Few dishes capture the spirit of Spain quite like paella. Golden, saffron-scented, and meant to be shared, it’s the kind of meal that invites conversation and connection.While Valencia may be paella’s birthplace, Barcelona has embraced the dish with open arms, adding its own coastal twist.
Between its beachside terraces, traditional seafood houses, and creative modern kitchens, you’ll find some of the best paella in Barcelona waiting to be discovered. Before we break down all the city’s best spots, let’s take a quick look at what makes paella so special, and why it’s worth slowing down for at least one long afternoon while you’re here.
🥘 What Exactly Is Paella?
The base starts with a sofrito (a slow-cooked mix of olive oil, tomato, garlic, and sometimes onion), followed by short-grain rice (usually Bomba or Calasparra) that can absorb loads of flavor without getting mushy.
Paella, traditionally made with seafood, is a group meal meant to be shared
Then comes the magic: saffron, which gives the rice that warm golden color and signature aroma. Depending on where you are, the toppings change: chicken if you’re inland, or plump prawns, mussels, squid, and clams if you’re by the sea. And don’t forget the socarrat, that crispy, caramelized layer of rice at the bottom of the pan that locals will tell you is the best part.
Now that you know what makes a good paella in Barcelona (and what to look out for), it’s time to taste the real thing. Here are some of the best paella restaurants in Barcelona, grouped by budget so you can find the perfect one for your meal.
⭐ Budget-Friendly Paella Spots
1. Elche (Poble Sec)
Traditional paella in a cozy, family-run setting, Photo Credit: Sandra Wei on Unsplash
Cozy and family-run, with wooden accents and vintage photos of Barcelona’s old theater district, Elche is your place for traditional Valencian and seafood paellas (especially the squid-ink arroz negro) without breaking the bank.
📍 Where: Poble Sec, near Paral·lel Avenue.
🏞️ Pair with: Catch a show along Avinguda del Paral·lel or take a Montjuïc cable car up the mountain to visit the castle and gorgeous city views.
Now, If tasting paella isn’t enough, why not make it yourself? Barcelona offers a few fantastic hands-on classes where you can learn from local chefs — a must for any foodie. One option to consider is the Seafood Paella Maestro with Tapas & Sangria experience, where you’ll master the sofrito, simmer your rice, and toast with sangria when it’s ready. Each class includes generous tastings and is an unforgettable (and delicious) souvenir of your trip.
![[us] Montjuic Castle](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1755183089/xfx10ximecnotb54cjnn.jpg)
2. L'Arrosseria Xàtiva (San Antoni)
Enjoy a wide selection of paellas, including vegan options, Photo Credit: encantadíssim on Flickr
Bright, casual, and homey, L'Arrosseria Xàtiva specializes in rice dishes, with a huge selection of paellas (over 25 flavors) and fideuàs (noodle paella) on their menu. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available!
📍 Where: Sant Antoni neighborhood
🏞️ Pair with: Visit Mercat de Sant Antoni, a farmer’s market popular among locals, or browse the vintage shops and cafés in this trendy area.
If you’re DIY-ing your itinerary, a Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour might be worth considering to make getting around easier. This brings you to all of Barcelona’s best-loved landmarks, and since it’s a hop-on hop-off bus, you can freely choose where you want to alight and explore for the day.
3. Can Majó (Barceloneta)
Fresh seafood is a highlight for beachfront spots, Photo Credit: Armando Brenhla on Unsplash
If you want to hit the beach after you dine, consider spending the afternoon at Can Majó. Located a few steps away from the Barceloneta beachfront, you’ll have easy access to the ocean when you’re here. Rustic and relaxed, this restaurant specializes in seafood paella (paella marinera) and fresh fish starters.
📌 Where: Barceloneta beachfront.
🏞️Pair with: Walk along Barceloneta Beach or a visit to the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s historic city center.
