8 tasty and cheapo meals in Barcelona (with mouth-watering photos)

What’s for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Barcelona? (Not to mention tapas…) While we’ve gone on and on in other posts about recommended cheap eats, great lunch spots, and tips for saving on dining in Barcelona, sometimes a picture or two says it all.

Here’s some photo inspiration of tasty bites and spots to dine in Barcelona, Spain.

BREAKFAST- The breakfast of champions, frothy coffee with flaky croissants in the sun! (Read more about breakfast in Barcelona, with addresses for the best breakfast in each neighborhood.)

TAPAS – What would a trip to Spain be without tapas? Afternoon snack or for dinner, tapas should be an important part of your diet in Barcelona. Pictured above: patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and seasonal wild mushrooms (common in the fall). (Read more about tapas in Barcelona.)

LUNCH SPECIAL- Monday – Friday (and in some places on the weekend) look for chalkboards like this one featuring the Menú del Día or “Daily Special”; a set menu usually under $15 for three courses.

LENTILS – Legumes anyone? Spain is big on lentils, garbanzos, and other legumes. Above is a veggie lentil soup eaten at Blavis, a restaurant in the Gracia hood.

SEA SNAILS- Snails are often eaten in Spain. Their texture is, um, not for everyone. The snails above are sea snails served with rock salt.

ROASTED VEGETABLES- Asparagus, potatoes, spicy peppers, eggplant… all grilled up and served with thick, flavorful romesco red sauce.

SPANISH RICE- Otherwise known as paella, this is a must when in Barcelona or traveling along Spain’s eastern Mediterranean seaside. Paella can be made with seafood or meats, such as rabbit and chicken.

BURGERS – Suddenly, beer and burgers are popular in Barcelona, and “American-style” diners are appearing all over the city. Apolo Diner in the Poble Sec hood is a good choice.

COZY BARS AND RESTAURANTS – Barcelona has an endless selection of bars and eateries hidden away on cobblestone plazas and tucked down tiny streets. Avoid Las Ramblas and find something special and more local in El Raval, El Born or La Ribera.