What I Ate in La Boqueria
As you may know from my recent What I Ate article, we’ve holidayed in Morocco this Summer and en route back to Malta, we decided to stop over in Barcelona.
As faith has it, Barcelona had just been struck in a vicious terrorist attack just a few days before, so the atmosphere in the main street Las Ramblas was mainly sombre. Amongst a sea of flowers on what used to be a pavement that turned passers-by into targets, La Boqueria served as the perfect haven to distract ourselves from reality.
Officially known as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, which dates back to the 1200s, it is one of the top food markets in the world and a must-see food destination in Barcelona, especially if you enjoy trips off the beaten path.
The entrance of La Boqueria is very mischievous, it’s a strip tease that let’s you see and smell just enough to lure you in. Upon your first step, the overwhelming smell of cured meats engulfs your nostrils. You’re welcome to try any of them by very friendly shop attendants. Think ‘is-suq’ in Valletta in the old days. And then forget that thought because this is ten thousand times better. No offence. The décor is very au courant and even if you’re not a foodie, you become one for a few hours.
From half a metre-long crepes, to freshly squeezed passion fruit and tropical smoothies, to sushi, fresh warm pastries, vibrant aromatic spices and so much more, you can spend hours browsing through the colourful alleys of La Boqueria.
Besides your weekly shopping, the food market is dotted with tapas bars and cafes where you can stop a while to take it all in and indulge in something delicious. I really encourage you to visit if you’re heading to Barcelona some time soon. Here are a couple of photos to get your imagination going…
