The majestic stairs of the MNAC building overlooking Plaça Espanya makes it the perfect spot for a photo op, though few visitors have been tempted by the Catalan art inside the museum itself.
Offering something to eat has worked wonders though, and Oleum is now one of the museum’s main draws. With not a hint of plastic trays or self-service in sight, the place is spacious and luxurious and has wonderful views to accompany the great food. Set aside enough time to wander around and enjoy the stunning dome paintings in the building either before or after eating.
While it used to be nearly impossible to locate a decent eatery open in high summer, this year most restaurants have cut short their holiday breaks. And this recent opening hardly closes at all.
At a first glance, it looks like yet another formula-driven place - a formula that includes an interior by Lazaro Rosa-Violán, sushi and, sure enough, cocktails - but, as the name allures to, the fish is what really does set it apart.
The restaurant at Grec is now back and this year opens not only on nights of performances, but lets you enjoy the flame-grilled delights every night until August 2.
Carles Abellán and Jordi Hereu, the mayor, re-opened the legendary place in front of an invited audience, of which many appeared to be regulars from the early stages of the bar that opened for the first time back in 1933.
The place has been restored to its original glory by Moritz and now opens with super chef Carles Abellán overseeing the kitchen with classic Catalan bistro dishes. The original art deco feel has been revived, maintaining many of the original design elements.
