The vermouth bar with the best views of the city of Barcelona in a renovated hotel

BarcelonaThe imposing Hotel La Florida is now called METT. In recent years, we've seen several name changes in the city's hotel sector, and this is one of them. The METT has been completely renovated and, consequently, also boasts a new culinary offering, which we went to explore. On one side, there's Vermuteria 1925, and next to it, the Albarada restaurant. Both are located opposite the terrace with its panoramic views, as we're high up on Tibidabo mountain.

We'll dissect the two establishments from a gastronomic perspective, but first, let us explain how to get here. For those of us who prefer public transport, getting here is part of the adventure. One option is to take the train to the Pie del Funicular stop. From there, take the small funicular and get off at the last stop, which is the second one the funicular makes. Right there, at the exit, you'll find the stop for bus 111, one of the small local buses. And this is where the visual spectacle begins. Sit on the right side of the bus, facing forward, and you'll see that, as you climb the mountain, Barcelona unfolds at your feet. If you're driving, the lucky passenger will also see this. In fact, driving is also a great option, as we're located high above the city. These breathtaking views are what you'll find once you're seated inside.

Vermuteria 1925 has a very tempting menu. Many types of vermouth, cocktails based on this herbal wine, and other creations, including non-alcoholic options. The menu is simple and effective: patatas bravas, sobrasada with honey, anchovies, escalivada, Catalan cured meats, cod with chickpeas, Pepito Beef steak or a chistorra sausage frankfurter. The dining room is elegant and pleasant. At night, you can see the twinkling lights of Barcelona in the background. If the weather is nicer, you can always go out onto the terrace, where there are heaters and blankets. When the weather gets warmer, I imagine it's an amazing place for first dates, for example, when you're getting to know each other and don't want to run into a coworker or the neighbor downstairs. We're in a five-star hotel, and the prices are high but not prohibitive. Most cocktails range from 14 to 16 euros, beer is 5 euros, and patatas bravas are 12 euros. It's open every day from noon to midnight.

Next door, along the terrace, we find the hotel restaurant. It's called Albarada, named for the beautiful sunrises that can be enjoyed from this spot. It's a shame that only hotel guests can experience it, as this is also where breakfast is served. They also serve lunch on weekends and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday. It's unusual because hotel restaurants are usually open almost all the time. This one isn't. They serve Mediterranean cuisine using high-quality ingredients. Proud of their Josper oven, they showcase it in dishes like steak tartare with bone marrow, or in the fish and meat dishes they serve. Excellent service and light, flavorful food. However, prices here are higher than at the vermouth bar.

And one last tip: if you've arrived by public transport and it's getting late, keep in mind that taxis take a while to reach the hotel; book one about 20 minutes in advance.