La Esquina - Review - Placa Catalunya - Barcelona - The Infatuation

"The area around La Rambla is probably known more for the dexterity of pickpockets than the quality of food, so we’re lucky to have La Esquina. The all-day cafe near the shopping strip off Plaça Catalunya serves garlickier-than-average gambas al ajillo, loaded potato omelets, plump roast chicken croquettes, and hearty rice dishes—the octopus and Iberian pork rib is the most irresistible of all. The ambiance is more café-bistro than a formal restaurant, so come as you are—no need for reservations. After dark, it turns into a romantically lit bistro with Catalan natural wines and hearty dishes like oxtail sandwiches with smoked Idiazábal cheese. They taste like they would at your Catalan friend’s house, which is why this is a rare spot in the neighborhood that gets the local seal of approval." - Isabelle Kliger