Fonda Can Portell — Restaurant in Barcelona

Truly unbelievable experience. We were looking for a nice place to eat a good meal during the San Juan celebration in Barcelona, and were told to go to another restaurant that was closed when we arrived. We walked several blocks to an area with probably 10 other restaurants to pick from. We settled on Fonda Can Portell and, in one word, AMAZING!!!! The shrimp croquettes were out of this world. The octopus? Best we ever had. For the main course, we had a plate of beef that we cooked ourselves on a cast iron plate just out of the oven. It took us three hot plates to cook all of the most tender beef we ever had. For desert, the best Crema Catalana EVER!!!!! (See photo) The chef came out a few times. In fact, he hand delivered each hot plate himself. Our waiter was very personable and attentive, and was a blues guitarist. We talked about music, guitars, etc. In a nutshell, it truly made for a memorable experience … one we won’t soon forget. If you’re in Barcelona, this place is worth it. 100%. We will definitely be back, and wish them the best of luck. Thanks you for a magnificent meal. Here’s to new...

We weren’t that hungry, and wandered here because we were a little hungry and had just gotten off the train - Barcelona Sant station. This restaurant was buried in a row of restaurants but it stood out as nicer. The servers welcomed us in, and made great suggestions for wine and food. There was a gorgeous whole fish (turbot) which was available that day. One of the servers brought it by to see before and after preparation. It was gorgeous and would have been fantastic if we were hungrier. Instead, we ordered a salad with goat cheese and a plate of pasta bolognese. Both were incredibly good and beautifully served. The goat cheese on the salad was wonderful — the flavor of goat cheese but not overbearing as goat cheese can sometimes be in the US. The pasta was also wonderful, served hot in a cast iron pan. We tried two desserts as well. Both were good, but the one made with a pastry from a local bakery was especially nice. The other was a very nice apple pie filling. Friendly servers and nice portions. A great place to have lunch! We would return here the next time we take the train...

I’ve been coming to this restaurant since I was two years old, and it still feels like home every time I walk through the door. Over the years, it has become more than just a place to eat — it’s a part of my story.

Their Catalan traditional food is simply unmatched. Every dish is prepared with care and authenticity, honoring the roots of the region’s cuisine. The meat is always tender and full of flavor, cooked just right — whether it’s grilled, stewed, or roasted. But what truly keeps me coming back time and time again are the cargols (snails). They are hands-down the best I’ve ever had: perfectly seasoned, slightly smoky, and cooked to perfection.

The warmth of the staff and the consistency of the food make this place truly special. No matter how many years pass, the quality never changes — and neither does that comforting feeling of tradition and home.

If you’re looking to experience the heart of Catalan cuisine, this...