Pepa Bar A Vins - Wine and Romance
A staple in the gastro bar scene in Barcelona is Pepa Bar a Vins, hands down. Slightly off the radar, this cozy wine bar used to be a book shop for many years. Many elements from that time have been beautifully preserved, such as the book shelves on the walls that are now filled with wine bottles, the colorful floor tiles and the exposed brick walls. The friendly staff is happy to share the fascinating secrets that the place holds.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
I recommend choosing a seat in the back where the open kitchen is located, to see all the action behind the scenes, although the cosy tables at the front are lit by reading lamps and also create plenty of atmosphere for a cosy dinner for two.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
The staff adds to the charm of the place, no doubt. It is a friendly and enthusiastic bunch that is quick to make you feel at home, and very knowledgeable about both the food and the wines they are serving.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Looking at the menu you will see an array of dishes to share, perfect for an intimate evening. The ingredients are local and the dishes are a nudge to the classics, but with plenty of innovation and surprises. If the mussels with vermouth and orange are on the menu make sure you order them. And save room for dessert! The brioche with chocolate, raspberry and meringue is mind-blowing, as is the pistachio tiramisu that is the talk of the town for those who are in the know.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
You can not talk about Pepa Bar a Vins without mentioning the wines. If you are a fan of good wines you will not be disappointed here. The staff will be happy to answer all your questions and suggest interesting pairings to your dishes. There are plenty of unusual and fun wines to choose from, most of them organic and natural. Should vermouth be more your kind of thing then you will find it here too, even on tap, and delectable snacks to go with it such as hand-cut chips if you are feeling peckish and prefer to forego a full lunch or dinner.
Pepa Bar a Vins, Carrer d’Aribau, 41, 08011 Barcelona (Eixample Esquerra).
