Are you looking for some good seafood restaurants nearby? In Barcelona, the best seafood places are found along the shores of Barceloneta and in the historic Gothic Quarter. These neighborhoods, known for their mix of traditional marisquerías (seafood restaurants) and stylish modern locations, offer everything from classic Catalan dishes to innovative seafood creations. Barceloneta is famous for bringing in fresh catches daily from the Mediterranean, while the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets lead to cozy restaurants serving creative seafood tapas.
Barcelona’s seafood dining is all about simplicity and seasonality. Expect platters of gambas, fresh oysters, and Catalan specialties like suquet de peix (a traditional fish stew), all paired with crisp local wines or cava. Barcelona seafood is the perfect mix of traditional and modern Mediterranean flavors.
Be sure to get some lunch before locals go on siesta as the time from 15 to 20 o’clock is long when hungry. You don’t want to waste your time on random tourist food (These are the ones that stay open), when there are so many good places. Here’s our list of Barcelona’s best restaurants for fresh, sustainable seafood worth spending time on.
Best Barcelona Seafood Choices for Fresh, Eco-Friendly Dining
Disfrutar – Top Choice
- Address: Carrer de Villarroel, 163, Eixample, Barcelona
- Website: disfrutarbarcelona.com
This restaurant is the top choice, but it is quite difficult to get a reservation due to the hype and limited seats. Disfrutar in Eixample, has been a must-visit for food lovers since its opening in 2014. Founded by former El Bulli chefs Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch, and Mateu Casañas, this Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its boundary-pushing approach to Spanish cuisine. Disfrutar is all about creativity, and every dish is a work of art that fuses bold flavors with unexpected textures, making each bite a surprise. Do not expect casual dining with friends, this is “Michelin theater”.
While sustainability isn’t their main focus, the chefs are dedicated to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients whenever possible, ensuring every dish is fresh and vibrant. Highlights on the tasting menu include unique creations like the multi-spherical pesto with smoked eel or the playful panchino stuffed with caviar and sour cream. Expect an unforgettable, multi-course meal, with tasting menus ranging from €185 to €250.
The restaurant’s modern, Mediterranean-inspired design with an open kitchen adds to the experience, allowing diners to watch the chefs in action. Guests often describe the ambiance as elegant yet relaxed, with many calling it an “unparalleled culinary journey.” Due to its popularity and the hype, reservations are essential, and they are hard to get.
Hours: Monday to Friday: Lunch 13:00 – 14:30; Dinner 20:00 – 21:30
Botafumeiro
- Address: Carrer de Gran de Gràcia, 81, Gràcia, Barcelona
- Website: botafumeiro.es
Botafumeiro has been a beloved seafood destination in Gràcia since 1975. This grand restaurant prides itself on its top-quality seafood, sourced daily from the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, with a focus on freshness and sustainability.
On the menu, you’ll find specialties like grilled Galician octopus, lobster paella, and a signature shellfish platter brimming with oysters, clams, and langoustines. With main dishes around €30-€50, Botafumeiro is a high-end choice that delivers on quality and ambiance. The interior is elegant yet warm, and you’ll find a diverse crowd of locals and visitors. Reviews frequently mention the “exceptional service” and “impeccably fresh seafood.”
Operating Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 00:00
La Paradeta
- Address: Multiple locations, including Carrer Comercial, El Born, Barcelona
- Website: laparadeta.com
La Paradeta is a casual seafood market-restaurant where you pick your own seafood from the display counter and have it cooked to order. Founded in 1994, this spot has grown into a local favorite, attracting a mix of tourists and locals looking for fresh seafood without the fuss.
Popular choices include gambas a la plancha (grilled prawns), clams, and fried calamari. The pricing is by weight, so you can sample a variety of seafood within a budget, typically ranging from €15-€30 per person.
Operating Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 23:00
Cal Pep
- Address: Plaça de les Olles, 8, El Born, Barcelona
- Website: calpep.com
Cal Pep is an iconic tapas bar in El Born, where locals and visitors alike line up to enjoy fresh seafood and creative small plates. Opened in the 1980s by chef Pep Manubens, Cal Pep is known for its constantly changing menu based on seasonal ingredients and daily catches.
Menu highlights include clams with ham, grilled cuttlefish, and the famous seafood omelet. Dishes are priced between €10-€20, making it a great spot to sample a variety of tapas. The open kitchen and lively, bustling atmosphere make dining here interactive. Locals note “authentic flavors” and “friendly, fast-paced service.”
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 13:00 to 15:30, 19:30 to 23:30
Els Pescadors
- Address: Plaça Prim, 1, Poblenou, Barcelona
- Website: elspescadors.com
In the quiet neighborhood of Poblenou, Els Pescadors offers an authentic taste of Catalan seafood cuisine in a relaxed setting. Since the 1980s, this restaurant has focused on sustainable, local ingredients, including fresh seafood from the nearby Mediterranean.
Specialties include suquet de peix (Catalan fish stew) and grilled sardines, with main courses ranging from €20-€35. The rustic decor and relaxed atmosphere attract families and locals, making it a hidden gem for those seeking traditional Catalan flavors. Reviews often mention the “charming, intimate setting” and “high-quality, authentic dishes.”
Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 16:00, 20:00 to 23:30
La Mar Salada
- Address: Passeig de Joan de Borbó, 58-59, Barceloneta, Barcelona
- Website: lamarsalada.cat
Located along the lively seafront in Barceloneta, La Mar Salada combines traditional Catalan seafood dishes with a modern twist. Opened by chef Ferran Adrià’s family, this restaurant places a strong emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients.
