Robata — Restaurant in Barcelona

Dining at Robata Barcelona is an experience that combines elegance, creativity, and consistent quality. Located in the heart of the Eixample district, Robata stands out in a city full of culinary innovation for its refined approach to Japanese-inspired cuisine. This is not a traditional sushi bar, nor is it a generic Asian fusion spot. Instead, Robata has carved out a unique space for itself, blending the ancient technique of robata grilling with contemporary sushi preparations and a distinctly European sense of presentation.

From the moment you step inside, the ambiance at Robata sets the tone. The design is minimalist yet warm, with soft lighting, wood and stone textures, and a clear focus on natural elements. The layout is both intimate and stylish, making it suitable for everything from a quiet dinner for two to a small celebratory gathering. One of the most engaging features of the restaurant is the open kitchen, where diners can watch the chefs skillfully prepare dishes over a charcoal robata grill. It adds a sensory depth to the experience, reinforcing the idea that every dish here is treated with care and precision.

The menu offers a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes that showcases both the raw and cooked sides of Japanese cuisine. The robata grill section includes a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. The miso black cod is a standout—delicate, flaky, and infused with deep umami flavor. The yakitori skewers, especially the wagyu beef and chicken options, are perfectly grilled and tender, with just the right amount of smokiness from the charcoal. These grilled items alone could serve as the foundation of a satisfying meal.

However, to visit Robata and not explore the sushi side of the menu would be a missed opportunity. The sushi here is fresh, well-balanced, and beautifully presented. The nigiri pieces are cut with precision, with rice that is seasoned just enough to enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Specialty rolls range from traditional favorites to more inventive creations. The spicy tuna roll, for example, is balanced in heat and texture, while the dragon roll manages to be rich and satisfying without feeling overly heavy. Every element, from the fish to the garnishes, feels deliberate and harmonious.

One of the pleasant surprises at Robata is its dessert menu. While many Japanese restaurants offer little beyond mochi or green tea ice cream, Robata invests in a more indulgent approach. The cheesecake and lemon pie are both excellent—crafted with care and plated beautifully. They reflect the restaurant’s commitment to delivering a complete, thoughtful meal from beginning to end.

The beverage list is another strength. There is a solid selection of wine, sake, and Japanese-inspired cocktails that complement the menu without stealing focus. Staff are well-trained and happy to offer pairing suggestions. Service overall is professional, friendly, and unobtrusive. Our server was attentive without being overbearing, and the pacing of the meal was ideal. Dishes arrived promptly but never rushed, and the staff was knowledgeable when we had questions about ingredients or recommendations.

As for the price point, Robata falls into the mid-to-high range. Expect to spend around €40 to €60 per person depending on your appetite and whether you choose drinks or dessert. While not inexpensive, the quality of the ingredients, the care in preparation, and the overall experience make it a strong value. This is not fast food sushi—Robata is a restaurant that invites you to slow down and enjoy the process of dining.

In summary, Robata Barcelona offers a modern, elegant interpretation of Japanese cuisine that respects traditional techniques while embracing creativity and innovation. With its serene setting, consistently high-quality dishes, and polished service, it is one of the best dining experiences in the city for those seeking refined, Japanese-inspired fare. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler exploring Barcelona’s food scene, Robata deserves a place at the top...

This was our second time dining at Robata. The first (for my wife’s birthday) we felt let down. That first visit we stuck to sushi and, overall, found it lacking: not very fresh, with very stringy cuts of fish. But we did remember enjoying the ambiance, and a small steak skewer.

Tonight we happened in again, as they had a table available and we were wandering. Hostess was super friendly. Due to our first experience we stayed away from the sushi, mostly. We ordered the mango salad (which was non-traditional, but quite delicious; it had a little bit of chicken and would probably make a good lunch by itself). Then the crispy duck, which was really outstanding. Some of the best duck I’ve had. We also ordered the robata steak, which was very good. We enjoyed all three dishes and it raised our opinion quite a bit. Unfortunately, we finished on a 7 piece nigiri lover’s plate (sushi).

Once again, the sushi was not very fresh, slightly dry to the touch (sushi should be fresh and moist when it hits your tongue!), a couple pieces had that slightly strong “fishy” or gamey taste and were a tough and chewy. Small cuts too, although neither of us was very enthusiastic about eating it.

We did inform our waiter. Instead of listening he tried to tell us their cuts of sushi were somehow better (?) because they were aged? I’ve never heard such nonsense.

We will probably go back, but definitely not for the sushi. The ambiance is great, the duck and steak yummy, and I’m sure there are a few other dishes worth trying. But if you truly love sushi, I’d urge you to go...

I'm just going to start out by saying this place is expensive. I'm coming from the US and this place would even be expensive in the US.

That said, you won't find better quality. Probably in Barcelona but definitely in Eixample.

First off, it's a very well run restaurant. If you make a reservation they have it and they'll seat you quickly. And you better have a reservation or else you're not getting a table even on a Sunday night or a Tuesday night. This place is just super busy. So makes me wonder how people have so much money when everyone says Spain is poor. Lol

The food quality is ridiculous. I've never had better sashimi. The fish is super fresh and especially the tuna cuts are amazing. Sometimes we come here once a week and I'm embarrassed to even say that. The rolls are really good as well but to be honest if you even just come here get this sashimi and you'll be fine.

In terms of the environment and staff, both are amazing. Staff is just really on point. Super nice and knowledgeable of the sushi rolls. The atmosphere is dark and welcoming and just a type of kind of cool place you'd want to take a group to. I have taken a group here several times. I live in the neighborhood and to be honest I don't think there's that much quality because everything is geared towards tourists but this place is an exception.

Come check it out and you won't be upset when you leave. Which is more than I can say for...