Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. From the stunning architecture to the rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of things to explore and experience in this beautiful Spanish city. One of the most iconic and beloved local traditions is the Calcotada, a festive celebration centered around the consumption of calcots, a type of spring onion that’s typically harvested in late winter and early spring. For those who are new to this culinary delight, the Calcotada is a time-honored event that brings people together to enjoy these delicious, slightly sweet, and succulent onions, often served with romesco sauce, a rich and nutty condiment made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and almonds.
As the Calcotada season approaches, many locals and visitors alike flock to the city’s restaurants and bars to indulge in this mouth-watering delicacy. But where can you find the best calcots in Barcelona? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city’s top spots to enjoy these tasty treats, from traditional taverns to modern restaurants and everything in between.
Traditional Calcotada Spots
For an authentic Calcotada experience, head to these traditional taverns and restaurants that have been serving up calcots for generations.
Can Culleretes
This historic tavern, established in 1786, is one of the oldest in Barcelona and a must-visit for any food enthusiast. Can Culleretes offers a traditional Calcotada menu, featuring calcots served with romesco sauce, as well as other local specialties like escalivada and botifarra.
Address: Carrer de l’Hospital, 49, 08001 Barcelona
Cal Pep
This cozy tavern, located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Cal Pep serves up a delicious Calcotada menu, including calcots with romesco sauce, as well as other traditional Catalan dishes like fideuà and xarcuteria.
Address: Plaça de les Olles, 8, 08003 Barcelona
El Quim de la Boqueria
This famous market stall, located in the iconic La Boqueria Market, offers a unique Calcotada experience. El Quim de la Boqueria serves up fresh calcots with romesco sauce, as well as other local specialties like jamón ibérico and fresh seafood.
Address: La Boqueria Market, Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona (See Also: Where to Eat in Mykonos Greece? Island Delights)
Modern Calcotada Spots
For a more modern take on the Calcotada, head to these innovative restaurants and bars that offer creative twists on this traditional dish.
Tickets Bar
This Michelin-starred restaurant, led by the innovative chef Adrià, offers a unique Calcotada experience. Tickets Bar serves up a modern take on the traditional dish, featuring calcots with romesco sauce, as well as other creative twists like calcot croquettes and calcot empanadas.
Address: Carrer de l’Avinguda del Paraŀlel, 164, 08015 Barcelona
Disfrutar
This innovative restaurant, also led by Adrià, offers a modern Calcotada experience. Disfrutar serves up a creative take on the traditional dish, featuring calcots with romesco sauce, as well as other innovative dishes like calcot foam and calcot gel.
Address: Carrer de Villarroel, 163, 08036 Barcelona
Calcotada Markets
For a more casual Calcotada experience, head to these markets and food stalls that offer a variety of calcot-based dishes.
La Boqueria Market
This iconic market, located in the heart of the city, offers a variety of calcot-based dishes, including fresh calcots with romesco sauce, calcot croquettes, and calcot empanadas.
Address: La Boqueria Market, Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona
La Maquinista Market
This bustling market, located in the Horta-Guinardó district, offers a variety of calcot-based dishes, including fresh calcots with romesco sauce, calcot skewers, and calcot salad. (See Also: Where to Eat in Felixstowe? Coastal Delights)
Address: Carrer de la Maquinista, 16, 08030 Barcelona
Calcotada Festivals
For a truly immersive Calcotada experience, head to these festivals and events that celebrate this beloved tradition.
Calcotada de Sant Esteve
This annual festival, held in late January, celebrates the start of the Calcotada season. The festival features live music, traditional food, and calcot-themed activities.
Address: Various locations throughout Barcelona
Calcotada de la Mercè
This annual festival, held in late September, celebrates the patron saint of Barcelona. The festival features live music, traditional food, and calcot-themed activities.
Address: Various locations throughout Barcelona
Conclusion
Barcelona’s Calcotada is a beloved tradition that brings people together to enjoy delicious calcots with romesco sauce. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Calcotada experience or a modern twist, this guide has you covered. From historic taverns to modern restaurants and markets, there’s no shortage of options to try this tasty treat. So why not join the Calcotada fun and experience the best of Barcelona’s culinary scene?
Recap
Here’s a quick recap of the top spots to eat calcots in Barcelona: (See Also: Where to Eat in Williams? Foodie Favorites)
- Traditional Calcotada spots: Can Culleretes, Cal Pep, El Quim de la Boqueria
- Modern Calcotada spots: Tickets Bar, Disfrutar
- Calcotada markets: La Boqueria Market, La Maquinista Market
- Calcotada festivals: Calcotada de Sant Esteve, Calcotada de la Mercè
FAQs
What is a Calcotada?
A Calcotada is a traditional Catalan festival that celebrates the consumption of calcots, a type of spring onion. The festival typically takes place in late winter and early spring, and features live music, traditional food, and calcot-themed activities.
What is romesco sauce?
Romesco sauce is a rich and nutty condiment made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and almonds. It’s typically served with calcots and is a key component of the Calcotada tradition.
Where can I find calcots in Barcelona?
Calcots are widely available in Barcelona, particularly during the Calcotada season. You can find them at traditional taverns, modern restaurants, markets, and food stalls throughout the city.
What is the best way to eat calcots?
The best way to eat calcots is with romesco sauce, which is typically served with them. You can also try calcots with other sauces or condiments, such as aioli or garlic mayonnaise.
Can I make my own calcots at home?
Yes, you can make your own calcots at home by purchasing spring onions and roasting them in the oven. You can also make your own romesco sauce using roasted red peppers, garlic, and almonds.