Barcelona’s Gothic, Born and Barceloneta neighbourhood are renowned for their diverse selection of Spanish eateries, and are a top pick amongst tourists in search of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Yet, only a stone’s throw away lies the modernist Eixample neighbourhood; home to many of the city’s unrivalled local haunts, including the chic Café San Telmo.
Priding themselves on being “more than just a bar”, Café San Telmo far exceeds your run-of-the-mill breakfast, lunch and dinner spot. Rather, the interior is resemblant of a swanky New York saloon, with its high top bar and elegant decor, yet without the extravagant Manhattan prices. Its cosmopolitan vibe exudes sophistication and style, attracting a varied clientele instead of excluding the more casual diners amongst the crowd.
The restaurant boasts a faithful following of customers, who return time and time again, thanks to its fusion of old and new. Indeed, Café San Telmo is a a model for traditional cuisine with modern flair, to satisfy all palettes and generations. The restaurant offers a selection of classical tapas dishes, ideal for sharing as a starter or main, from the region’s beloved patatas bravas to croquettes, but with that all important twist. However, if a few days in the Catalan capital has left you desiring something beyond the Catalan staples, Café San Telmo’s more innovative combinations will most certainly satiate your taste buds. Their salmon tataki, lightly drizzled with truffle honey and olive pâté is superb, much like their baked tomino cheese, accompanied by aubergine chutney and miso.
Alternatively, if the tapas notion of sharing a variety of dishes does not appeal, Café San Telmo also serves a wealth of individual meat and fish dishes, salads, burgers and sandwiches. What’s more, the flawless presentation of their food provides an additional treat for the eyes (and your Instagram followers). Similarly, their range of homemade desserts will certainly catch the eye of any sweet-toothed diners, whether you prefer a zesty lemon pie or a a melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake.
That said, Café San Telmo is equally renowned for its extensive gin menu, with over a 100 different types of the spirit. From Monkey 47 to Bombay Sapphire, their expansive selection will undoubtedly please gin novices and connoisseurs alike. Whether you prefer a light and refreshing gin and tonic or one of their tempting cocktail concoctions, their vibrant atmosphere makes for the perfect place to enjoy an evening drink with your loved one.
