Top 14 Best Paella Restaurants in Barcelona

Traveling has a lot of benefits, and it helps add more experience to the bag. One of the most amazing experiences you can get is trying different dishes from different places.

If you are in Barcelona, or you have plans to go, I will be sharing with you 14 of the best paella restaurants in Barcelona where you can get the best paella in Barcelona.

Beyond the beautiful beaches and architectural marvels, Barcelona’s beauty lies in its diverse food choices, where paella takes center stage. From the captivating aromas of saffron-infused rice to the tantalizing blend of succulent seafood or savory meats, this dish has stolen the hearts of many Barcelonians and travelers alike.

Paella has evolved into a nationwide culinary emblem, and Barcelona, one of Spain’s most famous cities, is home to an array of paella restaurants that perfectly capture the flavor of this rice-based delicacy. 

So, prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey as we whisk you away to the bustling streets and enchanting alleys of Barcelona, in search of the Best Paella Restaurant in Barcelona that will leave an indelible mark on your taste buds and your heart.

What is Paella?

Paella is a celebrated Spanish rice dish with roots in the Valencia region. Traditionally prepared in a wide, shallow pan named a “paellera,” it’s known for its vibrant yellow color, a result of the prized spice saffron.

The foundation of paella is short-grain rice, chosen for its ability to absorb the flavors of other ingredients during cooking. Saffron, the star of the show, infuses the dish with its signature golden hue and a delicate, earthy aroma. Olive oil provides the base for the flavorful cooking liquid.

Vegetables like tomatoes, onions, peppers, and peas are frequently included, adding pops of color and freshness. Traditionally, protein comes from chicken, rabbit, or a combination of seafood like shrimp, mussels, or clams. However, paella offers flexibility.

While the classic Valencian version has specific ingredients, numerous regional variations exist. Popular options include paella de marisco (seafood paella), paella mixta (combining meat and seafood), and paella vegetariana (a vegetarian version with vegetables and sometimes beans).

Loved for its deliciousness and versatility, paella is a culinary treasure that reflects the rich heritage of Spain.

Do they do paella in Barcelona?

Absolutely! Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, embraces paella with open arms. While paella originates from Valencia, further south along the Spanish coast, it has become a national dish enjoyed throughout the country, and Barcelona offers a delicious and vibrant take on this iconic meal.

Traditionally, paella is a celebratory dish, and Barcelona provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy it. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to savor the local cuisine, you’ll find numerous restaurants specializing in paella.

These restaurants often use fresh, seasonal ingredients, and some even showcase paella being cooked over open flames in large paella pans, adding to the culinary experience.

So, if you’re visiting Barcelona and have a taste for paella, rest assured you’re in the right place. From classic Valencian styles to seafood variations or more contemporary takes, Barcelona’s culinary scene promises a delicious paella experience.

How much should I pay for paella in Barcelona?

The cost of paella in Barcelona depends on the type of restaurant, location, and portion size.

• Budget-friendly: Local restaurants outside tourist areas offer paella for €15-€20 per person.
• Mid-range: Expect €25-€35 per person at good quality restaurants.
• High-end: Exclusive options with gourmet ingredients or views can reach €40 or more.

Remember, many restaurants have a minimum order of two, and the price might not include drinks or sides. Do your research to find a delicious paella experience that fits your budget and preferences.

Factors That Make a Great Paella Restaurant

Making great paella is an art, and several factors contribute to the success of a paella restaurant. Here are the key factors that I considered while coming up with the best paella restaurant in Barcelona:

Quality of Ingredients

The foundation of an exceptional paella is the use of high-quality ingredients. This includes rice, saffron, olive oil, and a variety of fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables. The rice should be of the appropriate short-grain variety, such as Bomba or Calasparra, which absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

Authenticity and Tradition

A great paella restaurant adheres to traditional cooking methods and recipes. Authentic paella is often cooked over an open flame using a wide, shallow pan called a “paellera.” Chefs who respect traditional techniques are more likely to produce authentic and flavorful dishes.

Skill and Expertise

The chef’s expertise and experience play a significant role in the outcome of the paella. It takes skill to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures while ensuring the rice is cooked to perfection.

Consistency

A top-notch paella restaurant maintains consistency in the quality of its dishes. Customers should expect the same level of excellence each time they visit.

