In One Bite:
A lively, modern tapas bar with a relaxed vibe, serving a selection of top quality dishes. Founded and operated by Francesc Beltri and Nicolás de la Vega, the same duo behind nearby Michelin-starred restaurant Slow & Low.
Standout Features
The Expertise: Bar Canyí does not have an extensive menu, and that’s a good sign. There are enough options to suit most tastes of course, but the limited choices, written on a blackboard and divided in sections such as ‘fried’, ‘grilled’ or ‘cold’, are guaranteed to be made from fresh ingredients and prepared by a highly skilled team.
The Vibe: Most seats are at the counter facing the chefs, in keeping with the tapas bar style, but there’s also an outdoor seating area. Both are equally relaxed and conducive to a convivial atmosphere where conversations can flow comfortably and plates can be shared easily. The cherry on top? Chef Beltri’s penchant for music which makes him double up as unofficial DJ, rotating vinyls each night according to the mood and season.
The Value: Premium ingredients and top skill can come at a hefty price, but Bar Canyí’s menu is accessible and fair when it comes to pricing. It may not provide the extra attentive service or amplified politeness that is inherent to fine dining, but as a tapas bar it does not have to meet such demands. The staff are perfectly knowledgable and the eatery’s frequenters actually favour a place that leans towards a more relaxed attitude where they can still enjoy delicious food as they catch up with old friends or mingle with new ones.
Star Dishes
(Subject to change)
The Calamar a la plancha, or grilled squid, stands out for its freshness and tenderness. Splashed with a simple green sauce, it delivers maximum flavour with minimal intervention. It’s seemingly effortless, but actually clear proof of the chef’s great dexterity. A definite highlight.
The Bomba de la Barceloneta is somewhat of a star in the Catalonian capital and many regulars consider the one at Bar Canyí to be the best in the city. It’s usually a simple potato ball that encloses seasoned minced meat, but this version combines tradition with a high-end execution, so it’s satisfying on every level.
The Berberechos ‘Salsa Jerez’, or cockles with sherry sauce, are rapidly seared on the grill and finished with a drizzle of Jerez, which adds depth without overpowering their fresh flavour. Plump, slightly sweet and very enjoyable.
Final Morsel: should you visit?
Bar Canyí is the ideal destination for foodies who want to enjoy tapas in Barcelona but don’t want to take any risks when it comes to the quality of ingredients or the culinary techniques used to prepare them. Although relatively new, this cool restaurant has already garnered the appreciation and loyalty of local customers and the keen interest of international visitors. Modern with a nod to retro vibes, the place exudes a strong passion for food and that is exciting in itself, but it’s also followed through with a perfectly executed menu.
Photo Credit: Mersa Auda
Bar Canyí is in Sant Antoni, Barcelona, Spain (Carrer de Sepúlveda, 107, L’Eixample, 08015).
— Mersa Auda
