Paleo in Barcelona

If you love food, then you will love Barcelona. Food is everywhere and it is of good quality and affordable. During my visit I was curious to try the various meats, since it was my first time in Spain since I got off the vegetarian train a little over a year ago. There are 2 things I'd like to highlight that are, in my opinion, a must.

La Boqueria

Genious: chorizo on a stick

This is a true feast for the senses, in every way possible. Also nicknamed the "belly of Barcelona" this market sells any fruit, fish, vegetable, meat, cheese, etc. you can imagine. Stalls are packed to the rim with products and
things I'd never seen before. If you are looking for something special, La Boqueria will have it.
The perimeter is mostly devoted to fruits and vegetables, the inner circle carries fresh and salted fish, meats and such. Make sure you get some ham at La Masia de la Boqueria (stall 971 in the back) It's pricey, but worth it! If you enter from La Rambla, don't buy straight at the first few stalls (they are more expensive) but work your way through a bit more.

Dried peppers

Note: Unfortunately, Spain is one of the few countries in Europe left to allow cage-eggs. You can check the code printed on the egg: 3 means cage-egg, 2 & 1 mean some type of free-range and code 0 is organic.



Grab a glass of cava and some tapas when you get hungry, for less than 10 euro you can have a nice meal.
Locals will shop here, as will restaurant chefs from all over Barcelona, but you certainly won't be the only tourist there either. For the Paleo travelers, there are plenty of options here.



Tapas

When you are in Spain, you have tapas. Period. Tapas are originally appetizers, although many restaurants these days evolve around them completely.
The options are broad, and can be simple like olives and cheese, to fish, salads and more elaborate dishes. You order a few at a time, and you can always order more as you go.
Not all tapas are Paleo, but it is definitely a perfect way to create your own meal with grilled veggies, several meats and fish and salad. We visited a few restaurants during our stay that we really enjoyed:


Bar del Pla
Busy place, so either come early (like 7pm) or make a reservation. It's very common to eat late, so don't be surprised restaurants are still busy at midnight.

Taller de Tapas
Few locations in the city, we went to the one in Plaza Sant Josep. Great food, nice staff. Also get there early or make reservations. Order the chorizo in vinegar.

Freixa Tradicio
More upscale restaurant with traditional Catalan cuisine in a modern style. Amazing food, fantastic service.
Make sure you order the coulant de chocolate Guanaja for dessert.

Again, not all food is Paleo, but the offering of foods in Barcelona has such a variety, you will not have to worry about staying on track.

Chorizo in vinegar