The Freshness of Seafood and Ingredients

For seafood paellas, the freshness of the seafood is paramount. The best paella restaurant in Barcelona source their ingredients locally and ensure they are fresh and of the highest quality.

Ambiance and Setting

The ambiance of the restaurant can enhance the dining experience. Paella is often enjoyed with family and friends, so a warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to the enjoyment of the meal.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Positive customer reviews and a solid reputation within the local community are indicative of a great paella restaurant. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be powerful in identifying the best places to enjoy this iconic dish.

With that in mind, let’s now dive into the list of restaurants where you can get the best paella in Barcelona.

Best Paella Restaurant in Barcelona

In no particular order, here are the top restaurants you can have the best paella in Barcelona;

1. Terraza Martínez 
2. Can Solé
3. La Mar Salada
4. Arume
5. Elche
6. Cheriff
7. Barraca
8. 7 Portes
9. Xiringuito Escribà
10. Bodega Joan
11. The Paella Club
12. Diània 
13. Envalira
14. CruiX 

1. Terraza Martínez 

Location: Ctra. de Miramar, 38

Must-try dish: Señorito paella

The first on our list of restaurants where you can get the best paella in Barcelona is Terraza Martínez. Located at the top of Montjuic, this restaurant prepares one of the best paella in Barcelona to date.

When it comes to savoring rice dishes done right, Martinez stands out as a top choice. The tantalizing menu boasts a delightful selection of quality fish and meats, expertly cooked over quebracho charcoal, a distinctive Argentine wood known for imparting rich flavors. For seafood, Martinez serves a range of enticing seafood-based dishes, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all palates.

The open-air setting adds a touch of magic to your dining experience, allowing you to bask in the natural beauty of Montjuïc while relishing the culinary delights on offer. They also offer a €52 set menu for two, featuring vermouth, tapas, salad, wines, a delectable rice dish, and dessert.

2. Can Solé

Location: Calle Sant Carles, 4, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Must-try dish: Rice in fish broth with local lobster

The next on our list is Can Solé. This restaurant is one of the best paella restaurants in Barcelona with decades of experience. Since its opening in 1903, this restaurant has been delighting both citizens and visitors alike with its authentic marine cuisine. 

Their menu is a seafood lover’s dream, featuring a variety of mouthwatering options like mini calamari, baby squid, red prawn, and clams. But here’s the insider tip: don’t miss their famous paella! The lobster paella and squid paella are said to be absolute winners.

3. La Mar Salada

Location:  Passeig de Joan de Borbó, 58, 59.

Must-try dish: Black rice with cuttlefish and artichokes.

Whenever you are in Barceloneta and hunger sets in, this restaurant should be your first option to visit for the best paella or rice dish. Not only do they serve some of the city’s best paellas, but they are also renowned as one of Barcelona’s top seafood restaurants.

What sets La Mar Salada apart is their unwavering commitment to freshness. Every morning, they venture out to bring in the catch of the day, ensuring that their seafood is as fresh as can be. This dedication to quality shines through in their spectacular stews and paellas, making every bite a culinary delight.

For a delightful experience, I highly recommend trying their ‘de senyoret’ rice with the freshest catch of the day or indulging in the black rice with cuttlefish and artichokes. And don’t forget to leave some space for dessert – you won’t want to miss it!

4. Arume

Location: Calle Botella, 11-13, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Must-try dish: Duck Paella

Located in the vibrant Raval neighborhood, Arume stands out as a delightful choice for solo paella seekers. While many places require a minimum order of two, here you can savor some of the best paella all to yourself. At an affordable price of around 16 euros, you’ll be delighted by the generous portions of high-quality ingredients in every bite.

Barcelona’s seafood paella scene might be overwhelming for those with allergies, and if that is your case, fear not! Arume offers a solution with their specialty duck paella. Diners rave about this life-changing dish, making it a must-try alongside the beloved seafood paella.

Make your way to Arume and treat yourself to a solo paella adventure that blends affordability, quality, and flavor in the heart of Barcelona’s food scene.

5. Elche

Location: C/ Vila I Vilà, 71, Barcelona 08004

Must-try dish: Black rice with squid and artichokes

Elche is another restaurant where you can get the best paella in Barcelona. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, this family-owned restaurant is a true bastion of tradition, serving up classic seafood and chicken paellas.

