3 must-visit historical cafes in Barcelona
Museums and historical sites are a great way to discover the real city a bit more, but something else that works great is trying to visit some cafes or restaurants that have been a part of history themselves. So here we have listed three of the most important historical cafes in Barcelona.
Granja M. Viader
When I visited Barcelona for the first time three years ago, a friend of mine decided to show me what she called “a true jewel of the city”. It is a historical cafe that has been working non-stop since 1870 and has memorabilia from all those years on its walls. You can find black and white photographies from the first decades of its life on the walls, as well as modern paintings that depict the granja in all of its glory. Picasso used to visit it for a chocolate, but if you happen to pass by, make sure to try it along with some fresh churros, or a crema Catalana. For chocolate milk lovers, try a Cacaolat, a vintage type of refreshment that will bring back the memories of your childhood.
Address: Carrer d’en Xuclà, 4, 08001 Barcelona
La Marsella
Hidden away into a busy corner in El Raval, is the oldest bar in Barcelona, la Marsella. Hemingway and Picasso were frequent visitors here and you can see that the decor still maintains a vintage aesthetic of the years that have been. One of the most beautiful historical cafes in Barcelona, la Marsella’s specialty is absinthe and if you feel puzzled by the way they serve it to you. Ask the bartender to show you the proper way and make sure you don’t start your night with a drink like this unless you have the next day free for a hangover!
Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 65, 08001 Barcelona
Els 4 Gats
Among other historical cafes in Barcelona, one restaurant is a great catch for those trying to eat in a Catalan way, while at the same time get a brief historical tour around it. The 4 Gats is a very famous restaurant near Plaça Catalunya that will get you back to the time when Gaudi and Picasso used to go there for a bite. The ambiance is great and the staff is very friendly, helping you with their recommendations. It is more of an elegant place but is definitely worth it. Keep it in mind for a big date or another special occasion.
Address: Carrer de Montsió, 3, 08002 Barcelona