Located just off Passeig de Gràcia, Bar Mut is the kind of place that if you mention it to anyone who’s been, the response will invariably be “aaaaaah,” as they go all googly-eyed thinking about that excellent meal they had there. Bottles of wine line the walls in this classic, cramped bar with its high wooden stools and marble countertops, and you order whatever is on the chalkboard that day. While the specials change regularly, make sure to try the seasonal croquettes, steak with either mushrooms or foie gras (depending on the time of year), or the lobster in egg and brandy. They do take reservations, but if you get there on the earlier side, you can usually squeeze in before the crowds take over, or try your luck on the small patio.

photo credit: Sebastián Gómez