If you’re a history and culture buff, this Barcelona Gothic Quarter Walking Tour might be perfect for you. With a friendly local guide, you’ll hit all the historical landmarks in this area including La Rambla, Plaça Reial, and the Barcelona Cathedral.
⭐ Mid-Range Favorites
4. Can Solé (Barceloneta)
Outside the historic eatery, Photo Credit: Wikipedia Commons
Can Solé has been a local favorite for more than a century for paella in Barcelona. Founded in 1903, this charming eatery is one of the most beloved seafood restaurants in Barcelona. Menu highlights include their seafood paella with scallops and sea urchins, as well as other Catalan classics like crispy cod fritters.
📍 Where: Carrer de Sant Carles, 4
🏞️ Pair with: If you’re looking to spice up your itinerary with a cultural experience, you can do a Flamenco Show at Tablao Cordobes in the evening after spending lunch here (after all, lunch is usually taken quite late at 2PM.)
5. La Barca del Salamanca (Port Olímpic)
Founded in 1971, La Barca del Salamanca is a landmark restaurant, Photo Credit: Tony Gálvez on Flickr
Located right beside the port, you can enjoy ocean views while enjoying some of the best paella in Barcelona at La Barca del Salamanca. Specialties include the Marinera paella, lobster rice, and mixed seafood dishes. There is indoor and outdoor seating, so ask to be seated at the terrace for a good view!
📍Where: Port Olímpic’s Moll de Gregal.
🏞️ Pair with: Drinks at the marina or a beach walk to Bogatell Beach. For the beach lovers, we break down the best beach spots in Barcelona in our guide below — and yes, you can enjoy them even if you go off-season. 😉
6. Can Fisher (Bogatell Beach)
Bogatell Beach is one of Barcelona’s famous beaches, Photo Credit: Ralf Roletschek via Wikipedia Commons
Can Fisher opened its doors in 2017, and has since gained a reputation for gorgeous beachfront and market-fresh seafood. We recommend spending an entire afternoon here, enjoying their selection of fish dishes (try out the chef’s recommendation!) and black rice paella. While it is a bit pricey, the location makes it worth it.
📍 Where: Bogatell Beach, accessible via Metro Poblenou.
🏞️ Pair with: Walk along Bogatell and Nova Icaria beaches.
You can stay connected on the go (and without carrying around a bulky device) using a Europe eSIM. Unlike a traditional SIM card which needs to be swapped in and out, this can be installed via QR code and works the entire EU region.
7. Arrosseria Gaudí (Eixample)
View of the Sagrada Familia from the Vinguda Gaudí area, Photo Credit: Wikipedia Commons
Arrosseria Gaudí is a relaxed spot located at the Vinguda Gaudi near the famous Sagrada Familia, with mosaic-inspired décor that nods to Gaudí’s signature style. Must-try items include the Paella de Marisco (a hearty seafood version topped with prawns, squid, and mussels), and Arroz Negro con Chipirones (black seafood paella).
📍 Location: Carrer de la Nàpols, 189
🏞️ Pair with: A visit to the Sagrada Família, just an easy 6-minute walk away.
⭐ Splurge-Worthy Paella Experiences
8. 7 Portes (Port Vell / Born Edge)
Indulge in a classy fine dining experience at 7 Portes, Photo Credit: Wikipedia Commons
A Barcelona institution since 1836, 7 Portes is famous for its old-world charm: arched ceilings, checkered floors, and waiters in white jackets. The Paella Parellada, known as the “gentleman’s paella,” is the star here, made with peeled seafood and tender chicken for easy eating.
📍 Location: Passeig Isabel II, 14
🏞️ Pair with: A visit to the Picasso Museum in El Born, just a short 7-minute walk away.
