Ohla Eixample
"What's the vibe?With a geometric exterior that's something between a Sudoku grid and a game of Tetris, Ohla Eixample's facade hints at the modern experience inside. Once you're checked in, complimentary glass of cava in hand, you can admire the trunk-like metal support beams, exposed industrial ceilings, and multi-colored lamps. More surprising, perhaps, are the tortoise sculptures, which dot the space, hide-and-seek style. Give us the backstory on this place.Local architects Isern Associats were given a former 1970s office block (ugly) with weird ceiling heights (challenging), and an unfortunate proximity to the metro (noisy). Yet the final result is sleek, sculptural, and well soundproofed. You’ll find Ohla Eixample's sister property, Ohla Barcelona, on Via Laietana on the busier side of the Eixample district. Tell us about your room.Our room was spacious and cement-heavy. Taller guests will love the Junior Suites, which have extra-large beds; Deluxe rooms have balconies; the Attic has a terrace. A bedside control panel has four lighting modes—Day, Relax, Night, and Off. The only divisive point could be the shower: It’s transparent and visible from the bed. Great for light; less great if you’re traveling with your mother. How's the Wi-Fi?Free, and no complaints on quality. What's the dining and drinking scene like?Fran López’s Michelin-starred Xerta does beautiful things to ingredients solely found in the Ebro Delta, a region two hours south of Barcelona rich in rice, duck, eels, and oysters. You can order à la carte, but the tasting menu nails the must-eats: the Kabayaki eel with a spice-packed (but not hot) sauce, and, for dessert, the Sopa de la Reina, featuring delicate morsels with cinnamon, lemon, and burnt yolk. The wine pairing features unusual hits, including sherries and a Radix rosé that will undo every stigma you might hold about dark rosés. How did you find the service?The staff is plentiful and multilingual. Who stays here?An extremely international mix, with many saying hello to newly made friends over breakfast. How's the neighborhood?Sandwiched between two great, partly pedestrianized streets: Rambla de Catalunya, perfect for shopping, and Enric Granados, perfect for eating. Any standout features?The roof terrace, an urban garden complete with olive trees, has squishy, airbed-style loungers, a friendly cocktail bar, and a rare Barcelona win in the form of a year-round pool that’s heated in winter. What's the bottom line?If you crave modern design—concrete floors, exposed ceilings, and the like—this is a strong option. If that leaves you cold, come for dinner at Xerta instead." - Gemma Askham
