Winter is the time for cozy comfort foods that warm both the body and the soul. Each city has its own special dishes, and Catalonia is no exception. Here’s our top 5 favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona for when the weather turns cold!
Looking for more authentic Spanish foods? Don’t miss these 7 must-try dishes in Barcelona!
Escudella i Carn d’Olla
Barcelona’s version of winter stew is an absolute must-try during the cold months of the year. Escudella i carn d’olla is the first documented soup in Europe, with original recipes dating back to the 14th century. It was something the citizens of Catalonia ate every day!
Expect to find it served in two courses: the first, the broth with noodles or rice, and second, a selection of meats and vegetables that made the broth, including an enormous meatball pilota.
Where to try Escudella i Carn d’Olla in Barcelona: Terra d’Escudella
Lentejas
Lentejas, or lentil soup, is one of the most typical comfort foods of Spain. Hearty, rich and filling, this staple of Spanish cuisine generally consists of a thick stew made with chorizo, garlic and bay leaves for flavor. We love tucking into this delicious bowl of warmth on cold days. It’s definitely one of our favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona.
Where to try lentejas in Barcelona: Botigueta del Bon Menjar
Mandonguilles amb Sípia
Barcelona is a city sandwiched between the sea and mountains, which makes for no surprise that Catalan cuisine highlights many mar i muntanya, or surf and turf dishes. As a result, one of the best foods to eat in winter in Barcelona is mandonguilles amb sípia, or meatballs with cuttlefish. This combination is incredibly flavorful, and one of our favorites of all Catalan cuisine!
Where to try mandonguilles amb sípia in Barcelona: Bar del Pal
Arroz Caldoso
Sure, you can eat paella in winter in Barcelona, but on a cold day, there’s nothing quite like an arroz caldoso, literally translated as “brothy rice”. Although this might not sound very appetizing to some, believe us when we say that this is an absolute treat of winter dishes in Spain! This dish can come in many different forms, especially if you treat yourself to one with bogavante, or lobster!
Where to try arroz caldoso in Barcelona: Can Solé
Canelons
Cannelloni aren’t just one of the best comfort food dishes in Barcelona, but we (humbly think) in the world. The Catalan version of this stuffed pasta is a typical dish on Boxing Day, although it’s the perfect dish throughout winter in Barcelona.
Whether stuffed with roast chicken or mushrooms, you can expect loads of creamy bechamel and rich flavor in canelons found in Catalonia.
Where to try canelons in Barcelona: Bar del Pla
More Comfort Food Dishes in Barcelona
These are just a handful of our favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona, but there are other delicious warming tasty tapas to find in Barcelona, too. Don’t miss these other must-try dishes while you’re visiting the Catalan capital (or any corner of the region).
Taste the Best Tapas in Barcelona on Tour
Our Barcelona Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour is the way to taste—and truly understand—Barcelona’s tapas culture. You’ll wind through the Gothic Quarter’s tangled alleyways, stepping into century-old taverns that make this city so unforgettable. Along the way, taste 10+ iconic tapas, sip vermouth, cava, and regional wines, and uncover the stories that shaped Barcelona itself.
Featured Review: Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The information, the food and wine, and especially our guide Feliciano were outstanding and exceptional. They were able to accommodate us all, food allergies and walking needs.”
– Alice on Viator
Comfort Food in Barcelona FAQs
What qualifies as “comfort food” in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, comfort food refers to hearty, familiar dishes that are cozy and satisfying. Locals enjoy rich stews, slow-cooked meats, and beloved Catalan dishes.
Are Barcelona comfort foods suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, many comfort foods have vegetarian or vegan versions, especially dishes like escalivada (smoky roasted vegetables) or crema catalana (dairy-free options in some places). It’s best to ask your server about substitutions or allergen information, as recipes can vary.
When is the best time to enjoy comfort food in Barcelona?
Comfort food is especially popular in the cooler months, but locals enjoy these dishes year-round. Lunchtime (almuerzo) is a great time to sample them, though many restaurants serve comfort classics all day.
Where can I find traditional comfort food in Barcelona?
Look for neighborhood tascas, local bistros, and Spanish family-run restaurants in areas like Gràcia, El Born, Sant Antoni, and the Gothic Quarter. These spots often serve authentic, hearty fare alongside house wines and regional favorites.
Should I expect large portions when ordering comfort food in Barcelona?
Portion sizes vary by restaurant, but many traditional comfort dishes are designed for sharing or come in generous main-course sizes. If you’re trying several dishes with friends or family, tapas-style ordering can be a great way to sample more without overfilling.