Standout dishes include the arroz caldoso (soupy rice with seafood) and red prawns from Palamós, with main courses typically priced from €20-€35. The ambiance is bright and airy, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the view. Guests often comment on the “fresh, innovative flavors” and the “friendly, laid-back vibe.”
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 13:00 to 16:00, 20:00 to 23:30
Can Majó
- Address: Carrer de l’Almirall Aixada, 23, Barceloneta, Barcelona
- Website: canmajo.es
Since 1968, Can Majó has been a go-to for seafood lovers in Barceloneta. With its casual, family-run vibe, this restaurant serves classic seafood dishes with a focus on quality. It’s a popular spot for paella and fideuà (noodle paella), with seafood platters featuring fresh mussels, clams, and shrimp.
Dishes are priced around €20-€35, making it affordable for the quality and portion sizes. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, attracting both locals and travelers. Regulars appreciate the “generous portions” and the “authentic, home-style cooking.”
Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 23:00
El Nacional – La Llotja
- Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 24 Bis, Eixample, Barcelona
- Website: elnacionalbcn.com
El Nacional is a trendy multi-concept dining space in Eixample, and La Llotja is its seafood-focused area, offering fresh, high-quality catches in a stylish setting. This upscale venue attracts a mix of locals and visitors looking to try a variety of Spanish seafood specialties in one place.
Try the grilled octopus, razor clams, or seafood paella, with main dishes ranging from €20-€40. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, perfect for a night out with friends or a date. Guests rave about the “vibrant atmosphere” and “excellent variety of seafood dishes.”
Operating Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 01:00
Pez Vela
- Address: Passeig del Mare Nostrum, 19-21, Barceloneta, Barcelona
- Website: grupotragaluz.com/pez-vela
Located right on the beach, Pez Vela is a trendy chiringuito (beach bar) offering stunning sea views and simple yet flavorful seafood. With a relaxed, beachy vibe, this spot is popular among locals, tourists, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea.
The menu features seafood classics like grilled fish, octopus, and their signature paella. Dishes range from €15-€30, making it an affordable and scenic option. Visitors often praise the “unbeatable location” and “fresh, coastal flavors,” making Pez Vela a beachside favorite.
Operating Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 23:30
Casa Delfín
- Address: Passeig del Born, 36, El Born, Barcelona
- Website: casadelfinrestaurant.com
Casa Delfín has been serving Catalan classics in the heart of El Born since 1908. Known for its charming, old-world decor and traditional menu, this spot attracts locals and tourists alike. Casa Delfín sources ingredients locally and focuses on timeless Catalan recipes.
Highlights include caldereta de langosta (lobster stew) and grilled cuttlefish, with prices around €20-€35 for mains. The cozy interior and historical charm make it perfect for a quiet, authentic meal. Guests appreciate the “historic ambiance” and “well-prepared classic dishes.”
Operating Hours: Daily: 13:00 to 23:30
Rías de Galicia
- Address: Carrer de Lleida, 7, Sants-Montjuïc, Barcelona
- Website: riasdegalicia.com
Rías de Galicia in Sants-Montjuïc is unsurprisingly dedicated to the flavors of Galicia. Established in 1986, it’s known for its premium seafood, including percebes (goose barnacles) and Galician octopus. This restaurant is a favorite among seafood fans and locals celebrating special occasions.
The elegant, minimalist decor complements the sophisticated dishes, with main courses ranging from €30-€60. Guests often highlight the “high-quality ingredients” and “impeccable service,” making it a top choice for a refined seafood time.
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 13:00 to 15:30, 20:30 to 23:00
Must-Try Barcelona Seafood Dishes
At the restaurants on our list, you’ll find a variety of local seafood classics that highlight the best of Catalan cuisine. Here are a few to look out for:
Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus)
Originally from Galicia, this dish has become popular in Barcelona as well. Tender octopus is served with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. The pulpo at Botafumeiro is a favorite, perfectly tender with a smoky, savory flavor that pairs well with a glass of crisp white wine.
Suquet de Peix
This traditional Catalan fish stew is a must-try for anyone visiting Barcelona. Made with a flavorful broth of tomatoes, garlic, and saffron, suquet de peix is typically loaded with local fish, shellfish, and potatoes. Els Pescadors is known for its comforting, authentic version of this dish, bringing you a taste of classic Catalan home cooking.
Arroz Caldoso
Arroz caldoso is a soupy rice dish that’s often made with a variety of seafood, such as clams, shrimp, and langoustines. Similar to paella but with more broth, this dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. You’ll find a fantastic version at La Mar Salada, with fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Fideuà
Often referred to as “noodle paella,” fideuà is a Catalan dish made with short noodles instead of rice and typically served with seafood. Cooked in a large, shallow pan, it’s topped with prawns, cuttlefish, and clams. Can Majó serves an authentic fideuà that’s a local favorite, complete with a dollop of garlicky allioli for extra flavor.
Gambas a la Plancha
Grilled Mediterranean prawns, or gambas a la plancha, are a simple but flavorful dish you’ll see in many Barcelona seafood spots. The prawns are cooked whole on a hot grill, with just a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon. Look for these at La Paradeta, where you can pick out your own prawns from the seafood counter.
Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know at hello@localsinsider.com
Sources and Disclaimer: Our Barcelona Seafood restaurant listing is based on research, local customer reviews, top travel bloggers, magazine evaluations, and our preferences. Prices and menus may change, so please check official sites for the latest information.
Sources: TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, restaurant websites, personal visits.
