La Boqueria
Set just back from La Rambla, the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a feast for the senses. This spot has been a marketplace since medieval times when Raval farmers sold their produce to the inhabitants of the walled city. The current public market is one of Europe’s largest, and although you’ll see plenty of tourists perusing the fresh produce, locals use it too. It was built in its current form in 1840 on the site of the former convent of St Joseph. The iron roof and Modernista entrance in colored glass were added in 1914; it has a sidewalk mosaic in front created by Joan Miró in the 1970s. Inside, more than 200 stalls are stacked high with beautifully arranged fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, nuts, and cheeses. It’s a great place for a freshly squeezed fruit juice, and counter-top bars such as El Quim and Bar Pinotxo serve excellent tapas with brisk efficiency—if you can grab a stool. But be warned, prices here are much higher than at the city’s 35 other markets. Tip: Pay attention to what the stalls are selling, and you’ll quickly learn what’s fresh and in season, and can order accordingly at restaurants.
Set just back from La Rambla, the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a feast for the senses. This spot has been a marketplace since medieval times when Raval farmers sold their produce to the inhabitants of the walled city. The current public market is one of Europe’s largest, and although you’ll see plenty of tourists perusing the fresh produce, locals use it too. It was built in its current form in 1840 on the site of the former convent of St Joseph. The iron roof and Modernista entrance in colored glass were added in 1914; it has a sidewalk mosaic in front created by Joan Miró in the 1970s. Inside, more than 200 stalls are stacked high with beautifully arranged fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, nuts, and cheeses. It’s a great place for a freshly squeezed fruit juice, and counter-top bars such as El Quim and Bar Pinotxo serve excellent tapas with brisk efficiency—if you can grab a stool. But be warned, prices here are much higher than at the city’s 35 other markets. Tip: Pay attention to what the stalls are selling, and you’ll quickly learn what’s fresh and in season, and can order accordingly at restaurants.
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