Last Updated on January 27, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: October 20, 2017
Winter is the time for cozy comfort foods that warm both the body and the soul. Each city has its own special dishes, and Catalonia is no exception. Here’s our top 5 favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona for when the weather turns cold!
Looking for more authentic Spanish foods? Don’t miss these 7 must-try dishes in Barcelona!
Escudella i Carn d’Olla
Barcelona’s version of winter stew is an absolute must-try during the cold months of the year. Escudella i carn d’olla is the first documented soup in Europe, with original recipes dating back to the 14th century. It was something the citizens of Catalonia ate every day!
Expect to find it served in two courses: the first, the broth with noodles or rice, and second, a selection of meats and vegetables that made the broth, including an enormous meatball pilota.
Where to try Escudella i Carn d’Olla in Barcelona: Terra d’Escudella
Lentejas
Lentejas, or lentil soup, is one of the most typical comfort foods of Spain. Hearty, rich and filling, this staple of Spanish cuisine generally consists of a thick stew made with chorizo, garlic and bay leaves for flavor. We love tucking into this delicious bowl of warmth on cold days. It’s definitely one of our favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona.
Where to try lentejas in Barcelona: Botigueta del Bon Menjar
Mandonguilles amb Sípia
Barcelona is a city sandwiched between the sea and mountains, which makes for no surprise that Catalan cuisine highlights many mar i muntanya, or surf and turf dishes. As a result, one of the best foods to eat in winter in Barcelona is mandonguilles amb sípia, or meatballs with cuttlefish. This combination is incredibly flavorful, and one of our favorites of all Catalan cuisine!
Where to try mandonguilles amb sípia in Barcelona: Bar del Pal
Arroz Caldoso
Sure, you can eat paella in winter in Barcelona, but on a cold day, there’s nothing quite like an arroz caldoso, literally translated as “brothy rice”. Although this might not sound very appetizing to some, believe us when we say that this is an absolute treat of winter dishes in Spain! This dish can come in many different forms, especially if you treat yourself to one with bogavante, or lobster!
Where to try arroz caldoso in Barcelona: Can Solé
Canelons
Cannelloni aren’t just one of the best comfort food dishes in Barcelona, but we (humbly think) in the world. The Catalan version of this stuffed pasta is a typical dish on Boxing Day, although it’s the perfect dish throughout winter in Barcelona.
Whether stuffed with roast chicken or mushrooms, you can expect loads of creamy bechamel and rich flavor in canelons found in Catalonia.
Where to try canelons in Barcelona: Bar del Pla
More Comfort Food Dishes in Barcelona
These are just a handful of our favorite comfort food dishes in Barcelona, but there are other delicious warming tasty tapas to find in Barcelona, too. Don’t miss these other must-try dishes while you’re visiting the Catalan capital (or any corner of the region).
Taste the Best Tapas in Barcelona on Tour
Our Barcelona Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour is the way to taste—and truly understand—Barcelona’s tapas culture. You’ll wind through the Gothic Quarter’s tangled alleyways, stepping into century-old taverns that make this city so unforgettable. Along the way, taste 10+ iconic tapas, sip vermouth, cava, and regional wines, and uncover the stories that shaped Barcelona itself.
Featured Review: Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The information, the food and wine, and especially our guide Feliciano were outstanding and exceptional. They were able to accommodate us all, food allergies and walking needs.”
– Alice on Viator
Comfort Food in Barcelona FAQs
What qualifies as “comfort food” in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, comfort food refers to hearty, familiar dishes that are cozy and satisfying. Locals enjoy rich stews, slow-cooked meats, and beloved Catalan dishes.
Are Barcelona comfort foods suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, many comfort foods have vegetarian or vegan versions, especially dishes like escalivada (smoky roasted vegetables) or crema catalana (dairy-free options in some places). It’s best to ask your server about substitutions or allergen information, as recipes can vary.
When is the best time to enjoy comfort food in Barcelona?
Comfort food is especially popular in the cooler months, but locals enjoy these dishes year-round. Lunchtime (almuerzo) is a great time to sample them, though many restaurants serve comfort classics all day.
Where can I find traditional comfort food in Barcelona?
Look for neighborhood tascas, local bistros, and Spanish family-run restaurants in areas like Gràcia, El Born, Sant Antoni, and the Gothic Quarter. These spots often serve authentic, hearty fare alongside house wines and regional favorites.
Should I expect large portions when ordering comfort food in Barcelona?
Portion sizes vary by restaurant, but many traditional comfort dishes are designed for sharing or come in generous main-course sizes. If you’re trying several dishes with friends or family, tapas-style ordering can be a great way to sample more without overfilling.
