Off-Guide Archives - White Rabbit: The Off-Museum of Barcelona

Catalan cuisine doesn't mess around, Bunny. It's slow-cooked and features dishes that have been giving their all for centuries in clay pots and on family tables. But what if I told you that those timeless flavors are now served foamy, with smoke, or in a spoonful that looks like it's from another planet?

Welcome to the more daring side of Catalan gastronomy. We're not talking about typical restaurants with white tablecloths and serious waiters. We're talking about places where tradition is stirred, blended, and served with a twist. Because respecting the past doesn't mean living in it, right?

So if you're one of those who dares to try something new without forgetting the flavor of yaya, take note: these restaurants work their magic with Catalan recipes...

1. Two Pebrots: Catalan history on every plate

If you want to understand the evolution of Catalan cuisine, Dos Pebrots is a must-visit. It's the personal project of chef Albert Raurich (yes, the same one who once worked at the legendary elBulli), and each dish tells a story that begins in Roman cuisine, moves through medieval times, and ends on your plate with incredible style.

Some examples? The black sausage, which comes with a cloud-like potato soufflé, the tripe dressed up with cod skin, or a deconstructed Catalan cream that surprises with every spoonful.

This place is not just about cooking, it's about edible culture.

📍 Carrer del Doctor Dou, 19 – El Raval

2. Besta: sea and mountains (with passport)

Does the classic “mar i muntanya” sound familiar to you? Well, in Beast He's been sent on Erasmus. Here, Catalan cuisine merges with Galician, and together they create a feast of flavors without rules.

One of their greatest hits: suquet de peix with Galician seaweed broth, intense, salty, profound like the Mediterranean after a bad day. And the creamy rice with citrus notes... it makes you think life is more delicious.

And the place: modern, relaxed, with that “things happen here” vibe.

📍 Carrer d'Aribau, 106 – Eixample

3. Alkimia: haute cuisine that doesn't forget where it comes from

If there's one place where Catalan cuisine rises to another level, it's Alkimia.

Chef Jordi Vilà reinterprets traditional dishes with haute cuisine techniques, creating surprising versions of classics such as fricandó, coca de recapte, and escudella.

Each dish is a work of art, but without losing the essence of traditional Catalan cuisine. Here, tradition isn't broken, it's simply transformed.

📍 Ronda de Sant Antoni, 41 – Sant Antoni

4. Mont Bar: signature tapas with Catalan DNA

At Mont Bar, traditional cuisine becomes haute cuisine, but without losing the tapas format.

Here you can find everything from pan amb tomàquet with smoked eel to a roasted cannelloni with black truffle that redefines what you knew about this dish.

The raw materials are top-notch, the execution impeccable, and the flavor… better than your best memory of Grandma's kitchen.

📍 Carrer de la Diputació, 220 – Eixample

5. Slow and Low: slow-cooked (and very well thought-out) pleasure

Here, we don't rush. Here, we cook slowly, with care, and with a damn elegance that will leave you in awe. If you're one of those who believe that the best things in life take time (like that wine that only improves in silence), Slow and Low will be your temple.

Imagine a rib that melts just by looking at it, a rice that catches you like a conversation you don't want to end, or depths deeper than your thoughts at 3 a.m.

But beware, this feast didn't spring from nowhere. Barcelona, Mexico, London, and Jakarta all left their mark on the chefs' souls.

This place is a tribute to slow and tasty cooking, but with a modern twist that surprises you.

📍 C. del Comte Borrell, 119 – Eixample

Tradition and avant-garde: the spark that revolutionizes everything.

Catalan cuisine hasn't remained stuck in the past. Quite the opposite: it's snuck into laboratories, put on the coolest apron on the market, and started playing. But always with that secret ingredient that can't be copied: soul.

These restaurants don't just serve you food: they serve you a remixed version of our history, without losing its essence.

And speaking of reinterpreting tradition... There's a rumor out there about a rebel museum where Catalan legends, neighborhood festivals, and capgrossos are told without dust or glass cases. We won't tell you the name (spoiler: it's White Rabbit), but if you stop by after lunch, you're sure to leave with a smile and a new story to tell 😏

Tradition? It's alive. And it's waiting for you.
Bon profit, Bunny 🍷🧄🔥

Bunny, let's talk serious stuff. Well, serious stuff in a sweet way: with a spoon in hand and that crunchy caramel coating about to break.

If you come to Catalonia and don't try crème brûlée, have you really come? No… Don't tell me you were at the Sagrada Familia, because here what matters is what happens on your plate. And when it comes to desserts, crème brûlée isn't an option; it's THE option. That creamy texture, the touch of vanilla and citrus that leaves you feeling enchanted, and that glorious caramel crunch that breaks with the perfect crunch… Come on, don't tell me your mouth isn't watering.

