Taller de Tapas

L'Eixample, Barcelona –

Anyone roaming the Las Ramblas thoroughfare hoping to find a non-touristy destination is on a fool’s journey, but those looking for an easy way to avail themselves of Spain’s signature dining experience will benefit from Taller de Tapas.

One of five branches in Barcelona, the L’Eixample location offers several shaded tables beneath trees on the street – the site where Scarlett Johansson and Woody Allen dined during the filming of Vicky Christina Barcelona – while the modern interior provides an elegant but still informal spot to grab a bite during the day.

To be sure, the place is far from a gritty authentic haunt, but its multi-lingual food menus and large chalkboards listing the ample selection of cava, champagne, and wine on offer make it a comfortable hangout for the less seasoned tapador.

(That’s not really a word.)

The high-ceilinged room features clean white walls, modern cylindrical light fixtures, and a large center bar accessible from all sides, while the open kitchen churns out a host of seasonally influenced Spanish favorites like lobster paella, cod fritters, and cured ham.

Two private dining rooms are a favorite for birthday groups and business meetings, while a balcony space overlooks the consistently busy main area, and can also be booked for intimate gatherings.

Taller de Tapas’ name translates to “tapas workshop,” which makes sense seeing as this fashionable and friendly place is perfect for people working and shopping in Las Ramblas.