Can Boneta

Here's yet another traditional Catalan restaurant that really should be protected under by UNESCO as a local heritage site. Every once in a while a crafty tourist or two sneaks in to Can Boneta when wandering too far off the Rambla route, thinking this can't be for real. But rest assured, you're not dreaming when you find this cuisine treated by the loving care of family and assisted into existence by modern technology. For around €12, you can start off with sort of sampler plate with three gorgeous items. For example: a glass of thick 'salmorejo' (similar to gazpacho), with just the right touch of vinegar, a tomato salad (made with garden-fresh tomatoes!) with olive paste and olive oil that's like liquid gold, and toast with brie and 'sobrasada' spread. For your main dish you can choose pasta with bacon and mushrooms or cod with ratatouille – always an excellent Catalan dish. The house that Joan Boneta built – himself an architect-turned-cook – surprises with its highly imaginative treatment of Catalan tapas and small dishes, where you won't find typical croquettes or clichés. At lunchtime you'll find a stunning set menu.