Barcelona’s Barris: Gracia Revisited
Over the last month or so, I’ve been rambling on about Barcelona’s barris and some of my favorite places to visit within them. One barri I’ve decided begs mentioning once more: Gracia. I’ve already ohh-ed and ahh-ed about Gracia’s adorable squares and Indy movie theater, and this week I want to add a couple more restaurants to the Gracia line up.
One of the reasons Gracia is so attractive is because of its dappled selection of dining options. Feel like some curry? Gracia. How about Japanese or Nepalese cuisine? Gracia and Gracia. Mexican? You guessed it, Gracia once more. This barri has a multicultural palate which attracts people from all over the city.
No. 1: Mexican – Cantina Machito
I’m a sucker for mole and anything with a picture of Frida Kalho on it, which means I feel right at home at Cantina Machito. Right around the corner from the always buzzing Verdi Street, this Mexican spot is usually full Thursday through Saturday nights. There’s inside seating near the bar resembling a Mexican saloon and patio seating on the inner-courtyard offering relief from July’s humid evenings. It’s decorated in cobalt blue, sunflower yellow and a rainbow of other bright colors which scream, ¡viva Mexico!
The food isn’t too bad either. While not authentic (I’ve yet to find an authentic taco restaurant in Barcelona), it’s tasty and almost passes as Mexican. Still, it’s missing something, which may be hot sauce or the right kind of black bean. The beer is an authentic import, Dos XX, as is the tequila with which they blend salty margaritas. For a bit of fun, up-beat Latin music and passable Mexican food, Cantina Machito is the place to go.
What: ‘Mexican Food’
Where: C/ Torrijos, 47 – Gracia
When: Evenings; dinner
Price: €20 and up for dinner