Malparit - A Charming Touch of Character

Eixample Esquerra

Jun 22

Written By Maria

Eixample has been blessed with a charming, tongue-in-cheek restaurant with an attractive rebellious streak: Malparit. It belongs to the No Hay Mañana group (Chamako, Babula, Madre, Tie Break) but confidently carves out its own bold identity.

Malparit Restaurant Barcelona — *Malparit Restaurant, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.*

I am always drawn to restaurants where the interior is divided into different areas, each with its unique purpose. You might choose a seat by the bar and watch the chefs in action, grab a high stool for just a beer and a snack, go for a cozy corner for a date night, or host a business lunch or bring your in-laws for a nice meal. Malparit comfortably adjusts to all these scenarios, and makes you instantly feel like you’re where you’re supposed to be.

Malparit Restaurant, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.

Malparit’s menu is filled to the brim with traditional dishes, but with a playful tone to them. You order something familiar, but you’re likely to be surprised.

Oysters at Malparit Restaurant, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.

Take the oysters: they are not only served au natural but also with the option of a romesco sauce or “a la viscaína”. The ensaladilla rusa is topped with shrimp “al pil pil”. These playful touches are scattered throughout the menu, divided into cold starters, fried items, “plancha” (griddle), “fuego” (open flame), brasa (charcoal grill), and sides, and even a homage to bread, featuring six different options.

It’s highly recommended to choose dishes from each of these sections to fully appreciate the range and creativity coming out of the kitchen.

Personal highlights: the oysters in their different variations, a gorgeously runny tortilla - perfect for sharing and exactly as juicy as it should be (you can ask for extras like sobrasada, jamón, or piparras). The famous steak tartare from Babula also makes an appearance on the menu, and it doesn’t disappoint.

There’s a clear nod to Catalan cuisine in the scallops with spinach “A la Catalana” but with an unexpected touch of payoyo cheese. Surprising and addictive.

The torrezno is a must-order: not only for its crispy-juicy combo but also simply for its brute presentation. There’s always dishes of the day, and any fresh fish sourced that day.