El Jardí

El Raval, Barcelona –

Tucked away in a quiet courtyard in the gardens of El Antic Hospital Santa Creu, El Jardí is undoubtedly one of Barcelona’s best “undiscovered” treasures.

In terms of décor, this al fresco terrace and tapas bar lets its idyllic environment speak for itself. Gothic stone walls loom on every side of the terrace and the trees reverberate with the trills of songbirds darting between branches, while the racket of Las Ramblas is nothing but a faint murmur in the distant background.

The savvy and sophisticated patrons generally gather on the terrace under the tropical plants and canopy umbrellas, contentedly absorbing the tranquil atmosphere with a cervesa or plate of gourmet tapas.

Later in the evening, when live performers or DJs take advantage of the medieval courtyard’s acoustics, the venue fills up with revelers, while an additional crowd lingers outside the bar to enjoy the festive vibe from the comfort of the public benches, steps, and walls of the cloister.

The mood at El Jardí is upbeat rather than raucous, and it’s a great place to warm up for a long Spanish evening.