9. La Mar Salada (Vila Olímpica)
Paella negra gets its black color from squid ink, Photo Credit: Wendy Wei on Pexels
Bright and breezy, La Mar Salada is a family-run restaurant known for keeping things fresh — literally. The menu changes daily depending on what comes in from the docks. Their black rice with squid ink and cuttlefish is a standout, and the lobster paella is worth the splurge. Expect friendly service, coastal décor, and an easygoing atmosphere perfect for a slow afternoon.
📍 Location: Passeig Joan de Borbó, 58
🏞️ Pair with: Try out Jon Cake’s El Born Handpicked Food Tour to explore more of Barcelona’s local cuisine (tapas, beers, desserts) to get the full culinary experience!
10. Rías de Galicia/RíasKru (Poble Sec)
Paella served in a smaller pan with plenty of fresh seafood and veggies, Photo Credit: Ronald Vargas on Unsplash
Rías de Galicia, a fine dining restaurant serving some of the best paella in Barcelona, and Espai KRU, which serves Japanese-inspired cuisine, have combined concepts and serve dishes from both restaurants under the RíasKru name. Their “mar i muntanya” paella (sea and mountain) mixes prawns, clams, and Iberian pork for a deeply savory flavor you won’t find elsewhere. Pair it with the grilled razor clams for an unforgettable meal.
📍 Location: Passeig Joan de Borbó, 58
🏞️ Pair with: Tapas-hopping along Carrer de Blai or catching a performance in the area’s many small theaters. If you’re interested in flamenco or just looking for a unique cultural experience, you can opt for a Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes in the evening!
11. Xiringuito Escribà (Bogatell Beach)
Xiringuito Escribà’s special paella is great for larger groups with its generous servings, Photo Credit: Tina Wong on Flickr
Right on Bogatell Beach, Xiringuito Escribà combines ocean views with easygoing style. With wooden tables, open windows, and sand just steps away, this is a great place for lunch by the sea. The Escribà special paella is the must-try, loaded with fresh mussels, shrimp, langoustines, clams, cuttlefish, artichoke and green pepper.
📍 Location: Avinguda del Litoral, 62
🏞️ Pair with: Great lunch stop after biking the coast or exploring Port Olímpic.
🌆 Before you go
These spots prove that the best paella in Barcelona isn’t found on a tourist menu — it’s shared between friends, over a glass of wine, with the Mediterranean breeze nearby.
Before you go, you can check out our guides on the Best Barcelona Restaurants and Things to Do in Barcelona for more inspiration for your itinerary. Buen provecho, and happy eating!
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FAQs about Paella in Barcelona
What is the best paella in Barcelona?
Barcelona is full of fantastic spots to try paella, from traditional seafood versions to modern twists with local ingredients. The best paella often depends on personal taste: some prefer the rich seafood versions cooked with squid ink (arroz negro), while others love mixed paella with both meat and seafood. A good rule of thumb: look for restaurants that cook paella to order and serve it in the classic wide pan, rather than offering it as a quick “menu del día” option.
What is a must-eat in Barcelona?
Aside from paella, don’t miss other Catalan dishes like fideuà (a noodle-based version of paella), botifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with beans), and crema catalana for dessert. Tapas such as bombas from Barceloneta, patatas bravas, and pà amb tomàquet (toasted bread with tomato) are also essentials for any food lover visiting the city.
Where to find paella for one person in Barcelona?
Paella is traditionally meant to be shared, but many restaurants in Barcelona now offer individual servings (paella individual) for solo travelers or small appetites. Look for lunch menus or seaside cafés that cook smaller pans to order. If you’re visiting markets like La Boqueria or El Ninot, you can also find food stalls serving fresh, ready-to-eat paella by the plate.
How do locals eat paella in Barcelona?
Locals usually enjoy paella as a leisurely lunch dish, especially on weekends with family or friends. It’s not a quick meal: it’s meant to be savored, often paired with a glass of crisp white wine, cava, or sangria. And yes, it’s common to scrape the crispy rice layer at the bottom of the pan (socarrat) since it’s considered the best part!
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