Quimet & Quimet | Barcelona - Find. Eat. Drink.

Barcelona, Spain

What

An off-the-beaten track fifth generation run tapas and vermouth bar.

Why

The montaditos (canape-like tapa) change constantly. The tapas are made with ingredient selected from the local markets. A favorite of many world class chefs like Jose Andres and Ferran Adria.

Quimet & Quimet | Barcelona

June 18, 2009

Quimet & Quimet is a postage-sized tapas and vermouth bar that is not on the Ramblas; nor is it located on a popular square, or a stone’s throw from most hotels. It is slightly off the beaten track, on a nondescript street, in a neighborhood close to Parc de Montjuic (where the Fundacio Joan Miro is located and much of the 1992 Olympics were held). It might be a little out of the way, but it is worth the trek.

The walls are lined with bottles of wine, vermouth, and canned seafood. Canning seafood in Spain is considered a high art, with some of the best delicacies from the local waters put in tins and sold at top prices. Mussels, octopus, tuna, squid, are just a few of the specialities laid out for display.

Fifth generation owner Quim Pérez improvises many of the montaditos on the spot, depending on what is in front of him. English is limited, but if you’re good at pointing, you’ll get to try everything. One of their signature dishes is toast topped with smoked salmon with yogurt and truffle honey - a gooier gourmet version of what you’d have a New York bagel. Others are anchovies with spicy piquillo peppers, and anchovies with sea urchin and tomato. There are also classics like croquettes, and a good selection of cheeses. There are a few stand-up tables, but most people crowd around the stainless steel bar, where the tapas are laid out.

What was once mostly with filled locals is now starting to show up on people’s “must hit” list for visitors, but with food this good, it’s deservedly so.

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