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Eating in Barcelona

I am a vegetarian (no meat including fish) with a severe dairy allergy. I am traveling with someone who loves meat, but enjoys vegetables too. We will be spending several days in Barcelona. I like to try the food of the region when possible. My research into the cuisine makes me think that may be difficult. Can anyone recommend a restaurant or restaurants that we will both be happy with. Thank you for the help.

Posted by
1178 posts

Check out the menu on this restaurant El Raco de la Villa....a bit off the regular tourist path, but one of the best in the city. I was given the name by a friend and highly recommend it. I think there are vegetarian dishes on the men, but do not recall any specific item. It is accessible by the metro (Subway) system. and the food and service are both excellent!!!

Also, the market, La Boqueria just off Las Ramblas, about one half way down has many walk up eating counters and lots and lots of fresh vegetables as well. Sure you will find something there.

Posted by
2393 posts

Gina - google vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona - you will find plenty

Also check here and here

There are veg tortillas (do you eat eggs), gorgeous salads and I know I've seen Veg Paella on more than one menu. Olives, artichokes, asparagus, roasted veg, potatoes, hummus - are readily available.

You should not have any problem finding local flavor to suit your needs.

Posted by
16895 posts

Rick's guidebook suggests two vegetarian places in Barcelona, called Biocenter and Juicy Jones (2 locations). During mushroom season, I got a lovely plate of sautéed setas at a counter in the Boqueria Market (that also served non-veg items).

Posted by
3 posts

No, I don't eat eggs. I don't agree with the way the farming industry treats the` chickens. Thanks for all the ideas.

Posted by
233 posts

And there's always Fresc Co (http://www.frescco.com/), my go-to salad bar buffet chain restaurant in Spain :) I don't drink (so no bars for me) and am not an adventurous eater, so when I tire of McDonalds in Spain (and its yummy "patatas deluxe" [potato wedges, served with a sauce similar to French onion dip!]) and picnics, I go to Fresc Co. I've eaten there in Madrid, Barcelona, and Granada.

Posted by
3052 posts

one consideration: the word 'bar' is used differently over here, and in most of Europe for that matter. A bar is not just a place to drink (alcohol) like it'd be in the US, a bar is a place serving drinks (alcohol or not) and often light meals too. Anyone can enter a bar, even minors -although alcohol won't be served or sold to under 18s.

And Kyla, it's so sad that you come to one of the meccas of foodies and you eat at MCs... I know you said you weren't adventurous, but next time, do try something different girl, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Have a look at some of the many different options: www.timeout.com/barcelona/restaurants Going out to restaurants over here is cheaper than in most US cities so we do it 'fairly' often, so as demand is high, the offer is multiple and varied.

Posted by
64 posts

Barcelona (& all of Spain) has a variety of wonderful food, including lots of fresh vegetables & rice dishes. However, those who criticize McDonald's are missing a valuable cultural experience. We have enjoyed meals at McDonald's throughout Europe & Asia, because we like being with the locals & seeing the addition of regional items on the menu. Most McDonald's have clean bathrooms (for customers) & free wi-fi. The previously mentioned Fresc. chain usually has enough to satisfy vegetarians, although the menu varies from day to day.

Posted by
3052 posts

Please DON'T spoil your trip by visiting McDonald's and the likes when you can have wonderful meals for as low as 10-12€ (menu del dia) in many restaurants and taste one of the best cuisines in the world -not my saying but the most prestigious critics in the world, just do a quick google check on "catalan cuisine".

Have a quick look at either of this for some ideas:
http://www.timeout.com/barcelona/food-drink
www.bcnrestaurantes.com/eng