Squid ink gives this rice its striking color and a powerful oceanic umami flavor. It's packed with tender chunks of fresh cuttlefish and is served with a side of pungent, house-made alioli that provides a bright contrast.
Tips from diners
The alioli here is very strong and authentic. Mix it in slowly. It's the most flavorful rice dish they have.
True to the authentic recipe from Xàtiva (Valencia), this paella features chicken, rabbit, and local green beans (bajoqueta). It is cooked over high heat to achieve a perfect 'socarrat' and is seasoned with premium saffron and rosemary.
Tips from diners
This is the real deal. No seafood here — just the deep, savory flavors of the meat and the rosemary. Best eaten directly from the pan.
Only available in the winter and early spring, these are made using a traditional family recipe. The filling is a mixture of roasted meats (beef, pork, chicken) and the topping is a luxurious, thick bechamel sauce baked until golden.
Tips from diners
If you're here during the holidays, these are mandatory. They are as good as any you'll find at the more famous historic spots.
Instead of seafood, this fideuà uses the famous 'Fesols del Ganxet' (creamy local beans) and chunks of savory butifarra (Catalan sausage). It's a hearty, inland-style dish that showcases Catalan agricultural heritage.
Tips from diners
A great choice if you don't want seafood. The beans are remarkably creamy and the sausage is perfectly seasoned.
The rice is cooked in an extremely concentrated stock made from rockfish (peix de roca). Traditionally, the fish is eaten first and the rice after. It's a dish meant for true seafood aficionados who appreciate the purity of the stock.
Tips from diners
The rice has more flavor than any other dish because it has absorbed all that concentrated stock. It doesn't need any toppings.
Known for its commitment to traditional techniques, Arrosseria Xàtiva uses high-quality 'Riuet' bomba rice and authentic seawater-based stocks. With several locations across Barcelona, it has built a reputation as the go-to spot for locals seeking consistent, authentic rice dishes that range from the classic Valencian paella to creative modern variations.
Rice takes about 25-30 minutes to cook to order. Plan accordingly and order some starters like the croquettes while you wait.
The Gràcia location is more intimate and local, while the Sants one is larger and better for big groups or families.
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