And the best part? No, not just any crème brûlée will do. Here, I'm not going to recommend the typical industrial versions found everywhere, but rather those that make you think, "Is this real?" So get ready, because I'm going to take you to the best places where crème brûlée is served as it should be: with care, with history, and with an unforgettable, authentic flavor.

Get your spoon ready... and be careful, this is addictive 🍮

1. Can Culleretes: Tradition made dessert

Barcelona's oldest restaurant doesn't need Instagram filters or crazy reinventions. Founded in 1786, it has survived wars, dictatorships, absurd trends, and even the brunch invasion. How so? By serving authentic Catalan cuisine, without makeup, with that flavor that grabs your soul and won't let go. Here, they serve the traditional crema; creamy in the center, aromatic, with that cinnamon that winks at you and a crunchy sugar layer that sounds like... crack.

The recipe is the same as always, without any frills or unusual experiments. If you're looking for authenticity and a true Catalan experience, without posturing, this is your place.

Plus, the place itself is a gem: walls full of photos, wooden ceilings, and an atmosphere that mixes locals, clueless tourists with luck, and the occasional celebrity who doesn't need to hide.

So if you go, come hungry and with plenty of time. Because here we don't eat, we celebrate.

And when you finish your crème brûlée, look around, take a deep breath, and smile. You're in one of the most authentic places in all of Barcelona.
And that, Bunny, is not found in any tourist guide..

📍 Carrer d'en Quintana, 5 – Gothic Quarter

2. El Glop: that place where you eat like at home... but better

Glop is one of those places where you don't need to shout to be heard. Here you'll find live coals, tradition, and good flavor, served with a smile and without pretension. And, hey, it was founded in 1978, right in the middle of the Gràcia festivities. So, the place already started with partying, wine, and joy in its veins. It couldn't go wrong. Since then, it's been a meeting point for those seeking authentic Catalan cuisine.

From the outside, it winks at you with its barrels, its checkered tablecloths, and that smell of calçots, butifarra, and wine that wafts through the door. The secret? The Catalan cream... the Catalan cream here is served in its earthenware bowl, with that layer of caramel that shines like a pool of sunshine. The kind that makes you say, "One more, please."

Tip: Order a glass of Moscatel to go with the cream. Not for sophistication, but because they go together like rumba and clapping.

📍 Carrer de Sant Lluís, 24 – Gràcia

3. Ca l'Isidre: the elegant queen of dessert

If you're into elegant vibes with a modern grandma vibe, this place is going to win you over. Ca l'Isidre This isn't just any restaurant. Founded in 1970, it has been proving for over 50 years that Catalan tradition is not at odds with sophistication. In short, if Catalan cream were a lady, it would be wearing pearls and Chanel... but it would know how to make sofrito like a god.

The creator of this gem? Mr. Isidre Gironès, a master of Catalan market cuisine who was already cooking with love before it was a foodie label. And although he's no longer in charge, the house remains in the hands of his daughter, Nuria Gironès, who has managed to maintain the high standard without losing an ounce of soul.

And in case you were wondering, yes: big names like Woody Allen, Ferran Adrià, and the King and Queen of Spain have all sat at their tables. But don't worry, you can sit down without having to wear a crown.

You come here to eat, to toast and to say “ufff” with your mouth full.

📍 Carrer de les Flors, 12 – El Raval

And now that you've got the city's sweet map memorized and your taste buds are screaming for war, I'm throwing you one last treat... 👀

Round off this creamy route with a visit to the most rogue place in Catalan art.
Yes, I'm talking about the White Rabbit, that rebellious corner where Catalan tradition blends with contemporary art, groundbreaking design, and stories no one else dares to tell. Here, there are no boring shop windows or yawning posters. You come here to discover culture through surprises, with rhythm, with attitude.

Catalan cream and Catalan culture in one day? Great plan, Bunny.
Stop by, browse, have a laugh, and get an overdose of authenticity.

Bunny, let's get serious.

Well, seriously in Catalan: with a glass of vermouth in hand and a small cap next to it.

Did you know that vermouth is much more than a drink? It is almost a religion whom Barcelona.

It's about that glorious pause before eating, a weekend ritual that combines the best of two worlds: drink and snack.

The plan? Find a corner with character, order a nice cold vermouth and let time pass without hurrying.

And don't worry, I've got you covered: Today I'm going to take you to the best vermouth bars in the city.

Don't expect any touristy stuff, here we go for the real deal.

