A lot of cities talk big about the variety and ethnic diversity of their cuisine. Bloggers babble about “cultural crossroads” and “melting pots,” but in reality most big cities can’t compete with the choices and quality offered in the typical central Barcelona neighborhood.
I know, fighting words. But there are unique forces at play in Barcelona. The whole “crossroads” thing is real in the city. “Local” means Catalan, but the food scene is heavily influenced by the distinct cuisines of other Spanish regions, as well as nearby France. Moroccan and Eastern European inspirations are also baked into the mix, like most of Spain. And Barcelona is a port city, and touristy port cities often host a cultural stew. (OK, sorry for the cooking metaphors.)
Many cities may offer similar ethnic diversity, but the restaurants are separated into different barrios spread across the city. There’s a “Chinatown” or a “Little Italy” or a Greek neighborhood, but little cross pollination. In Barcelona, every type of food can pop up in any neighborhood. Walk around and you never know what you’ll find around the corner. In the heart of the city, everything from “fusion” restaurants led by boundary-testing chefs to fast-food Korean joints are always a short stroll away.
