Benzina - Great Food and Fun Vibes
Sant Antoni is hands-down one of the most hip neighborhoods in the city, and Benzina fits right in, particularly with its privileged location on Passatge de Pere Calders. It is easily one of my favorite Italian restaurants, and if you haven’t been yet, you should ask yourself why..!
Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
What used to be a car mechanic’s shop is now a gorgeous space where a cool Brooklyn vibe has swept in, with a few Moroccan accents. So different, very attractive and sets a tone for the evening. You just know you will have a great time. Benzina has been around for a few years already, but I love that they keep it fresh like it’s the first they they’ve opened. They care about their guests, and the atmosphere is buzzing.
Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
The kitchen is busy, and the talented team at Benzina changes the menu approximately every two months (!), to highlight seasonal ingredients. I love this, because you always have something exciting to look forward to. They are always looking for something new, taking Italian staples and creating fun and modern versions of them.
Asparagus and burrata at Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
The menu divides into antipasti, pasta, gnocchi and risotto, fish and meat and, of course, desserts. On our last visit we devoured asparagus in three different versions with burrata, vitello tonnato with tuna cream, capers and pickled shallot, the INSANE linguine aglio with lobster, avocado and cardamom oil (this is one of the few dishes that has returned to the menu, and you simply must order it), the raviolo (they make different versions of these for each menu), and their magnificent panda cotta. Doesn’t it sound marvellous?
Raviolo at Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Prosecco at Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
The restaurant is perfect for a date night or a fun dinner with friends, and excellent for groups: there is always something for everyone to choose from in the menu. Both for food and drinks!
Panna Cotta at Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Cocktails at Benzina, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
The food and the atmosphere really come together in Benzina, and the vintage sounds from the speakers create a soundtrack for a fun evening (or weekend lunch) with friends or loved ones. Make sure you try the cocktails, the bar area itself is a feast for the eyes and the drinks are fun, creative, and elaborate. Don’t miss Benzina, it is one of a kind!
Benzina, Passatge de Pere Calders 6, Barcelona (Sant Antoni)
