GARLANA: A LOCAL SPOT IN BARCELONA WITH A FOCUS ON PAELLAS AND FIDEUÁS
The Cost -$18 per person
The Atmosphere – There is nothing fancy or special about Garlana’s atmosphere, but it also doesn’t seem like the restaurant makes much effort in that respect. The casual eatery offers indoor seating with a few tables outdoors as well. It probably isn’t the best place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion but unlike many of Barcelona’s more well-known restaurants, a reservation at Garlana is not necessary and you will generally be able to get a table just by walking in.
Located outside of the main tourist areas of Barcelona in the Les Corts district, Garlana is a no-frills spot that is frequented mainly by locals. The restaurant’s menu is compromised mostly of classic Spanish dishes with a strong focus on Spanish cold meats, croquetas, paellas, and fideuás. In search of an easy, casual Spanish meal, we checked out Garlana for dinner.
The Order – Fideuá con “All I Oli”
The Good – Fideuá, a dish similar to the beloved Spanish paella, originates from the coast of Valencia. Instead of rice though, fideuá uses noodles as the base of the dish, which contains no rice at all. Garlana’s Fideuá con “All i Oli” followed form- coming out in a paella pan, the fideuá was a hefty portion of cut-up spaghetti-like noodles with a mix of seafood including four large prawns, six mussels, clams, and calamari rings. Served with some lemon slices and wedges and garlic aioli (hence the name) on the side, the portion was large enough for at least three people even though it was ordered at the smallest size offered – for two. The noodles were good, though not anything amazing but the prawns and the mussels were very tasty and were the best part of the dish. Overall, it was an enjoyable entrée and a nice choice for people who aren’t fans of the rice in paella or who want to try a Spanish dish that is not as easy to find once you leave Spain.
The Verdict – Is Garlana a high-end restaurant with an amazing atmosphere and creative dishes? No. But it is a more affordable option for those seeking a classic Spanish meal more catered to locals. If you are nearby the restaurant and are looking for a dinner option at the last minute, Garlana is a good bet to have a table available and to provide you with an above-average, well-priced meal.