Elche exudes an elegant and classy ambiance, adorned with white tablecloths that add a touch of refinement to the dining experience. Though not the most budget-friendly option, the combination of great food and attentive service at a more affordable price than high-end spots makes it a worthy choice.

6. Cheriff

Location: Ginebra, 15-17, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Must-try dish: Lobster paella

Cheriff is among the top contenders in Barcelona, aiming to serve some of the best paella in Barcelona. While we can’t declare it as the absolute No. 1, it certainly holds a well-deserved spot on our list. Countless fans vouch for Cheriff, claiming they craft the best paellas in town.

Cheriff’s fish paellas are truly unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression in your memory. For an extra indulgence, treat yourself to their mouthwatering lobster rice stew, an exquisite dish that promises an unparalleled culinary experience.

Join the ranks of Cheriff’s loyal patrons and discover why this restaurant is revered for its delectable paellas. With a stellar reputation that precedes it, Cheriff is a must-visit destination for any paella enthusiast exploring the flavors of Barcelona.

7. Barraca

Must try dish: Artichoke, squid, and sausage paella

Location: Lluca 56-58, 08028 Barcelona, Spain

This urban beach restaurant, situated at Barceloneta Beach, elevates paella to new heights. Under the watchful eye of double Michelin-starred chef Xavier Pellicer, Barraca crafts a menu boasting six rice specialties that are sure to delight.

The menu includes standouts like artichoke, squid, and sausage paella – a dry, light, and incredibly tasty dish. Alternatively, indulge in the more filling paella with perfect rice and fish fillet, or opt for the rich black rice casserole. With their slogan ‘Rice and Sea’, Barraca guarantees a memorable culinary journey.

Ensure you secure a seat in the upstairs dining room, as it offers an incredible view of the beach. The 30-35 euro price range presents an excellent price-quality ratio for the neighborhood, making Barraca an attractive option for beach lovers and people-watchers alike. Vegetarians will also find satisfaction in the delightful organic vegetable paella.

8. 7 Portes

Location: Pg. Isabel II, 14 – 08003 Barcelona

Must-try dish: cod fritters

7 Portes is one of the oldest restaurants that prepares the best paella in Barcelona. At 7 Portes, every dish leaves a lasting impression, but some hold a special place in your heart. Don’t miss the amazing cod fritters, a tantalizing treat that will linger on your taste buds even between courses.

When it’s time for paella, indulge in their fantastic paella Parellada – a favorite of over 70 percent of their clientele. This delectable rice dish features a delightful combination of monkfish, mussels, squid, lobster, minced pork, ‘botifarra’ sausage, and rabbit.

For seafood lovers, a sumptuous seafood-only version is also available, with all the seafood expertly peeled for your convenience, allowing you to dive straight into the pleasure.

9. Xiringuito Escribà

Loacation:  Ave. del Litoral 62, 08005 Barcelona

Must-try dish: Surf & turf paella

The next on our list of restaurants where you can get the best paella in Barcelona is Xiringuito Escribà. Located right at the front of the popular Bogatell Beach, this restaurant has been making one of the best paella in Barcelona for over 30 years.

Whether you are looking for the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or just a post-beach meal, this is the right place for you. You can get tapas, fresh seafood, and most importantly top quality rice dishes for affordable amounts in this restaurant.

There are several various paellas available, including vegetarian, traditional seafood, and the “surf & turf” paella, which features chicken and lobster. All for affordable costs and with stunning offshore views.

10. Bodega Joan

Location: C/ del Rosselló, 164, 08036 Barcelona, Spain

Must-try dish: Black rice with squid and artichokes

If you’re in search of a delightful and affordable paella experience in Barcelona, look no further than Bodega Joan. This charming restaurant excels in creating mouthwatering mixed paella, and black rice.

Bodega Joan takes pride in catering to various palates, offering an extensive selection of paella options. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a meat lover, or a vegetarian, this restaurant has got you covered.

Beyond the exceptional food, Bodega Joan boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, thanks in no small part to its friendly and welcoming waitstaff. 

While some paella-tasting menus in the city can be quite pricey, starting at around €35 per person and reaching up to €50, Bodega Joan offers a refreshing exception by providing high-quality paella at a more budget-friendly price point. 

