Shopping & Food in Barcelona: Hidden Gems & Local Finds

20 May 2026

A compilation of the food joints and retail stores that pleasantly shocked, surprised, and delighted me on my 3-day solo trip in 2025.

Many of these are located in the Poblenou neighbourhood, northeast of the city core, where I stayed. I've made note of the general district where I can.

Food

Desoriente | Asian Restaurant

Stop debating right now. Go to Desoriente. Their marinated broccoli blew me away, the cocktails oh-so-délicieux. The peanut butter noodles were a bit too salty, I thought, but it could be just right for those with heavier palettes.

This restaurant takes its Asian fusion seriously. Best to make a reservation because this place is usually packed.

2 locations (for now), Poblenou and Eixample
Funky, social atmosphere (of course, you can still go solo)
Great interior décor
MOUTH-WATERING food

*Bao*, noodles, and cocktails in Asian fusion cuisine.

Back to back Cafe d'Especialitat (Specialty Coffee)

A very highly-ranked espresso and light breakfast bar in Poblenou's downtown. Come here for the muy popular and elegantly presented avocado toast (which seems to be a big thing in Europe right now) while enjoying the breeze on the patio.

Matcha latte!
Low-key and relaxed
Perfect for solo travellers

avocado and egg toast with matcha latte — A very healthy dose of eggs and avocado.

SOCO Poblenou

Another one for Poblenou with a wide range of Spanish local and fusion cuisine, including huevos, patatas bravas, Sicilian pizza, steak, vino (wine), and more. Best served outside on the patio on a hot summer evening.

Great presentation
Menu of anything and everything
Lactose-intolerant folks be aware: high chance of dairy

potatoes, fish, pizza, and bread — Full table of Spanish fusion cuisine. You can tell we were hungry.

Internacional Restaurant Bar

Highly-rated Mexican restaurant with a great summer patio and amazing interior design. Come for the friendly service and proximity to the beach (Playa Mar Bella), literally across the street.

Quirky design
Fusion flavours

La Colmena

A long-standing pastry and confectionary takeout shop in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, near the Cathedral. You can find a dessert or cake in any style, design, size, and flavour.

Serving since 1849, ONLY in Barcelona (one location!)
Cute and sweet
High ratings
Some recipes from centuries ago

OAKBERRY AÇAÍ

An international chain of açaí cups and health bowls that make for a refreshing, sweet, yet tangy meal on the days when you just need to grab and go.

Gentle on the stomach
Customizable
Presence in more than 35 countries, originating from Brazil

bananas, cocoa, granola, and strawberries in a cup — An açaí cup is the perfect pick-me-up when you're feeling tired or down, with the additional health benefits.

Torrons Vicens

An international chain of gourmet chocolates (specializing in turróns, traditional Mediterranean nougats, popular during Christmastime in Spain and Italy), with a location right next to the Sagrada Familia.

Come here if you want to see a sculpture of the basilica without the construction and people (lol!).

Free samples
Nutty flavours

The best view of the basilica is right here!

Shopping

Atelier de Ballerinas

Every pretty footwear fan’s absolute dream. They have literal rows and rows of just ballerina flats from floor to ceiling, wrapping around every inch of the store.