Atempo has quite a history. This Michelin-star restaurant run by Jordi Cruz first opened inside a hotel but the timing wasn’t quite right and because of the characteristics of the space itself. Cruz took his project and moved it to Girona, where it was wildly successful and achieved his star. After a couple of years, Atempo moved back to Barcelona, and it has been just as prosperous here.

Atempo Barcelona — *Atempo, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.*

The gastronomy here is defined as contemporary Avantgarde, doesn't that sound fabulous? I think so. The space is stunning, as expected, and the food does not disappoint. It is remarkably seasonal and exhilarating.

On my visit, the menu was slightly modified to accommodate a pairing with The Glenrothes single malt whisky; a top-notch whisky brand established in 1878, and local caviar legend Real Caviar, who brings all the best caviar from around the world to restaurants in Spain.

Spearheading the kitchen as a right-hand man to Cruz is Iñaki Aldrey. Classic cuisine is mixed with exotic touches, and when you glance at the menu, you know you are in for a treat. On our visit, we began our journey right by the entrance, where we were served a beautiful cocktail with The Glenrothes whisky, elderflower, rosemary, thyme, and oloroso sherry, together with a creme-fraiche popsicle with Amur caviar. The dreamiest start to a stellar experience.

From there, we moved towards the kitchen, where we could peek into all the action. There, the kitchen team had prepared two cocktails and two small dishes with flavors from the sea.

Next up was a fascinating and fun little parenthesis into our experience. The team explained the history behind the artwork decorating the restaurant's walls, and just when passing by the second kitchen, there is a large, beautiful painting of a stunning lady. Farting. Yes, you read that right..!

By this flatulent lady, we enjoyed the most delicious fried oysters with an umami-rich mushroom broth, served together with a cocktail with The Glenrothes whisky, lemongrass, and amontillado sherry. A dream..!

Once seated, the feast continued one magical dish after the other, paired with exceptional whisky from The Glenrothes. On this special menu, we had caviar even in our dessert! Both the kitchen team and the staff make the experience very special. Some of the dishes are prepared right before you, making it all a little extra unique.

Every single dish and drink we had was mind-blowing with its presentation and unbeatable flavors. We are so happy to have Atempo back in Barcelona!

The regular menu at Atempo will set you back 150€, to which you can add a wine pairing for 75€. You can expect around 16 courses. Worth every cent.

Atempo, C/ de Còrsega, 200, 08036 Barcelona (Eixample Esquerra).

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