Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of traditional Catalan dishes and Spanish culinary delights. Whether you're strolling through the bustling markets or dining in a cozy local restaurant, the city's food scene is bound to impress. Here are the top 10 foods you must try in Barcelona:

1. Pa amb Tomàquet

A staple of Catalan cuisine, pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato) is a simple yet flavorful dish. Fresh bread is rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. Often served as a side or tapa, it's a must-try in Barcelona.

2. Patatas Bravas

One of Spain’s most famous tapas, patatas bravas are crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy bravas sauce and aioli. Every bar and restaurant has its own twist on this dish, making it a fun one to sample in different places.

3. Bombas

Originating from Barcelona, bombas are deep-fried potato balls filled with minced meat and topped with aioli and bravas sauce. They were first created in the Barceloneta district and are a must-try if you love flavorful, crispy bites.

4. Calçots with Romesco Sauce

A seasonal specialty, calçots are long, green onions grilled over an open flame and served with a rich romesco sauce made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, almonds, and garlic. If you're visiting in winter or early spring, look out for a calçotada (calçot feast).

5. Esqueixada

This refreshing Catalan salad features shredded salted cod mixed with tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives, and olive oil. It’s a light yet flavorful dish perfect for a warm day in Barcelona.

6. Fideuà

Similar to paella but made with short, thin noodles instead of rice, fideuà is a seafood-rich dish cooked with prawns, squid, and fish broth. It’s best enjoyed by the seaside in Barceloneta.

7. Canelons

A popular dish in Catalonia, canelons (cannelloni) are stuffed pasta tubes filled with minced meat, spinach, or seafood, then topped with béchamel sauce and baked to perfection. It's a traditional dish served during Christmas but can be found year-round.

8. Xipirons

Xipirons are small, crispy fried squid served with aioli or lemon. They’re a favorite among locals and can be found in many tapas bars across the city.

9. Crema Catalana

Catalonia’s answer to crème brûlée, crema catalana is a rich, creamy custard dessert topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. It’s flavored with lemon zest and cinnamon, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.

10. Churros with Hot Chocolate

Although churros are popular throughout Spain, Barcelona’s version is particularly indulgent. Freshly fried churros are served with thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Where to Try These Dishes in Barcelona

To taste these authentic dishes, visit local markets like La Boqueria, traditional bodegas, and family-run restaurants. Or better yet, join a food tour in Barcelona and let a local guide take you to the best hidden gems where you can savor these culinary delights.



Barcelona’s food scene is an unforgettable experience filled with bold flavors and rich traditions. Don’t miss out on these top 10 foods during your visit!