We are planning a couple of mid-day meals at one- and two-star restaurants in Barcelona. Can we get away with sandals, for both genders, or are they considered tacky? Obviously not wanting to over pack. Thanks!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23547 posts
You will be fine.
Posted by
Portsmouth
5477 posts
Yes but not socks AND sandals, that's an absolute no no everywhere!
Posted by
Barcelona (Catalonia)
3043 posts
Barcelona is an easy going city -which doesn't mean anything goes though!- and except for a few venues and places, most everything is simply "smart casual" in the evening and "casual" any other time.
You won't be frown upon if you wear sandals to a two-star Michelin.
PS: Yet sandals, and especially sandals+socks are considered rather tacky in such venues :)
Posted by
USA
381 posts
Can I ask about this idea of a "dress code"?
Is it just a matter of not wanting to stick out, or is it a matter of not being allowed into a restaurant?
I remember the days when a restaurant wouldn't allow in a couple if the man wasn't wearing a sport jacket and tie, but that was several decades ago. Do any restaurants still have formal dress codes?
My way of thinking is that we Americans are going to stick out no matter what we do, so it's kind of useless to try to blend in. But if you think differently, please explain! Thanks.
Posted by
Barcelona (Catalonia)
3043 posts
1.) You "Americans", I don't know what you mean.... same than us here -I mentioned residents in the city are from many different nationalities and cultures, didn't I?-, you come in all shapes, colours and attitudes as well, so "we Americans" I am afraid is not a good description (no pun intended) :)
2.) There's no dress code in restaurants -except for certain venues. However, in certain top restaurants, in the evening, you might not get in in shorts and sandals -or to be precise, you might be told that all tables are reserved or similar. As I said, your best bet is to dress smart casual in the evening so you won't have any problem anywhere.