A large Mediterranean oyster is topped with a warm, liquid reduction of premium beef fat and a sprinkle of numbing Szechuan pepper. The fatty richness of the beef perfectly balances the saline minerality of the oyster, while the pepper provides a surprising, cleansing tingle.
Tips from diners
The pepper is the secret ingredient. It makes your tongue feel 'buzzing' which makes the oyster taste even sweeter. A brilliant technical bite.
Frequently cited as one of the best desserts in Barcelona. A light, airy cheesecake made with premium local goat cheese is cold-smoked to provide a subtle campfire aroma. It's served with a reduction of wild mountain berries. The smoke elevates the tanginess of the cheese in a startlingly effective way.
Tips from diners
Even if you're full, you MUST order this. The smoke is so delicate, not overwhelming at all. It's unlike any other cheesecake in the city.
Fresh squid from the Boqueria is flash-fried and served with a house-made, 4-week aged kimchi. The acidity and spice of the cabbage cuts through the sweetness of the squid perfectly. It highlights the Asian influences that define the restaurant.
Tips from diners
The kimchi has a real kick! It's much better than the standard bravas you find elsewhere. The squid is incredibly tender.
Large scallops are seared to a perfect golden brown and served over a silky, white cauliflower puree. It is finished with a dusting of bitter cocoa powder and a drizzle of nut oil. A perfect example of Muñío's ability to blend unexpected flavors.
Tips from diners
The cocoa sounds weird but it works amazingly well with the sweetness of the scallop. One of their most consistent and popular dishes.
Duck breast is slow-roasted until pink and served with a concentrated, house-made hoisin sauce. It is finished with a dusting of toasted hazelnuts from the nearby Baix Camp region, adding a local Catalan nutty crunch to the Asian classic.
Tips from diners
The hazelnuts are a great touch. It bridges the gap between Asian and Catalan flavors perfectly. A must for meat eaters.
Directed by Arnau Muñío (formerly of Comerç 24), Direkte Boqueria is one of the city's best-kept secrets. Located in a tiny space just meters from the world's most famous food market, it offers the ultimate 'market kitchen' experience. Guests sit around the chef as he prepares a menu of technically complex, Asian-influenced Catalan tapas using whatever was freshest at the market that morning.
There are only 8-10 seats and they are almost always booked. Book at least 4-6 weeks in advance via their website. It's a very intimate experience.
The restaurant is hidden in a small doorway tucked behind the market. Don't look for a big sign — just look for the numbers on the street and the small 'Direkte' plaque.
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