Safrà 18 – The Spice of El Gòtic
Safrà 18 is in Barcelona’s busy quarter of El Gòtic, in the corner of two deliciously narrow and non-descript streets, Carrer Ample and Carrer Avinyó. This central location isn’t normally a guarantee of honest and decently-priced food, but Safrà 18 is an exception to the rule.
The restaurant’s entrance is nothing flashy nor ostentatious: a simple large door with an oxidized frame gives it an initial rustic feel. Once in, a long bar with three small tables gives it a quaint feel. Across the bar, the “corridor” gives way to a larger room, darkly lit -giving you a respite from the daily heat- with about 12 tables. The greeting is simple and homey, no-frills initial treatment here: after stating how many people you are, you’ll be pointed a couple of tables where you can sit.
Once sitting down you’ll be able to take in your surroundings, which will be consistent with the rustic initial feel of the entrance door. You’ll notice to the left a floor-to-ceiling window (the Carrer Avinyó side of the restaurant), high ceilings, and a kitchen area to the right. The windows are mercifully open during the summer months, which has the benefit of adding a gentle breeze without ruining your body temperature artificially.
The restaurant is perfect for a quick yet stress-free office lunch (set menu for €9.50, including a choice of 3 starters, a choice of 3 main courses and of 3 deserts, bread and drink, great value) or an informal dinner. The food is great value, mainly Catalan traditional recipies with an incursion overseas (Thursdays is traditionally “paella” day, but will give you a choice of an Argentinian dish for example as well as the catch of the day). The starters are more adventurous from a traditional point of view, but equally down-to-earth: cold water-melon soup or fresh wheat salad being two examples of the creativity of their unpretentious chef.
In summary, Safrà 18 is an honest, down-to-earth restaurant which offers hearty food, friendly and efficient service at a great price. Most importantly, a haven far from the maddening crowd of the Ramblas!
Average price: 30€
Opening hours, Monday-Sunday: 19:00-01:00
Tags: Catalan cuisine · Home cooking · Mediterranean cuisine
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