la modesta — Restaurant in Barcelona

It was our last night in Barcelona and we were torn between going to see FC Barcelona play or trying this highly rated Peruvian restaurant called La Modesta we’d read about. We’re so glad we didn’t go and watch the match, because this turned out to be the best meal and dining experience we’ve ever had!

We booked over WhatsApp and this initial interaction was easy and really pleasant.

Daniel is an incredible chef and his passion for good food and feeding people is infectious. La Modesta is a very small restaurant but it has so much charm and really makes for a fantastically intimate experience where Peruvian food is the hero alongside fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

We decided to go for the 7 course menu and, in fairness, would’ve been well fed with just the 5 course, but we didn’t want to miss out on any of Daniel food. He also makes a mean cocktail! How someone could leave a review that they needed a McDonalds after eating here is insane - an absolute insult!

If you want a memorable experience and food that has you licking the plate (or drinking the sauce!), you absolutely must...

I'm from NY and consider myself a foodie, so I am used to great food and I'm a pretty harsh critic. This was one of the top 10 meals I've ever had. It's a 5 course tasting menu. The chef asks for any dietary restrictions and your spice level preference. They the amazing food starts. I can't even say what every dish was but the flavors were fabulous. Rich, complex, familiar yet unique, and just delightful. Every bite was a joy.

The restaurant is tiny. Seating for 12 at the most, so you may have to wait, but there are plenty of fun bars to have a drink while you anticipate your meal.

The kitchen is in the dining area, so you can see the chef's masterful work close up. He carefully inspected every piece of fish, every vegetable, every plate before it was served.

50 euro each plus drinks. The cava sangria was more like a daiquiri and the best I've had in Spain.

This is not to be missed. Leave the heavily trafficked tourist area and walk down this charming street to a true culinary delight. You will only regret having not dined...

La Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou and… La Modesta!

If you would ask me what the top 3 of things to do in Barcelona is, I would definitely recommend La Modesta! You don’t go to have dinner, you go for an experience, a great experience. First of all you are welcomed by Dani and his crew in an amazing way. It feels like you are invited at his home. Second to that, the food is delicious! With his tasting menu, Dani offers you a trip around the world of flavors, textures and combinations. Personal favorites? The ceviche and the ‘ternera’ meat. (Oh and don’t forget to have a Pisco Sour ;-) ) Last but not least, the coziness of the place is great and you have direct contact with Dani, while you see him preparing his small treasures on a plate. So yes go to La Sagrada and Camp Nou. But definitely go...