Quimet y Quimet

Quimet y Quimet is located in a small liquor store in the Poble Sec barrio to the west of La Rambla. The tiny shop has no tables, and patrons order from the counter then jockey for spots at a few wine barrels or spill out into the street. For diners who can handle the less-than-formal accommodations, however, the reward is some of the best food in Barcelona. Owned by the Quim family for four generations, the shop is manned by Mr. Quim, who mixes drinks and creates memorable tapas on the spot. When I visited, we followed his expert recommendations rather than ordering from the menu. His creations included montaditos (Catalan mini-tapas, like a small open-faced sandwich) made with mussels, caviar and tomatoes and smoked salmon over fresh cheese topped with a drizzle of honey and aged balsamic.