Places to eat macaroni in Barcelona: the trendy restaurant dish

It's curious because, for many years, macaroni was the dish on children's menus in restaurants. Let me say that, personally, I'm opposed to the concept of a "children's menu," but that's a topic for another article. Back to macaroni. The fact is, we've always had the odd restaurant that made it exceptionally well, like the macaroni at Carles Gaig's El Cardenal. But in general, people didn't go to restaurants to eat macaroni. As we know, everything changes, and this humble yet delicious dish has recently appeared on the menus of every new restaurant that opens. The standard in modern establishments is usually macaroni served on a metal tray where the cheese is melted on the spot with a blowtorch. When you ask which dishes are the most popular, it's often one of the top choices. When people see the word macaroniThey have the urge to order them. Who can blame them? Good macaroni is always appealing, and surely the idea that people go to restaurants to eat what they don't usually cook at home is no longer an unquestionable axiom. Or perhaps we've simply stopped cooking macaroni altogether, who knows?

So, let's make a list of where to eat macaroni, as it's enjoying its golden age. We'll review both new additions and establishments that were already serving it before the craze took off. In fact, if I had to choose just one place to eat macaroni, it wouldn't be a new one, but one of the tried-and-true favorites. It's Monocromo, located at number 4 Plaza Cardona in Barcelona. A temple of natural wines and good food. Their macaroni is legendary. In fact, they delivered during the pandemic and made the lockdown more bearable. Of course, macaroni is just one of the dishes they excel at. Their escalivada (roasted vegetables) is also highly recommended. In any case, Monocromo is always a safe bet, whether you go for macaroni or not.

Another place with noteworthy macaroni is Santa Magdalena, in the Gràcia neighborhood. Quim Marquès' restaurant is a sure thing. Ideal for eating with friends or the classic "couples' dinner." Food designed for sharing. If you go, I strongly recommend (I'd insist if I could) ordering the chickpeas Pinocchio-style, in homage to the much-missed and charismatic Juanito Bayén, and don't miss the seasonal specials.

Three types of macaroni

More sites. In the Aüc, at the top of the cityIn Plaça del Camp, they have three types of macaroni. Auntie's macaroni, with minced meat and spices; ex-mother-in-law's macaroni, with sausage and ribs; and cousin's macaroni, which is a version of carbonara. This restaurant is a good example of quality food without unnecessary complications. A wonderful option if you're in the area. Chef Eugeni de Diego also has several macaroni dishes, which he offers in his restaurants, such as the always reliable Colmado Wilmot or the recently opened 640 brewery on Diagonal. His Italian restaurant, Lombo, doesn't strictly serve macaroni, but as you might expect, it offers a selection of delicious pasta dishes.

Among the recently opened places that offer macaroni, we must mention Casa Fiero, the restaurant of the chefs from MaleducatYou'll find them on Londres Street, and they offer a selection of casseroles perfect for dipping bread, as well as grilled meats and fish. Undoubtedly, one of last year's most celebrated openings. But since I'm thrilled by newcomers and enamored with the old guard, it's not just the brilliance of the latest opening that captivates me. There are two other undeniably excellent options: Franco Monrabà's "rogue tavern" Haddock and Jordi Vilà's Alkostat. Guaranteed success.

And finally, I can't help but mention that, if you have deep pockets and the luck of a reservation, the chefs at Disfrutar have a version of macaroni carbonara that anyone who's tried it will remember forever. Cheers and pasta!