Xemei - the Venetian word for twins - is the creation of Stefano and Max Colombo, twins from Venice who are also behind much-loved Bar Brutal. A love letter to the cuisine of their hometown, they have been serving their Venetian menu spanning classic antipasti, homemade pasta and fresh fish in Poble-Sec for over twenty years. Book an outdoor table on the street side terrace and settle in for a long lunch.

Founded by a pair of Bar Brutal alumni, this cosy corner address in lively Sant Antoni has become a busy neighborhood spot, fast. Part bistro, part natural wine bar, it really punches above its weight when it comes to food with local and seasonal ingredients transformed into sharing plates that intrigue and delight. Equally as good for a glass of wine and a bite sat at the counter or a long meal with friends on the terrace.  

Plaça del Sortidor is the central square of neighborhood Poble-Sec and has a real local-feel , making it a lovely spot to spend a few hours people-watching. On one corner of the square is La Galena, a light-filled street level cafe and one of the best spots in this part of town for artisanal coffee (they serve Harmony Roasters) and all day brunch as well as fresh juices and homemade cakes.  

On the always-buzzing Carrer de Blai where pintxos rule the menus, Denassus is doing something a little different. Come for the extensive list of natural wine, stay for the regular changing seasonal tapas menu and don’t miss the local mushrooms if they are on the list. It’s a skinny slither of a bar mainly set up for tables of two making it a great spot for a date.