¿Prepared? Here we go. 🍷✨

But first, where does this wonder come from?

A small one cultural parenthesis, because if you're going to drink vermouth, you better do it with some knowledge.

It turns out that the vermouth It was born in Italy, back in the 18th century, as a wine flavoured with herbs and spices. The French took it to another level with their dry versions, but here in Spain, and especially in Catalonia, we turn it into an art. We mix our passion for things well done and that touch of good living.

In the last decade, it's been like that vintage garment which is now back in fashion… and more cool than ever.

Yeah, yeah, less history and more substance, right?

Well come on, here you go. the definitive route to drinking vermouth in Barcelona like a pro. 🎯

1. Quimet i Quimet: The Olympus of Vermouth and Tapas

Are you coming to Barcelona and not going to try the tapas? Quimet and Quimet? No, Bunny, that can't happen.

This place is a hidden gem in the neighborhood of Poble SecIt is one of those places that make you feel as if at any moment some Peaky Blinders could walk through the door, with that 1920s feel and a touch of danger and style, where food and vermouth become a true work of art.

Well, besides a vermouth that could convince even the most skeptical, they have a selection of tapas They are pure poetry. They are the typical little delights that transport you directly to the best of Catalan gastronomy.

Quimet and Quimet takes the prize for the total experience: you order a vermouth (and if you are brave, try the vermouth on tap) and you accompany it with a tapa as creative as it is delicious, such as the Salmon sandwich with honey and yogurt.

And don't leave without trying the house croquettes (basic, but they never disappoint).

He vermouth Here it is served very cold and with a touch of orange that makes you think:
"Why didn't I discover this before?"

2. La Bodegueta de Ca'l Pep: Catalan Tradition with Local Flavor

If you like places with that lifelong charm, The Ca'l Pep Winery it is your destiny.

This site has been one of the most popular for years. most popular vermouth bars of the city. There are no pretensions or posturing here, just good food and vermouth as it should be.

In this corner of Funny, Catalan tradition shines with dishes prepared with love and lots of flavor, like the Roman style squid or the meatballs with cuttlefish.

And the vermouth? You already know: here is sacred.

Accompany it with a good tapa and get ready to make room for this vermouth in your must-have list. 🍷✨

3. Senyor Vermut: A Good Surprise from Tarragona

Let's move on to something different. Mr. VermouthNot only do they serve you an amazing vermouth, but it is also homemade. How do you feel?

They produce it themselves in Tarragona, and bring it to you in Barcelona with all the love in the world. It is a limited edition vermouth, and each time they package it in a different bottle or design.

Yes, Bunny, It is not the industrial vermouth that they serve you everywhere, no. They really work hard here!

A drink so unique that it will surprise you and the place has a vintage touch that makes you feel like you are in a 50s bar, with that warm and cozy atmosphere.

Plus, their bravas are reputed to be some of the best in the city. Are we in agreement?

4. Superclassic: Homemade Vermouth

This place lives up to its name.

Superclassic It is everything a vermouth lover could wish for: an unpretentious establishment, homemade vermouth that will make you doubt all the ones you have tried before.

This is the place where vermouth isn't just a drink, but a way of life. It's tucked away in a corner of Raval, and the best part is its terrace. Yes, that little outdoor gem where you can sit and enjoy the sun while sipping a delicious vermouth accompanied by stuffed olives.

Superclassic will make you feel like you're one of the locals and that, Bunny, is something you're going to like 😉

5. Bar Casa Almirall: History in Every Sip

If the vermouth were a novel, Almirall House It would be one of its most intriguing chapters.

In addition to vermouth, the following is served here: famous absinthe, that drink of artists and bohemians who wanted to see life with a twist… different.

Since you arrive, the facade already tells you a story, and when you cross the door, the journey begins: an intimate space that seems taken from another era.

The first thing that catches the eye is the imposing marble counter, where a sculpture of the World's Fair of 1888.

This place isn't just for drinking, Bunny; It is a temple to feel like a damned poet from the late 19th century (although try not to end up lost between verses and absinthe!).

That's right, the vermouth remains the protagonist.

Order one, let yourself go, and get ready for travel in time without moving from your stool.

Bonus track: how to enjoy vermouth like a true Barcelona native

Before you dive into this list, here are a couple of tips. truths.

One: Vermouth is not drunk alone. He always goes with something to snack on, whether it's some olives, some bravas or some good anchovies.

Two: This is not about runningMaking vermouth is a slow, relaxed art, more about enjoy the moment than about the drink itself.

And three: run away from postcard places. Trust this list, it's all about the game here another league.

