I first wandered into Can Paixano by mistake. I was walking from Barceloneta to the Gothic Quarter when I was drawn by the buzz coming from the dark cafe. A small line was forming, even though it was still early in the afternoon.
I soon learned that Can Paixano is that rare spot beloved by both tourists and locals. It has the ambiance of an old hole-in-the-wall tavern, cramped with barrels, bottles and canned goods. There are no chairs; it’s standing room only. You cluster around an old counter display case stuffed with meats and cheeses, and sausages and meats hanging from the ceiling. Servers whip out a tasty menu of tapas and small sandwiches detailed on a plastic menu on the wall.
Cava is the main draw here. You can drink cava or water, that’s it. Don’t ask for a beer. They laughed when I asked for a Fanta. I tried the hot jamon y camembert sandwich, but the fresh grilled sausage and fresh cheeses were clearly hot items.
If you can get in, this is the ideal spot for that quick snack and a hit of cava to set up the afternoon. Buy a bottle of the house label for the road.
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I will definitely try this place next time I am in Barcelona! The jamón and camembert sounds like a winning option.
I’m looking forward to reading this after work.