When it comes to dining, Barcelona is all about the bite-size bits, but if an overload of pintxos choice has left you with a case of tapa-ralysis, seek refuge in this two-part local haunt just off La Rambla.
In chic saloon surrounds sit Cañete Barra and Mantel, with the former offering painterly plates and vibey atmos, and the latter an intimate fine diner focusing on a Gallic menu. So which door will it be, dear?
Under the blue awning at tad trad Cañete Barra awaits a lean and lively Andaluz-styled counter where chefs fire up delicious Spanny morsels ranging from Basque txistorra fritters and moorish pincho moruno to Cordoban-style aubergines with honey and simple Catalan pan con tomate. If tapas won’t sate your grumbling tum, opt for mains like scrumptious salt-baked Palamós prawns, then team your choice with a top regional tintos. Perfección.
After something a spot more swish? Side-step to the red door homing Mantel, a mirror and taxidermy-lined bistro and ground zero for lovers seeking cosy sups and canoodles. Reprieve from yet more tapas arrives in the form of wild tuna tartare and succulent aged sirloin crowned with truffle and foie gras, or bite off a bit extra with sharable plus-size platters of char-grilled T-bone and rib racks. Cañete get any better?
Cañete Barra y Mantel, Carrer de la Unió, 17, La Raval, Barcelona. +34 932 70 34 58, barcanete.com
