Ambar Bar

El Raval, Barcelona –

With its retro lamps, threadbare sofas, and empty picture frames, Ambar feels a bit like hanging out in a friend’s basement, surrounded by their family’s unwanted stuff.

Although the owners didn’t go all out on the furnishings, what they do have is artfully placed, and the shiny red-topped bar, metallic stools, and floor-to-ceiling windows save Ambar from crossing the line into dive bar territory.

In fact, most of the cool artists and entrepreneurs show up in the latest street fashions to spend a few hours discussing their recent projects over smokes and cervesa. Later in the evening, a smattering of in-the-know expats swell in number to create a lively pre-club vibe.

The staff selects a mix of eclectic tunes conducive to conversation, while outdoor seating attracts passersby keen on observing the goings-on in Rambla de Raval.