Best Paella Negra I have ever tried. The calamari satisfied my seafood cravings as well. Alan was very friendly and went extra to accommodate our requests. Will come here again and recommend to friends
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Barcelona’s historic Ciutat Vella district, Àncora Restaurant Boqueria offers an unforgettable dining experience for both locals and visitors alike. Situated on P. de Sant Josep, 13, this cozy yet vibrant restaurant brings together traditional Mediterranean flavors with a contemporary twist, making it a top choice for those seeking high-quality Spanish cuisine.
The moment you step into Àncora Restaurant Boqueria, you’re immediately immersed in the warm, inviting atmosphere. The interior is thoughtfully designed with rustic charm, blending modern elements with classic Mediterranean aesthetics. It's the perfect setting for enjoying a meal with friends or family, or even a quiet, intimate dinner for two.
What truly sets this restaurant apart is its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Àncora’s menu celebrates the vibrant flavors of Spain, with a particular emphasis on seafood. From tender octopus to perfectly grilled prawns, each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the natural tastes of the ingredients. The daily specials feature seasonal catches, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.
For starters, the tuna tartare is a standout. The delicate fish is paired with a refreshing citrus dressing, creating a balanced flavor that is light yet satisfying. Another popular option is the patatas bravas, a classic Spanish tapa with crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and a dollop of aioli. These dishes perfectly encapsulate the restaurant’s ability to combine tradition with a modern flair.
The main courses at Àncora Restaurant Boqueria are equally impressive. The grilled sea bass is a crowd favorite, expertly cooked to perfection with a hint of olive oil and herbs. The fish is tender and flavorful, served alongside a selection of seasonal vegetables that complement the dish beautifully. Another must-try is the paella, which is brimming with fresh seafood and perfectly seasoned rice. Whether you’re a fan of shellfish or prefer the more delicate flavors of fish, the paella at Àncora will not disappoint.
In addition to the delectable food, the wine list at Àncora Restaurant Boqueria is carefully curated to offer the best Spanish wines. From crisp whites to rich reds, the staff is knowledgeable and more than happy to recommend a perfect pairing for your meal. The restaurant’s commitment to offering a wide range of wines ensures that every guest can find something to suit their taste, whether they prefer a light, refreshing glass of Albariño or a full-bodied Rioja.
One of the restaurant’s greatest strengths is its dedication to service. The waitstaff is attentive without being overbearing, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is flawless. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular patron, the team at Àncora Restaurant Boqueria makes you feel like a valued guest, offering recommendations and providing insight into the restaurant's culinary philosophy.
Moreover, the restaurant’s location is ideal for those exploring Barcelona’s famed markets. Just a short walk from La Boqueria, one of the city's most popular food markets, Àncora Restaurant Boqueria provides an ideal stop for a post-shopping meal. After browsing the fresh produce and local delicacies, visitors can sit down to a meal that showcases the best of the region’s offerings.
With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that Àncora Restaurant Boqueria has garnered glowing reviews from diners. Guests rave about the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the overall ambiance. It’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxing meal, savoring every bite while experiencing the vibrant culinary culture of Barcelona.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic Spanish dishes, or an expertly paired glass of wine, Àncora Restaurant Boqueria is sure to satisfy. It’s a place where food lovers can come together to enjoy delicious, high-quality meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Assistive hearing loop ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Paid multi-storey car park ✓ Paid parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Had a baked sea bream and arroz negro. Both dishes were outstanding. Fresh and flavorful, no frills. The service was also friendly, neighborhood-y. highly recommended.
We as foodies have done a lot of restaurants. Snacks eaten ... but can say with 100% certainty that we had the best service and food here! Conviviality ... both during the day and during the evening! Locations with a big name are better not to look for ! Cozy stroll in the little market and then reminisce at Ancora with the best dishes! Big thanks to the team ! Björn en Charlie
Amazing food. I loved the paella so much! Everyone there was extremely polite and fast-serving. Definitely a place to try. PS: Of course, Sangria is amazing too.
Good restaurant just outside La Boqueria. We found a table on the spot, even though the place was packed. The service was great and very fost. We ate: Pulpo a la gallega - very oily, the potatoes were not good. 3/5 Papatas braves - nice taste, good sauce. 4/5 Seafood paella - delicious, perfect, great taste. Loved it. 5/5 Fried fish - wonderful. 5/5 72 euros for this. It was worth it. Overall, good nice place.
Excellent food and drink!! We ordered paella, there was plenty of sea food, it was delicious. For those who love cinnamon, like me, must tey Crema Catalana - perfection!
The food is delicious and the service is excellent. If I have the chance, I will come back again.