Barcelona is bursting with flavor. You’ve got institutions like La Boqueria, but see another side of its food scene by diving into the food halls and street food-style markets.
Brimming with fresh seafood, gourmet bourgers, and more, every type of foodie is bound to be satisfied. If you’re hunting for timeless tapas, Michelin-star tacos, or world-class drinks, these places are where locals and travelers alike come together to eat, drink, and explore.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Time Out Market
- When: daily, all-year-long
- Where: Ciutat Vella
- Entry: free
First on the list is the city’s newest gastronomic hotspot, Time Out Market Barcelona. It adds to the brand’s global portfolio, which already includes major cities like Lisbon, Dubai, and New York. This latest opening offers the same winning formula: great food, cocktails, and events, all meticulously curated by the experts behind Time Out’s renowned recommendations.
Located on the upper floor of the Maremagnum shopping centre at Port Vell, the space boasts close to 20 establishments – from kitchens, to cocktails bars, a patisserie and a full-service restaurant. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood from a hundred-year-old establishment like Can Ros, or one-of-a-kind cocktails at Paradiso (voted one of the top 10 among the World’s Best), this place has you covered.
Entertainment is also included with regular live performances, promising a blend of local culture alongside the stellar cuisine. Open from 10am to midnight (with Paradiso staying open until 1am), it’s a spot to soak in the best of Barcelona’s food and culture scene, all in one place.
All Those
- When: select weekends, twice a year
- Where: Forùm (Fall 2024 Edition)
- Entry: approx. 5€
All Those is a go-to for those seeking a mix of artisanal products, street food, and local flair. This event pops up only twice a year and in different locations, often taking over iconic spots like the Moll de la Fusta in Barcelona’s Villa Olimpica, or gardens like the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya. What makes All Those special is its focus on small-scale, independent producers who are passionate about their craft, whether that’s homemade jams or organic wines.
And it’s more than just food. You can browse stalls and munch on the city’s best cheesecake, while listening to live music. The market takes sustainability seriously, with many vendors emphasizing locally-sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.
There’s also plenty of hands-on fun with workshops ranging for urban gardening to making your own kombucha. And yes, All Those is family-friendly, so you can bring the little ones along for some wholesome weekend fun.
El Nacional
- When: daily, all-year-long
- Where: L’Eixample
- Entry: free
El Nacional is one of Barcelona’s most iconic dining spots tucked inside a beautifully restored 19th-century building on the central Passeig de Gràcia. As soon as you step inside, you’re hit with the grandeur of its decor—high ceilings, elegant arches, and an atmosphere that makes it feel like you’ve entered a bustling, somewhat elevated, European food hall.
What sets it apart is that this restaurant is home to four dining spaces and four bars, each offering something distinct. And it was the first to do so in the Catalan capital.
For fish and seafood lovers, La Llotja is where you’ll want to park yourself. But if you’re after traditional Spanish meats, La Braseria has you covered with juicy steaks and hearty plates. Note that these two areas are the only ones that accept reservations within the entire restaurant. If you’re caught in the queue, you can always wait it out with a glass of cava or vermouth.
El Nacional takes pride in showcasing the best of Spain with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from throughout the countrty. And it’s not just the food—each of the four bars specializes in something unique, from signature cocktails to an impressive selection of Spanish wines.
Okio
- When: daily, all-year-long
- Where: El Born
- Entry: free
Tucked away in El Born, Okio Asian Street Market brings another burst of color, flavors, and energy to the neighbourhood. This lesser-known gem is designed to give you a feel of a bustling Asian night market, with neon lights, colorful murals, and strong aromas. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a lively vibe that perfectly captures the culture of Japan, Thailand, and other Asian hotspots.
Okio is all about celebrating street food, offering a variety of dishes that are fresh, authentic, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for baos, pad thai, or a dish with even more spice like a stir-fry or some spicy sushi, there’s something for every curious palate.
The ambiance is just as much a draw, with its trendy, neon-soaked aesthetic. It’s the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a fun date night, where the food and vibe transport you to the alleys of Asia without needing to board a transatlantic flight.
Palo Alto Market
- When: every first weekend of the month
- Where: Poblenou
- Entry: 5,50€
Palo Market Fest is a monthly event that captures the creative energy of Barcelona. Held in the artsy -formerly industrial- Poblenou district, it transforms the historic Palo Alto Factory into a lively hub of local talent, craftsmanship, and tasty bites.
The gathering brings together independent designers, artisans, and chefs, offering visitors a chance to explore handmade goods, vintage clothing, and eco-friendly products. Of course, the experience isn’t complete without the gourmet food trucks parked on-site.
They’re scattered throughout the market, serving up a wide range of flavors from juicy burgers to vegan dishes, all made with sustainably-sourced ingredients. You’ll also find artisanal snacks and homemade pastries, adding to the festival’s culinary appeal. If it isn’t a beer someone’s holding, you’ll most likely be seeing an aperol spritz in most festival goers’ hands.
Palo Alto is a perfect weekend hangout spot for anyone looking to tap into Barcelona’s artistic pulse while enjoying great food and music.
These food halls and markets offer an incredible way to experience the city’s rich culinary culture, from the traditional to the more eclectic, modern offerings at Palo Market Fest and El Nacional. Ready to explore the city’s best eats?
Book your tour with us today and discover these spots like a local, while gliding through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
