Libertine Cocktail Bar at Casa Bonay — Restaurant in Barcelona

A Tourist Trap Disguised as a Chic Hangout

My visit to Libertine Bar was an experience that left much to be desired, revealing it as nothing short of a tourist trap. Upon arrival, the ambiance was peculiar, with people working in dim lighting on their laptops alongside tourists. It took an astonishing 30 minutes before we were even acknowledged, by which point we were on the verge of leaving.

Service began with two glasses of what we assumed was complimentary tap water, a gesture of hospitality one might expect. However, the real shock came with the cocktails we ordered, and more so with the bill. Each glass of "agua de coco" — a fancy name they've coined for plain tap water — was charged at €2.50, amounting to €5 for both. This was not only unsolicited but also blatantly deceptive, labeling tap water as something exotic and then charging for it.

Discovering such practices was disheartening for multiple reasons. Firstly, it's outright rude and disrespectful to serve something unrequested and then bill for it, especially when it's just tap water. Secondly, this approach to 'service' is deceitful, taking advantage of customers and bordering on scam territory. This lack of integrity and elegance shows a profound misunderstanding of hospitality and culinary business ethics.

The cocktails themselves were disappointingly diluted, but the real embarrassment was inviting a guest and witnessing this blatant overcharge for tap water — two glasses for €5. It's a shameful practice that reflects poorly on the establishment.

In conclusion, Libertine Bar is a classic example of a tourist trap that lacks the finesse and integrity one would expect from a reputable venue. The experience was a clear reminder of the importance of valuing customers and offering genuine service, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics for a quick profit. I hope the management realizes the disgracefulness of such practices and makes amends to better respect and serve...

Looks aren’t everything – and neither is a designer price tag.

Yes, the setting is undeniably chic – the kind of place that looks fantastic in photos and feels like a scene from a glossy magazine. But beyond the aesthetic? A culinary letdown wrapped in attitude.

I ordered the Caesar salad without chicken, and was told, quite seriously, “We put anchovies instead.” As if anchovies were an afterthought, not the foundational ingredient of a classic Caesar dressing. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. It’s not just a mistake—it’s culinary ignorance served with confidence.

The club sandwich? A misnomer. What arrived was toast with fillings. Not a sandwich, not a club, just… toast. For the price of a proper meal elsewhere.

In the end, it’s a place that values aesthetics over authenticity. If you’re here for the scene, the setting delivers. But if you care even slightly about what’s on the plate — or how you’re spoken to — save your appetite (and your money) for somewhere that knows the difference between style...

I had a great experience at Libertine Cocktail Bar at Casa Bonay. The food was excellent. I ordered a lamb and pasta dish, and although I cannot remember the exact name from the menu, it was absolutely delicious and full of flavor.

The staff were incredibly kind and attentive. I had requested my dish without cheese, but it initially came with some on top. When I let them know, they were very apologetic and immediately prepared a new dish without hesitation. While I waited, they even brought over some breadsticks, which was such a thoughtful gesture.

I also tried several cocktails at the bar, all of which were fantastic. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, taking the time to recommend drinks and local wines that matched my preferences, which I really appreciated as a visitor to Barcelona.

The atmosphere was amazing; relaxed yet lively, with great music and a stylish setting. Overall, Libertine is a wonderful spot for both food and drinks, and I would definitely come back on my next trip...