Els Pescadors

In summer, Els Pescadors’ outdoor tables spill out onto a peaceful plaza in such an out-of-the-way corner of the city that you almost forget you’re in Barcelona. Just a few blocks from the ocean, with white tablecloths, attentive service and nary a car to be heard, the restaurant feels more like an elegant eatery in a seaside village. The ultra-fresh fish, some of the very best in the city, only serves to confirm that impression. Traditional Catalan and other Spanish dishes are what Els Pescadors does best. Start with green gazpacho or some grilled razor clams or shrimp. The main course rice dishes, prepared with lobster, mushrooms or meat, are also excellent. An even better option, though, is to let your server suggest which large fish to order for your party, and have them bake it whole in a layer of coarse sea salt. The presentation is lovely, and the succulent fish is packed with flavor. Once you try the whole fish baked in sea salt at Els Pescadors, you’ll understand why it’s the favored way to prepare fish in this part of the world.