Café de L'Academia

Frommer's Review

In the center of Barri Gòtic a short walk from Plaça Sant Jaume, this 28-table restaurant looks expensive but is really one of the best and most affordable in the medieval city. The building dates from the 15th century, but the restaurant was founded only in the mid-1980s. Owner Jordi Casteldi offers an elegant atmosphere in a setting of brown-stone walls and ancient wooden columns. At a small bar you can peruse the varied menu and study the wines offered. Dishes of this quality usually cost three times as much in Barcelona. The chef is proud of his "kitchen of the market," suggesting that only the freshest ingredients from the day's shopping are featured. Try such delights as bacallà gratinado i musselina de carofes (salt cod gratinée with an artichoke mousse) or terrina d'berengeras amb fortmage de cabra (terrine of eggplant with goat cheese). A delectable specialty sometimes available is codorniz rellena en cebollitas tiernas y foie de pato (partridge stuffed with tender onions and duck liver). On warm evenings, go for one of the outside, candlelit tables on the atmospheric square dominated by a Gothic church.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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