Top 5 drinks you should try visiting Barcelona
With 4 non-alcoholic extras
Barcelona is not just a treat for the eyes; it is also a city that knows how to keep your taste entertained. From refreshing classics for the summer to the most comforting drinks on cold nights, there are options here for every moment and mood.
And yes, we know that Catalonia's wines, cavas and vermouths are a must, but they already have their own standing in other posts. Today we will introduce you to other gems (and some non-alcoholic surprises) that you can't miss. Here we go!
1. Ratafia
Welcome to the most traditional liquor of Catalonia, a liquor that used to be made at home with herbs, green nuts and a lot of love. It was usually made by women and, although the tradition of ratafia is being lost (like so many other valuable things), you can still find quality homemade ratafia in some corners.
Originally, it was drunk in inland and mountain villages, where herbs and nuts were mostly available, and was used as a digestive, even with therapeutic properties. Today it is still ideal after eating, although it is also starting to stand out as a festive drink (like Jägermeister), either alone or with ice.
Of course, ratafia is still a symbol of our culture and the Catalan essence, so it must be honored as it deserves and enjoyed in small sips.
Local Tip: In Montserrat, the monks make their own ratafia, along with other liqueurs. If you come on a tour with us to Montserrat, you can try it during your free time. And even better if you accompany it with a good piece of coca de Montserrat, a pleasure that is as authentic as it is unique!
2. Ron Cremat
This drink has a show included. Imagine rum, sugar, lemon peel, coffee beans and cinnamon... all flambéed in a clay pot while they sing habaneras to you. The result is a warm and magical drink that tastes tradition.
Originally, Ron Cremat was created at the parties of fishermen and sailors, who gathered to warm themselves while singing habaneras, those nostalgic and seafaring melodies that transport you to the Caribbean from the Costa Brava.
It is not easy to find it all year round, since it is usually prepared in the summer, at habanera concerts or town festivals. But if you are lucky enough to see a flaming concoction at a neighborhood party, do not hesitate: it is Ron Cremat!
Local Tip: Do not try to make it at home without practice, unless you want to turn your kitchen into a battlefield. Better enjoy it at a habanera singing party on the Costa Brava, with the waves in the background.
3. Sangria
Yes, it is the classic that everyone expects, known by everyone. The mix of red wine, fresh fruit and soda to which some kind of spice and liquor is also usually added.
Locals drink it mainly in the summer and not just anywhere. If it's prepared well, it's a pleasure and a source of pride for the country. But be careful, because every bar has its own recipe, and not all of them are good. In Barcelona city, especially in Las Ramblas, they can serve it with wine of dubious quality, lots of sugar, little or no fruit and too much alcohol. If you don't trust the place, tinto de verano (red wine with soda) is a safer and less risky bet.
Now, if you're craving sangria (I understand, how can you leave without trying it?) and you're not sure where to go, there are safe options where you'll be sure to get it right, like Casa Lolea, a restaurant specializing in quality sangria.
Local Tip: Before ordering, take a look at the tables next to you. If they serve it in a glass with ice and a slice of lemon, like a Coca Cola, run away. A good sangria should be well-macerated in a jar so that the flavors can blend together, and if it isn't, chances are the rest of the meal isn't worth the effort either. More red flags? If the fruit looks like mush, is overripe, has pieces that are too small, or has a fluorescent color, you better run. Good sangria offers a balanced flavor, not a party of chemicals and coloring. And it should have well-chosen chopped fresh fruit (striking the sweet-acid-bitter balance).
4. Clara
Perfect for hot afternoons, clara is a mix of beer and lemon soda in equal parts, light and bubbly.
Local Tip: Beer purists look down on it, almost as much as they do to non-alcoholic beer, but don't listen to them. Order a clara at a beach bar, and wash it down with some bravas.
5. Carajillo
Nothing screams “Spain” more than a carajillo. This powerful espresso with a hint of liquor (either brandy, rum or whiskey) is the perfect ally to finish off a meal. It is strong, warm and has that rebellious touch that makes it irresistible.
Bonus 0.0
We move into non-alcoholic territory, here are some options for those who prefer to enjoy authentic flavors without a drop of alcohol. Catalonia also has its non-alcoholic side, but that does not make it any less interesting.
1. Mosto
Mosto is wine's little brother, but without going overboard (or fermenting). Basically, it's grape juice in its purest and sweetest form. A traditional, refreshing drink that's perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of the vine without side effects.
In Catalonia, it's easy to find a good mosto in wineries or restaurants that offer local products. If you visit a winery, they often include it in their tastings as an alternative to wine.
Local Tip: Order it very cold and, if you can, accompany it with a tapa of bread with tomato and sausages. It's the perfect pairing for a 100% authentic Catalan appetizer without the risk of dizziness.
2. Horchata
Horchata is that soft drink that seems simple, but has character. Made with tiger nuts, water and sugar, it's sweet, creamy and refreshing... although, if you're not prepared, the first sip can take you by surprise. Come on, it's not for everyone's taste, but once you get used to it, you'll fall in love!
Local Tip: In Barcelona, if you want a good horchata, go to Sirvent or Planelles Donat, which has been making quality, artisanal horchata for years. And if you want to take the experience to a whole new level, accompany it with some fartons, those buns that make no sense until you dip them in horchata. A good pairing.
3. Leche Merengada
We're moving into non-alcoholic territory with this delicious cold drink made from milk, cinnamon and lemon peel. It's the perfect balance between sweet and refreshing, ideal for a hot afternoon strolling through the Gothic Quarter.
Local Tip: Find it in the city's most traditional ice cream shops and and you can also try it as an ice cream cone. Yes, we know it seems like a lot of sugar, but you're on vacation.
4. Chocolate with Churros
This is more of a ritual than a drink. The chocolate in Barcelona is thick, almost like a dessert in itself, and the crunchy churros are the perfect complement. No matter if it's winter or summer, this duo never fails.
Local Tip: If you want a good chocolate, Petritxol is your street. Hidden in the heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, this narrow little street seems designed to tempt you with the irresistible aroma of thick chocolate and freshly made sweets.