Betlem - Cozy Corner Bistro

I am always on the lookout for that perfect tapas bar. You know the one that has a friendly atmosphere, where you know you can get a table right away if you come early, that has a nice wine selection, where you can always have that favourite dish of yours but where they also surprise you with seasonal options. Betlem checks all of those boxes!

Betlem, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.

Betlem might not be a trendy place that everybody is talking about, which often is a good sign. It has been family owned since a long, long time. The restaurant itself is not big (it has a private dining room upstairs you can book though), but just that perfect size for something casual. I love the atmosphere, if you come early you get some peace and quiet, and as the evening turns into night so does the volume and the fun.

Betlem, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.

The menu is great. It changes with seasonal options, and it’s really difficult to decide between all the great-looking dishes. On our latest visit we had a fun salmon tartar with calçots and yuzu, and baby squids with samfaina, both truly delectable. We also opted for the ravioli filled with crab, coconut and lime, and grilled octopus on a bed of escalivada. For dessert a traditional mel i mató, a perfect ending for a perfect dinner.

Mel i mató at Betlem, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.

They’re open all day from noon, every day, which means you can pop by any time of the day. It’s also great for dropping by for a vermouth or a glass of wine, they have many good ones to choose from.

Betlem, C/ Girona 70, Barcelona (Eixample Dreta).