Where to Eat the Best Paella in Barcelona 2026

The paella is one of Spain’s most iconic dishes and among the most sought-after by visitors to Barcelona. However, between tourist spots and traditional restaurants, finding an authentic and perfectly cooked paella isn’t always easy.Here’s a guide to what makes a great paella and where to taste the very best — including two must-visit restaurants in the heart of the city: Casa Rincón de Gràcia and Marana.

Lobster Paella in Casa Rincon

The Authentic Spanish Paella: Tradition, Flavor, and Craftsmanship

Originally from Valencia, paella is much more than a dish — it’s a symbol of Spanish tradition and togetherness.It’s based on rice slowly cooked in a rich broth inside a wide shallow pan (paellera), combined with fresh, quality ingredients.

The most famous types are:

• Paella Valenciana – the original recipe with chicken, rabbit, green beans, and saffron.

• Seafood Paella (Paella de Marisco) – filled with prawns, mussels, and squid, typical of the Mediterranean coast.

• Mixed Paella (Paella Mixta) – a combination of meat and seafood, popular among travelers.

A proper paella has loose, flavorful rice, cooked evenly, with a slightly caramelized base known as socarrat — the golden crust prized by paella lovers.

The Best Paellas in Barcelona: Our Recommendations

1. Can Solé – Tradition and Excellence

Located near the port, Can Solé has been an institution since 1903.Its seafood paella is among the city’s most celebrated, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional care.

2. 7 Portes – A Historic Barcelona Classic

Founded in 1836, 7 Portes is one of the city’s oldest and most elegant restaurants.Their Paella Parellada, served without shells or bones, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

3. Casa Rincón de Gràcia – Authentic Spanish and Catalan Cuisine

For those seeking an authentic paella in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Casa Rincón de Gràcia is an essential stop.Prepared to order with premium local ingredients, their seafood paella blends Catalan flavors with Spanish culinary tradition. Each dish is cooked carefully to achieve the perfect texture and rich depth of flavor.

4. Marana – A Chic Mediterranean Experience on Rambla de Catalunya

Located at Rambla de Catalunya 65, Marana offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience.With creative tapas, rice dishes, and paellas prepared in a modern style, it’s ideal for those looking for a stylish yet authentic meal in the city center.Its elegant ambiance and attention to detail make it one of the top spots for paella in Eixample.

Paella Marisco in Marana

5. Elche – The Taste of Valencia in Barcelona

This family-run restaurant in Poble-sec specializes in traditional Valencian paella.The rice is perfectly cooked with just the right touch of crispness, and the flavors are deep and balanced.

6. La Mar Salada – Paella with a View

Right by the seaside, La Mar Salada serves a modern take on paella while staying faithful to its Mediterranean roots.Seafood is sourced daily from the nearby market, ensuring exceptional freshness and quality.

The Secrets of a Perfect Paella

• The Rice: Always short-grain varieties like bomba or senia for proper absorption.

• The Broth: Rich and homemade, based on fish or poultry stock.

• The Cooking: Slow and even, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

• The Socarrat: The crispy layer of rice at the bottom — a mark of excellence.

  
  

Where to Enjoy All These Paellas in One Place

You don’t need to explore the whole city to experience authentic paella.

At Casa Rincón de Gràcia, you can enjoy an outstanding seafood paella and other traditional Spanish and Catalan dishes, prepared with passion and precision. Ideally located between Passeig de Gràcia, Rambla Catalunya, and Avinguda Diagonal, the restaurant offers an elegant yet friendly atmosphere in the heart of Barcelona.

About Casa Rincón de Gràcia

Casa Rincón de Gràcia is a Spanish and Catalan restaurant ideally located between Passeig de Gràcia, Rambla Catalunya, and Avinguda Diagonal in Barcelona.It offers traditional Spanish and Catalan cuisine prepared with high-quality local ingredients, in an elegant and welcoming atmosphere — the perfect place to discover authentic Mediterranean flavors in the heart of the city.

Casa Rincón de Gràcia

Carrer de Còrsega, 300 – Barcelona (Eixample District)

Open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Reservations:

+34 937 03 06 70

www.restaurantecasarincon.com

Picture by Keig studio