If a flight to the Philippines isn’t on the cards this summer, instead head to Hotel 1898’s beautiful terrace ‘La Isabela’, named after the stunning West Pacific island. Whilst we can’t guarantee golden sands and clear, turquoise waters (although their pool isn’t far off), rest assured that this luxury rooftop is an oasis of serenity for an enjoyable summer evening in Barcelona.
Enjoy Barcelona’s spectacular skyline, with panoramic views spanning from Mount Tibidabo to the picturesque Montjuïc, as you enjoy one of La Isabela’s renowned cocktails. From a classic espresso martini to a refreshing mojito, their extensive drinks menu includes all your favourite concoctions, in addition to their own in-house creations. We recommend La Isabela’s iconic raspberry pink punch – a fruity blend of lime, raspberry, vodka and champagne – to cool you down on a warm summer evening in Barcelona, as well as their coconut and chilli mojito – if you’re feeling spicy!
If in true Spanish style, you’ve had your main meal at lunchtime, La Isabela’s light tapas menu, carefully devised by Carles Boronat, is ideal. From staple Catalan dishes, like pan con tomate and jamón ibérico, to more contemporary tapas dishes, such as salmon ceviche with a honey and soy dressing, La Isabela ensures that their menu caters towards all palettes. Baronat’s unique fusion of both Mediterranean and international flavours creates a wide variety of superb dishes – all made from top-quality ingredients, sourced from the nearby La Boqueria market.
Alternatively, if you’re seeking a special and less casual dinner, head downstairs to ‘El Nido’ for an unforgettable meal in its plush, Colonial-style dining room. For a first class, gastronomic experience in the Catalan capital, El Nido will certainly impress thanks to their exceptional menu, and top-rated service. Suffice to say that customer service in this city can be somewhat hit and miss, however at El Nido the waiters’ attention to detail and charm are unparalleled.
What’s more, despite boasting a menu of traditional Catalan fare, their menu goes beyond this with dishes originating from the Middle East. Whilst we recommend sampling El Nido’s variety of authentic tapas dishes for a taste of local cuisine, their more unusual recipes such as their ras el hanout roasted lamb are simply out of this world. As a result, El Nido certainly trumps its neighbours on La Rambla with its diverse and memorable offerings for a summer evening in Barcelona.