Barcelona and fun are almost synonymous! All needs can be satisfied in this vibrant city, if you know where to look. If you are seeking not only savoury dishes, but also healthy ones, here is a list of places where you can find them! I've also included a famous tapas spot, a place that doesn't really fit into the 'healthy' category, but offers the most authentic Catalan lunch..... Find it in the article!
Honest Greens is a chain of modern, health-conscious restaurants in various parts of Barcelona that offer generous portions and excellent value for money. The concept of organic, eco-friendly cuisine with minimal environmental impact appeals to both curious tourists and discerning locals. As a result, Honest Greens is often busy and you may find yourself queuing for up to 15 minutes to place your order. However, time flies in this engaging environment. The designers have cleverly designed the queue area to showcase the various ingredients that may grace your plate as you progress, allowing you to make informed choices visually. When you reach the cashier, simply place your order.
To streamline the process, they offer a step-by-step menu: choose your protein, base and sauce. Alternatively, you can choose a single component, such as just meat or a salad base. Pictured here is the highly recommended veal marinated in herbs and soy, accompanied by roasted kale with lentil caviar, quinoa and pumpkin.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/honestgreens/
This chain is also known for its variety and affordable prices. Its most charming location is in the patio of the Amatller house in the historic centre, right next to Antoni Gaudi's Batlló house. Despite the popularity of the area, it has a typically relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices. Here you will find a detox menu, the opportunity to create your own dish from the ingredients available, a wide selection of pastries, salads, sandwiches, fresh fruit, fruit and vegetable smoothies and delicious coffee.
What's more, the café has an Amatller confectionery shop, so you can do two things in one visit - enjoy a snack and buy some chocolate souvenirs!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/faborit/
Quimet & Quimet
This charming and time-honoured tapas bar exudes an atmospheric atmosphere, its walls lined with wine bottles reaching to the ceiling. It's the ideal place to enjoy some of Spain's finest seafood, meat and cheese montaditos. The friendly staff here are well versed in suggesting wines that will complement your choice of delicious snacks and enhance your dining experience.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/quimet.quimet
District: Poble-sec
Address: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25
Here's another recent establishment that offers a "choose with your eyes" dining concept, with simple and delicious dishes. The creators of this place have aimed to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can feel at home. Their culinary approach is playfully described as "treats from all the grandmothers in the world". We had the opportunity to review this place shortly after it opened. If you're interested, you can find interior and food photos, pricing details and insights into the restaurant's philosophy HERE.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/baldomerobcn/
District: Eixample
Address: Passatge de Mercader, 16
Barcelona's first vegetarian café, just a 2-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya, serves exquisite and intriguing dishes. This establishment has proudly entered its fourth decade of operation, a testament to its enduring popularity among locals. It's always busy at lunchtime, and if you haven't made a reservation in advance, you can expect to wait 15-20 minutes. The two-course lunch with dessert is reasonably priced at 13 euros, which is a bargain in Barcelona.
One of the special pleasures of this café is its interior. With brick walls and natural wood tables, it offers a soothing ambience that helps you forget you're just a stone's throw away from the bustling boulevard.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/teresacarles/
Text: Katya Keso
Photo: Katya Keso and Katya Avocado