Sant Jordi is much more than a festival; It is a living expression of Catalan culture and tradition that is celebrated every April 23. On this day, the streets of Barcelona are transformed into a vibrant showcase of literature and romance, where the ancient custom of giving roses and books comes to life, dating back to the 15th century. The legend of the brave Sant Jordi, who defeated a dragon to save a princess, is the heart of this celebration, symbolized by the rose that was born from the blood of the defeated dragon. This gesture of love and bravery is reflected in the tradition of exchanging books and roses, a gesture that today transcends genders, becoming a mutual exchange of culture and affection. Furthermore, UNESCO has elevated this day to an international level, declaring it World Book and Copyright Day, in commemoration of the coincidence of the death of great writers such as Cervantes and Shakespeare. The celebration of Sant Jordi is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the depths of Catalan culture, defending and promoting its language and traditions, while enjoying special activities and free visits to emblematic buildings in Barcelona, turning the city into the stage perfect for celebrating love and culture.
1. Xica House
Casa Xica Barcelona, located in the Eixample district, is presented as a refuge with modern and minimalist design, where comfort and tranquility are priorities. This boutique hotel not only stands out for its aesthetics, but also for its commitment to sustainability, implementing measures to reduce energy consumption and waste. Among its amenities, guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace, a small library and an honesty bar, adding a special touch to the stay.
Services and Facilities:
- Rooftop terrace for panoramic views.
- Library and honesty bar for relaxing moments.
- Additional services such as airport transfers, bike rentals, and guided tours
Room prices vary between €150 and €300 per night, depending on the season and room type, with the option to add breakfast for an additional €15 per person. Accessibility is a priority, with lifts to all floors and wheelchair-accessible rooms. The location is a strong point, close to tourist attractions and public transport, making it ideal for exploring Barcelona. Guests have praised the cleanliness, the design of the rooms and the friendliness of the staff, available 24/7, making Casa Xica an excellent option for those looking for romantic restaurants in Barcelona to celebrate Sant Jordi.
2. BelleBuon
In the heart of Barcelona, BelleBuòn stands as an emblem of authentic Italian cuisine, offering a culinary experience that transports its diners directly to the most picturesque regions of Italy. With meticulous attention to quality and freshness, the restaurant prides itself on its house-made pasta and a selection of antipasti and specialties that reflect the diversity and richness of Italian cuisine. Among the star dishes are the Scialatielli ai frutti di mare and the Raviolo pappone, each prepared with ingredients imported directly from Italy to ensure an authentic and memorable taste.
Menu Specialties:
- Scialatielli ai frutti di mare: A tribute to the flavors of the sea, combining fresh seafood with handmade pasta.
- Raviolo pappone: A stuffed delight that captures the essence of home-style Italian cooking.
- Tagliatelle al pesto di pistacchio di Brontë: A dish that highlights the unique flavor of Brontë pistachio.
With 16 years of experience, BelleBuòn has not only established its reputation for exceptional food but also for exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere that invites diners to return again and again. Located in the Horta-Guinardó district, near the Alfons X metro station, the restaurant offers excellent value for money, making it an ideal option for both young people and families. The possibility of making reservations directly with the restaurant adds a personal touch to the experience, ensuring an unforgettable night in one of the most emblematic romantic restaurants in Barcelona to celebrate Sant Jordi.
3. Hotel Monumento – Glass
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Hotel Monument Glass Restaurant stands on the sixth floor of the hotel, offering a unique culinary experience in an elegant and bright space, completely surrounded by glass. This restaurant has become a favorite destination for those looking to start their day with a luxurious breakfast buffet, available from 7:00 to 11:00 am, where you can taste international options along with dishes prepared to order.
Buffet Breakfast: Includes a wide selection of breads, pastries, cakes, cold cuts, cheeses, yogurts, fruits, juices and hot dishes.
Special Options: For diners with specific requirements, the restaurant offers gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives, ensuring an inclusive and satisfactory experience for everyone.
Diners have praised the exceptional service, the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the food, highlighting the cozy and romantic atmosphere of the place, ideal for special celebrations. Although the prices are slightly high, the overall experience and quality of service and food justify the investment, making the Hotel Monument Glass Restaurant a mandatory stop for those who wish to enjoy one of the most romantic restaurants in Barcelona during the celebration of Sant Jordi.
4. Smuggling
In Barcelona’s picturesque Gothic Quarter, Restaurante Contraban emerges as an oasis of Spanish tapas with a modern twist. Located at Carrer de la Mercè, 20, its welcoming and lively atmosphere invites both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in an authentic gastronomic experience. Although the place is known for its bustle, especially during peak hours, the attentive and friendly service makes up for the occasional wait.
Specialties and Prices:
- Patatas bravas, croquettes and Iberian ham stand out among the favorite options.
- Dish prices range from €2.50 to €12.00, offering an affordable culinary experience without compromising quality.
- The selection of Spanish wines, beers and cocktails perfectly complements the experience, with prices ranging from €3.00 to €8.00 per drink.
The privileged location near the cathedral and the ease of access by public transport (Liceu metro station) make Contraban an ideal option for those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Barcelona. Although customer reviews vary, with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5, positive comments highlight the quality of the food and the vibrant atmosphere of the place, while reviews tend to focus on wait times and prices.
5. Love Barcelona
Amar Barcelona, located at the prestigious Gran Via address of Les Corts Catalanes within the El Palace Barcelona Hotel, offers a culinary experience that stands out for its Mediterranean cuisine and a special selection of seafood. This restaurant is not only proud of its inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide, but also of providing a cozy, romantic and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for celebrating special occasions such as Sant Jordi.
Featured Dishes:
- Seafood fideuá: A delicious version of paella, but with noodles and fresh seafood.
- Black rice with cuttlefish: An intensely tasty dish that combines rice treated with squid ink and pieces of cuttlefish.
- Corvina ceviche: Marine freshness in every bite, accompanied by citrus touches and aromatic herbs.
Amar Barcelona not only impresses with its menu, but also with additional services such as Wi-Fi, parking, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, and the possibility of enjoying sea views from its outdoor terrace. With a price range between €120 and €150, it offers a high-end experience backed by exceptional service and an interesting wine list, making it an unbeatable choice for those looking for romantic restaurants in Barcelona with stunning views and unforgettable food.
6. Ikoya Izakaya
Ikoya Izakaya Barcelona has established itself as a benchmark for Japanese cuisine in Barcelona, strategically located near the emblematic Sagrada Familia, in the vibrant Eixample district. This restaurant stands out for its cozy and intimate atmosphere, ideal for romantic dinners or small meetings. Customers constantly highlight the quality, freshness and authenticity of their dishes, especially sushi and sashimi, made with Japanese culinary techniques and fresh market products.
Menu variety:
- Sushi, sashimi, yakitori, among others.
- Vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Selection of artisanal sakes to accompany the food.
Service is another strong point, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring an exceptional dining experience. Prices are moderate, with main dishes ranging between 10 and 20 euros, offering excellent value for money. Reservations are recommended given the popularity of the place. Additionally, Ikoya Izakaya offers takeaway service, allowing you to enjoy its delicacies at home. The combination of an intimate atmosphere, authentic dishes and attentive service make Ikoya Izakaya an unmissable option for those looking for romantic restaurants in Barcelona to celebrate special occasions such as Sant Jordi.