesque facade as its neighbours but with much fewer crowds.
Read our guide to ‘baring’ like a local in Raval to find out more.
Bar muy Buenas
Carrer del Carme, 63, 08001 Barcelona
One of the few bars where you feel obliged to sample one of their more expensive cocktail mixes as opposed to the local Vermouth. Restaurant in the back, speak-easy style bar in the front, this local spot offers an extensive array of spirits and concoctions to tingle your taste buds. In contrast to its menu, this is a lowkey spot with casual bar seating perfect for midweek date night or friendly catch-up.
El Jardi
Carrer de l’Hospital, 56, 08001 Barcelona
Set outside in the picturesque square of an old hospital, this outdoor gem is perfect for a large glass of Aperol underneath the Spanish sun. With more than just drinks on the menu, you can order one of their seasonal sharing dishes or salads to enjoy as you people watch from afar.
33/45 Bar & Gallery
Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 4, 08001 Barcelona
This modern bar and exhibition space is a favourite spot for the city’s many creatives and freelancers who come here to enjoy live music, DJ sets and a buzzing atmosphere throughout the weekend. With its Berlin-esque interiors, this is one of Raval’s busiests spots.
Kalso Bar
Carrer de Guàrdia, 10, 08001 Barcelona
A hidden treasure. Located above a small gallery and print design store, this tiny bar looks like it could be a part of the exhibition with its neon lighting. Run by friendly staff who know their drinks, this is a great spot for a chilled hangout.
Bar Lobo
Carrer del Pintor Fortuny, 3, 08001 Barcelona
This local spot looks like it has been pulled straight out of Shoreditch and placed into the winding back streets of Barcelona. Just steps away from the Rambla, this bar boasts contemporary interiors and an incredible outdoor terrace to enjoy local wine paired with traditional tapas dishes.
Barcentral
Carrer d’Elisabets, 6, 08001 Barcelona
Bookshop, garden, cafe and bar, this versatile spot is tucked away in another of Barcelona’s historic buildings. With two separate terrace areas, this is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of rose outside in a small oasis away from the bustling city streets.
Tropico
Carrer de la Paloma, 19, 08001 Barcelona
Raval is full of interesting and quirky bars to visit and Tropico is not one to be missed. A mix of eclectic furniture, hanging lights and plants, the atmosphere at this bar is as vibrant as its interiors. From Thursday onwards the place is packed with diverse crowds enjoying local beer and vermouth.
Two Schmucks
Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 52, 08001 Barcelona
In the words of its owners; ‘this bar serves serious cocktails but in a relaxed & fun-filled manner’. Situated around the corner from Barcelona’s Contemporary Museum of Art, this unusual spot is arguably one of the most welcoming bars in the area. If open arms and an extensive cocktail menu aren’t enough to entice you in, admire their cheeky signage from outside.
Instagram – @eloiseemartinn