So now you know, Bunny: if you really want to feel Barcelona in your veins, park the Holy Family for a while and Go ahead and visit these vermouth bars.

Just because, Gaudí is art, but one A glass of vermouth well served on a Sunday It is what connects you with the authentic essence of this city.

See you at one of these bars?

Cheers and good luck 😉

Hey, Bunny, have you just landed in Barcelona looking forward to wander around, discover the unexpected and turn your back on the typical?

So, welcome to the wild side.

Forget about those Paella and sangria menus on Las Ramblas, because that is a red flag bigger than carrying socks with sandals.

What you need is a dose of authentic Barcelona, and what better than to start with the sandwiches?

Ah, the sandwiches.

Basically, they are the Spanish version of a sandwich, but with more attitude. Think about freshly baked bread embracing ingredients that could star in your own gourmet movie.

Here I bring you the top 5 bars where Every bite is worth more than renting an electric scooter to walk around the Barceloneta (and that's what the scooter has its thing, but you know what I mean).

Fasten your napkin, because we're going on a route. 🥖🔥

1. Bar Torpedo: Sandwiches with attitude

This place is pure rock and roll.

Torpedo Bar It is not just any bar; here the sandwiches are an explosion of personality.

Each one is a explosion of flavors, and the ingredients are chosen as if they were stars of a casting.

He bread, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it's just the beginning of an experience that will make everything you thought about sandwiches change stay in the past.

The undisputed star It's yours pastrami tongue sandwich: Marinated beef tongue, herb mustard and melted cheese.

But that's not the only thing that will keep you coming back.

They also serve here one of the best patty melts you will ever try, which will make you say “Wow” in more languages than you know.

And the place? Small, without posturing, but with a underground roll that will make you feel like You would have discovered a secret that not even the locals know.. 🎸🔥

2. Entrepanes Díaz: Elegance between two loaves

Diaz sandwiches It's like that person who looks flawless in every Instagram photo, but without being annoying.

Here you breathe style. You sit on a bar with mirrors, tiles and an air of traditional bars, but with a sophisticated touch.

It's like mixing the classic with a perfect vintage filter.

He roast beef sandwich it's a classic among classics. Juicy, with Homemade Tartar Sauce and a Bread that looks like it was made by the baking gods.

But don't just stick to that one; anything you order here will be like a small work of art.

This is the place where you bring someone if You want to impress without looking like you're trying too hard.. 😉✨

3. Bar del Pla: Sandwiches with a cheeky twist

For a more modern touch, Bar del Pla is your stop.

Located in the Born, this bar combines tradition with creativity.

Their sandwiches are made with top quality local ingredients, but with a unexpected turn that makes them unique.

He sausage sandwich with caramelized onion and aioli is the king here. It is simple, but with a explosion of flavor that will make you want another one instantly.

In addition, the atmosphere is cozy, perfect for a stop before continuing to explore the city.

4. Bar Sanz: A humble classic in Barcelona

If you want to soak up history and simplicity, Bar Sanz is the perfect place.

Founded in 1973 for the Sanz family, this bar is a real emblem of the city, and its Charm lies in the humble.

You will not meet with No flashy or pretentious decorations, but yes with a cozy atmosphere that has stood the test of time.

He most famous sandwich Here it is not the classic squid (although that is also a champion), but the “Computer scientist”.

This sandwich was born thanks to the telecommunications students, who were bored of the usual sandwiches and decided to create a masterpiece of pure energy: carry assorted sausages, crispy bacon, cooked ham and melted cheese, as if they were programming a code for the happiness.

It's a feast on bread, with more energy than a double coffee and much more tasty.

The best of all is the Family and close treatment that makes you feel at home.

It is the ideal place for disconnect and enjoy a sandwich with history, and what's even better, without losing the essence of the most authentic Barcelona.

5. Conesa: Sandwiches with history

Conesa is the cool grandfather of this list.

They opened their doors more than 60 years and they are still going strong.

Located in the heart of the Gothic, this is the kind of site that doesn't need any frills or hype, because the flavor speaks for itself.

Here everything revolves around the perfect toast and the fresh ingredients.

If there is a sandwich that encapsulates the essence of Barcelona, it is the one ham and tomato. And in Can Conesa, they do it like no one else.

In this bar the sandwiches are pure tradition, with a crispbread, sun ripened tomato and ham which could earn a standing ovation at any Catalan table.

Bonus track: What you should not do

Look, Bunny, I'm not going to judge you (too much), but here are a couple of Us so that your route is impeccable:

Don't settle for the touristy: There is more life outside the ground zero of tourism. Dare to explore neighborhoods like Funny either Poble-sec.
Don't forget the drinks: In these places, accompany your sandwich with a beer or a good one local vermouth… If not, you’re missing half the experience.

