Streetlife: Major de Sarrià

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FOIX DE SARRIÀ. Major de Sarrià 57.

This is the most well-known pastry shop in the neighbourhood and one of the oldest in Barcelona. Since 1886, they have been selling exquisite cakes piled high with glacé fruit and chocolates, colourful macaroons, an endless variety of truffles and cold cava to wash it down, all served by a charming young man in a black tux. Want to know a fun fact that makes this confitería even more famous? J.V. Foix, the famous early 20th-century Catalan poet and son of the store’s founders, lived with his family at this location. He grew up working in the family business as well as reading great literary masterpieces. Even as he began to focus more on his artistic purpose, Foix never forgot where he came from, and is said to have played a key role in keeping the Catalan language alive during the 40-year Franco regime.

ANTIGA CASA RAFAEL. Major de Sarrià 77.

Founded over 140 years ago, Antiga Casa Rafael is thought to be the oldest restaurant in Sarrià. The epitome of Catalan cooking, the restaurant is still run by descendants of the founder, the ubiquitous grandfather Rafael Jornet. Tía Antonia is the current owner, and it is recommended that you go for lunch on Thursdays to try her epic paella.

VIALIS. Major de Sarrià 72.

The Vialis brand was created in the Born in 1996, by a shoemaker trained in Menorca. Today, their passionate technical team work tirelessly to present a line of products that stands out for its creativity and authenticity. Simplistic forms, small details and vegetable-tanned leather make their shoes desirable for women from all walks of life.

COOKITECA. Major de Sarrià 74.

Neus Canal and her partner founded Cookiteca six and a half years ago. “We wanted to fill a void that we recognised in the city by providing hands-on cooking classes for adults and kids,” Canal explained. Courses range from eco-friendly cooking and birthday cakes to vegetarian meals and holiday specialities. “There’s a synergy between the kitchen, which fits 16 people, and the store out front,” she continued. “All the cookware and some of the ingredients that our clients need to recreate dishes learned in class can be bought here afterwards.” This type of culinary education is especially good for children. It’s a practical and engaging activity that allows them to socialise with kids from across the city, all while making and eating their favourite things, from rice and fish to lenguas de gato.

CASA JOANA. Major de Sarrià 59.

Passed down through generations of women from the same family for almost 50 years, Casa Joana continues to serve traditional homemade dishes to share, along with simplistic plates of meat, fish and eggs. Although much of the area around it has changed, this restaurant has stayed true to its roots and is packed with local families every weekend.

BAR TOMÁS. Major de Sarrià 49.

Patatas bravas are a staple of Barcelona cuisine, and customers of this classic Catalan greasy spoon claim it offers the best bravas in the city. Shining with oil and served with extra garlicky alioli, you have to try them for yourself to see if you agree.

EL CANALLA. Major de Sarrià 95.

This is one in a group of five independent restaurants led by Isidro Marques. Here you can savour fresh market Mediterranean cuisine on the terrace, located in the picturesque Plaça de Sarrià, across from L’Església de Sant Vicenç de Sarrià. Or squeeze into the bar, where the walls are lined with entertainment adverts and newspapers, the floor is covered in hydraulic tiles and the customers huddle together over drinks and chat. It’s cosy inside and the atmosphere doesn’t seem to embody its name, ‘The Scoundrel’, which could either be a good thing or a bad thing.

SANTAMASA. Major de Sarrià 97.

Open since October last year, this newcomer to the district landed a privileged location: an 18th-century Gothic palace directly off Plaça de Sarrià. The restaurant’s enchanting character is enhanced by its fusion-inspired menu, allowing you to eat your way around the world. Selections include a Japanese-style burger with oriental flavours of teriyaki and sesame, Mexican quesadillas and sachertorte—a type of chocolate cake invented in Vienna, Austria.