Originally just a gourmet dining room on the edge of the city's Gothic District, ABaC became so popular that it's clientele literally moved in, at least on a nightly basis. In 2008 the famed-restaurant relocated to add its own 5-star design hotel and destination spa that is one of the most fashionable addresses in the city. At the heart of the hotel is still the grand eatery helmed by Xavier Pellicer, a student of Jacques Maximim, who handed over his kitchen to hot chef Jordi Cruz. Previously of L'Angle in Sant Fruitós de Bages, Cruz now oversees one of the cities most famous 2-star Michelin restaurants. The architectural space is one of the chicest in Barcelona, as with the hotel, facing a manicured garden through large windows cast in shades of white and cream with honey-colored wood floors worked by dapper waiters with white glove service.
The Food
An ala carte or tasting menu for the whole table offers an impressive array of Catalan cuisine in innovative presentations that have just gotten more elaborate under the helm of Cruz. Appetizers of spring salads of local produce, scallops on potato bilinis and prawns served with watercress and olive bread are sourced from local markets and produce farmers. Seafood entrees like lobster Bolognese, Atlantic sole with wild mushroom and roasted octopus with prawn emulsion are only rivaled by El Bulli in their perfection. Main course includes milk fed lamb with vanilla, goat ala Milanese with truffle, grilled venison in poivrade sauce and veal jarret for two.
Last Word
Barcelona gourmand and hotel under new leadership with menu that’s still honored with 2 Michelin stars. Budget diners should not miss the daily 60-Euro lunch that’s one of the best dining deals in the city.