So there you have it, the definitive sandwich route in Barcelona that a tour guide will never teach you.

There are no maps or clichés here, just Food that tells stories and places with soul.

Now it's up to you, Bunny: jump off the beaten track and get fully into this gastronomic adventure.

Oh and when you're done, take a stroll around Passeig de Gràcia to get the food down and stop by the burrow to say hello! 🐰

Barcelona is not just about the beach, Gaudí, Segway tours and selfies with the Sagrada Familia (although I forgive you if you ever did).

The true magic of this city is in the details, in those places where Locals take refuge, where Catalan flies from table to table and where the palate meets a unexpected pleasure.

Today, BunnyI take you by the hand on a journey that goes straight to a culinary icon that everyone thinks they know, but few enjoy as they should: the potato omelette.

We are not talking about any tortilla, we are talking about the queen of queens of the tortillas, which will make you rethink your life.

So leave the quick sandwich for the guiris and let's go for the good stuff. Because if there is something that the Catalans know how to do, apart from the calçots and Homemade vermouth, is to give it a master turn to this dish so simple and so glorious.

Let's get started!

THE TRUITES – THE EIXAMPLE

The hidden paradise in Barcelona where the tortilla is not a dish, it is pure fantasy.

Here they are not satisfied with the typical potato, no, here they are going to full: omelette artichokes, of sausage and, yes, hold on, chocolateIt's like the "yaya" got together with a crazy chef and decided to break all the rules.

While other sites serve you boring daily specials, here the tortillas are pure fun and zero nonsense.

Ready for flip out with every bite?

FLASH FLASH – SANT GERVASI

Although her look screams «seventies» everywhere, the Flash Flash It is still so modern that it seems to have a time machine. Work of the architects Federico Correa and Alfonso Mila, is that secret corner that has been breaking the Barcelona foodie scene since the 70s, with a decoration Retro-chic that seems taken from a movie.

This place is a celebration of generations: grandparents, parents, children and up to grandchildren meet in this temple. Here everyone leaves with a smile. And yes, they have ALL: from the classic with onion to versions with sobrasada either spinach. Perfect for sharing, although you will want to eat it all and if you want to surprise yourself, try the Lay's: with anchovies, Italian dried tomato and red pestoI know it sounds bold, but trust.This is egg-shaped art.

BAR ALEGRIA – L'EIXAMPLE

If you want to try one tortilla that makes you cry with emotion, here it is truffled omelette It's a real trip to paradise. And no, I'm not exaggerating.

It's one of those that makes you look at the waiter and ask: "This is legal?”.

Also, accompanied by classics such as the Russian salad (the best in Barcelona, mind you) and a Toast with anchovies and smoked butter that will leave you wanting more.

Forget about tourist restaurants, in Happiness It is eaten like a local god. And this is told to you by a friend who knows 😉.

CAL PEP – THE BORN

The tortillas Here they are something from another planet: with an interior creamy, velvety and flux that will make you wonder if life is just a bad dream compared to that first bite.

Their potato omelettes They are a chapter apart: creamy, velvety, melting... (sorry, not suitable for fans of dryness). It's like biting into a piece of happiness.

Seriously, forget about the dry tortillas and chicladas, the ones they sell you vacuum-packed. If you really want to flip out, I promise you, this is the kind of plan that will make you feel like a local.

CAN ROS WINERY BAR – GRACE

After a day of wandering around the city and dodging frozen paellas, check out Can Ros. This bar-restaurant has the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Their Spanish omelette is simply perfect: made to order, with the exact right amount of curd and caramelized onions that would leave a Michelin chef asking for the recipe. And if you're still craving more, I'll give you a tip that I don't tell just anyone... their black rice is also on another level, you'll feel like you've discovered a local treasure. Shall we keep this secret between us, Bunny? 😉

Ready! Here is your guide to five places that will make you understand that a Spanish omelette is not just egg and potato (or egg, potato and onion?). It is an ode to simplicity, a caress to the palate and, above all, a perfect excuse to get lost in the streets of Barcelona like a local.

So, you know, leave aside the trap menus for tourists and explore the city with the hunger and curiosity you deserve. Barcelona will not let you down and remember: White Rabbit always knows where the places that are really worth it are. And if a delicious omelette makes you want to continue discovering the essence of Catalan culture, come down the rabbit hole, I promise you that here you will also find stories that feed, but this time curiosity... Bon profit!

Restaurants that reinterpret Catalan dishes in a modern way