Chao Pescao Seafood Born — Restaurant in Barcelona

An Evening in Paradise - Thanks to Paul

There are moments in a restaurant critic's life that become unforgettable memories. My recent visit to Chao Pesco is undoubtedly one of them. After 10 years of testing and evaluating culinary masterpieces, it's rare for an evening to impress me as deeply as this one did.

From the moment I entered the restaurant, I was enchanted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. But it was Paul, the waiter, who made this evening truly memorable. With his natural charm and a presence that lit up the entire place, he created an ambiance of trust and comfort that made every dish even more delightful.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the exquisitely prepared sea bream. Cooked to perfection, the skin was crispy, and the flesh was tender and juicy—a true masterpiece. The fried baby fish was also a delight, crispy yet tender, showcasing the kitchen's skill.

Particularly noteworthy was the special fish with many eyes, which I had never tried before. Despite my initial skepticism, I trusted Paul's recommendation, and I was not disappointed. This mysterious fish was exquisitely prepared and opened up new dimensions of flavor.

Paul understood how to fulfill every one of our wishes, whether it was fresh bread, crisp onions, or another drop of beer. His attentive service left nothing to be desired and made us feel at the center of attention. Even as the beer left us slightly tipsy, Paul's charm remained unparalleled, adding an unforgettable lightness to the evening.

At a time when excellent service is often scarce, Paul set new standards. His friendliness, professionalism, and above all his charm are priceless and make Chao Pesco a place to which one wants to return again and again.

Paul, thank you for this unforgettable evening. You sweetened not only the food but also our hearts. See you...

Been here today 14.09.24. I give 1 star in rare occasions because I tend not to get into trap restaurants but this one unfortunately got me. So on the stall inside the restaurant there are all the fresh fish. And all was good until the lobster arrived. I ordered red shrimps which were delecious and cooked nice. And two oysters which were okayish/fresh-like (they were refererred that they arrived the same day). So I came here with the desire to eat fresh lobster. I was shown that the lobster was alive so I was expecting a really fresh dish naturally. I was informed it’s grilled the best and then the lobster arrived. For a person who ate real fresh lobster the meat was falling apart like its been boiled a few days ago. There was no sign of freshness when the meat is succulent and almost fibery but tender. Instead the lobster meat was falling apart like it’s been boiled for hours (even though I was informed it was ‘grilled’ and I waited around 10-15 minutes for it. I really don’t even want to think that I was fooled with an older lobster then I was introduced to in the beginning! That would be really sad for a person who wants to have a decent lunch and also for the staff who has to go through this kind of game! Again I was massively devastaded for this kind of experience. I’ve been fooled by higher comment...

Chao Pescao have a brilliant concept across 2 branches with more to open for sure. The fish are displayed on ice like a traditional fishmongers, and you have to choose before paying & sitting. Preparation is standardised, so the Tellini are grilled with a kind of Pesto sauce, the whitebait are battered and fried. The prices are standard PER KILO here, unlike the branch in town where boquerones fritos are the price displayed. So basically I had 2 ENORMOUS full portions at double the price I expected. Excellent of course, but way too much and way over budget. This branch has windows, is not so near public transport, you may prefer the branch in town at Passeig de Gracias but that has no windows at the back seating area. Each branch is a franchise so there is room for improvement in pricing here, but no way to put windows at the one in town. Both have truly FRESH fish at low prices, and the added genius of displaying all fish on ice. A dining experience to treasure. Well...