Barcelona

Flamenco, Fare and Flair

by F. Duncan Reyes

As stylish, whimsical and sophisticated as the city of San Francisco, Barcelona is an opulent new restaurant offering nothing but the finest in contemporary Spanish and Catalan cuisine. Located in the heart of the financial district, this perennial hot spot is the pride and joy of owners Gigi Hong, and the renowned Giovanni, “The Margarita King” who for many years has retained the title (and legal namesake) for creating California’s most sensational Margarita libations.

Barcelona makes a splash with its modern Catalonian decor of vibrant colors and lavish design by renowned artists Jane and Bob Mack. It’s replete with tile mosaic wainscoting on the exterior as well as the hand-painted motifs and tantalizing reproductions of artful masterpieces from Dali, Miro, El Greco and Picasso, that embrace its exquisite dark wood enhancements throughout the interior. The well-appointed bar is distinctively situated next to a romantic lounge and its dimly lit main dining room with an eclectic array of furnishings of unparalleled elegance and intimacy.

The ambiance will seduce you as much as the uncompromising fare, showcased by the talented culinary ingenuity of Chef Grenet Xavier. His awe-inspiring cuisine is masterfully prepared from traditional centuries-old recipes to create his very own innovative interpretation. Impressive credentials stem from training with his mentor, the acclaimed French chef Joel Robuchon of Jamin Restaurant in Paris. He was awarded as one of the three chefs in the world elected “Chef of the Century”, and the first chef in Europe to earn three Michelin stars in just three years.

From these remarkable accolades, a sumptuous dinner awaits for the most discerning palate. Partake in beguiling delicacies starting with splendid choices of Tapas, or Appetizers. I highly recommend the indulgent Canape de Vieras y Caviar ($7.95), sliced scallops marinated in lime, caviar, diced shallots and cucumber. Other appealing dishes are the Tortilla Campesina ($5.95), Spanish-style potato omelette with spinach and tomatoes served with alioli, and the Mejillones al Vapor ($6.95), Cantabrian steamed mussels in white wine, garlic and rosemary. Among their “must-have” entrees is the quintessential Paella Valenciana ($22.95) stewed with scampi, mussels, clams, squid, monkfish, scallops, prawns and chicken in saffron rice. Its favorite contender, the Zarzuela ($15.95), a seafood stew prepared Catalan style with fennel and tomatoes in a light saffron cava-flavored fish broth, will entice all the senses. Dessert lovers should save some room for mouthwatering sweets, and few can resist the Flan de Caramel and Orange Confit ($6.00), and the Caramelized Peaches with Vanilla Mousse and Meringue ($6.50) - both sinful treats for an appropriate finale. Their well-chosen wine list boasts a unique selection of Spanish vintages to complement your meal. On top of the crimson heap, savor the Rioja, Crianza, Sierra Cantabria 1996 ($26.00) or the crisp and scintillating white variety of Vina Godeval, Bodegas Godeval, Valdeorras 1998 ($32.00).

For foot-stomping, heart-pumping, hand-clapping entertainment, you will be seductively enchanted and fascinated by a fabulous Flamenco performance every Friday and Saturday evenings. For private functions, there is the Sevilla Room which holds up to one hundred-ten guests for a sit-down dinner and up to two hundred for cocktails and tapas. This quaint gem promises nothing but personalized service from a dedicated and professional waitstaff who are sure to exceed the expectations of even the most discriminating patron. Setting style and panache, attentive service and award-winning menus - this sensational dining mecca will leave you breathless to say “Si, Si!” … that’s Barcelona!

Barcelona, 7 Spring Street, San Francisco, California, 415.989.1976