So, if you’re craving the best paella experience without breaking the bank, Bodega Joan comes highly recommended as your go-to destination to get the best paella in Barcelona.

11. The Paella Club

Location: Carrer del Dr. Dou 5, 08001 Barcelona

Must-try dish: Black rice with squid ink

The Paella Club is a unique restaurant where you can get the best paella in Raval. One of the characteristics that make this restaurant stand out from the crowd is the fact that you can make your own Paella under the supervision of chef Alex Villar (a Noma alum).

Get ready for a fun and rewarding experience if you’re heading to this restaurant because you’ll don an apron and head to your cooking station, where you’ll stir, brown, and season paella like a pro. There’s a standby chef there to assist you even if you have no experience cooking.

Also, they have a variety of dishes there including seafood, meat, vegetarian paella, and black rice with squid ink. The best dining experience is the evening ‘Full Menu’ (€85) with five courses and unlimited wine, but for a quicker option, choose the afternoon ‘Amuse Bouche’ class (€55) for essential paella basics.

12. Diània 

Location: Carrer de Mozart, 20, 08012 Barcelona

Must-try dish: Valencian meat-based paella with chicken, rabbit, and fresh artichokes

For a taste of truly authentic Valencian paella, look no further than Diània! Hidden away on a narrow street in the bohemian Gràcia district, this restaurant is truly a hidden gem. 

The restaurant is been run by twin brothers from Valencia’s Safor province, who pride themselves on sourcing ingredients from local farms and small producers, resulting in paella that’s out of this world!

Their selection may be limited, but their rice dishes are exceptional. The must-try classic Valencian meat-based paella with chicken, rabbit, and fresh artichokes is a steal at just €17.50 per person. However, the real star is the cuttlefish-and-prawn arroz del senyoret.

Finding both authenticity and value in one of the city’s affluent districts is rare, so don’t miss out on this fantastic dining experience at Diània! Head there to get the best paella experience in Carrer de Mozart.

13. Envalira

Location: Plaça del Sol, 13, Gracia

Must-try dish: Arrós a la Milanesa

Since 1972, Envalira has been a charming hole-in-the-wall, family-style restaurant serving one of the best paella in Barcelona. If you crave traditional Catalan dishes, their arrós a la Milanesa is a delightful paella-risotto hybrid, featuring chicken broth, parmesan cheese, and saffron—a truly delicious rice dish.

Located in the heart of Gràcia, Envalira proves that you don’t have to battle the Barceloneta crowds for great paella or rice dishes. The unpretentious decor takes a backseat to their mouthwatering seafood paella, black rice, and Milanesa rice, leaving you with an unforgettable experience. 

Don’t miss seasonal specialties like wild mushrooms (‘rovellons’), and save room for dessert with treats like tiramisu ice cream or fresh figs served with cream and chocolate sauce. A dining experience at Envalira is sure to linger in your dreams for weeks to come.

14. CruiX 

Location: Entença, 57, Eixample Esquerre, Barcelona 08015

Must-try dish: Arròs de gambes a l’allet

The last on our list of the best paella restaurants in Barcelona is CruiX. This restaurant is renowned for its signature tapas and exceptional rice dishes, making it arguably the best paella spot in Eixample.

Conveniently located just minutes away from Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain, CruiX is an ideal choice for a post-event paella celebration.

What truly stands out here are their irresistible €35 set menus, featuring the mouthwatering arròs de gambes a l’allet—a delectable paella with garlic prawns that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss the chance to savor the unforgettable flavors at CruiX.

FAQs

Conclusion

In a city renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, the search for the best paella restaurant can be both exciting and challenging. However, after a gastronomic journey through Barcelona’s finest eateries, it’s clear that there are many places where you can get amazing Paella dishes.

From the outstanding taste of the paella dishes to wonderful views, each of the top 14 best paella restaurants has something unique to offer. Whether it’s savoring the authentic flavors of Bodega Joan or the beautiful view from Diània and Envalira, these culinary hotspots embody the essence of Spain’s beloved rice dish.

Search through this list, find the paella restaurant that is closest to you, give it a visit, and share your experience in the comment section. 

Recommendations

• Top 20 Visa-Free Countries for New Zealand Passport
• Top 14 Best Rooftop Restaurants in Barcelona
• 12 Best Spanish Restaurants In Barcelona