Overall rating ★★★★ │Mediterranean│30 Eur pp│Eixample, Barcelona
Service: ★★★★│Food: ★★★★│Location: ★★★★│Price: ★★★★│Portions: ★★★★
La Balabusta isn’t just another restaurant in Barcelona—it’s an experience. A lively mix of Israeli flavors and Mediterranean influences, this restaurant is the brainchild of chef Ronit Stern, who has successfully created a space that feels both exciting and welcoming. Whether you’re drawn in by the tempting aroma of grilled meats, the vibrant atmosphere, or the promise of handmade bread fresh from the oven, this place delivers on all fronts.
A Blend of Cultures on the Plate
Rather than trying to replicate Tel Aviv’s food scene, La Balabusta brings Middle Eastern flavors together with Barcelona’s local ingredients and culinary traditions. The result? Dishes that feel familiar yet excitingly different.
The restaurant is known for its bold, veggie-friendly options, crispy fried delicacies, and slow-cooked meats that arrive on simple trays lined with baking parchment—casual yet refined. The menu is cleverly designed to offer a mix of small plates and more substantial dishes, making it ideal for sharing with friends.
During my visit, I had the chance to try some standout dishes that perfectly captured the restaurant’s identity.
The Dishes We Tried
Fried Feta Millefeuille with Chili Honey, Sesame, and Citrus (16.5€)
This dish is a masterclass in contrast—crispy and flaky on the outside, creamy and salty on the inside. The feta is stacked into delicate layers, fried to perfection, and topped with sweet chili honey and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The citrus adds a fresh zing that cuts through the richness, making every bite addictive. If you love the combination of sweet and savory, this is a must-order.
Barbecue Chicken Skewers, Baby Potatoes, Sage, and Lemon (26.5€)
Perfectly charred, juicy, and packed with flavor, these chicken skewers were an absolute highlight. The smoky, slightly crispy exterior gave way to tender, well-seasoned meat. Served alongside roasted baby potatoes, fresh sage, and a squeeze of lemon, the dish felt hearty yet balanced. The simplicity of the ingredients let the quality of the cooking shine.
Grilled Broccoli, Tahini, and Chili Sauce (16€)
Grilled vegetables might sound simple, but when done right, they can be just as satisfying as a main course. The broccoli at La Balabusta was deeply charred, bringing out its natural sweetness, while the tahini added a creamy, nutty richness. The chili sauce brought just enough heat to keep things interesting. It was the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you don’t eat more broccoli.
Handmade Bread: The Unspoken Star
Before we even got to the main dishes, we were served a basket of handmade bread. Soft on the inside, with a slightly chewy crust, this bread was pure perfection. Paired with olive oil, dips, or just enjoyed on its own, it was a simple yet essential part of the meal. Bread this good deserves its own mention—it’s reason enough to visit.
Drinks to Match the Food
La Balabusta’s drinks menu is just as thoughtful as its food. Among the standout options was the Campari Night (13.5€)—a cocktail featuring Campari, orange, and tarragon. The bitterness of the Campari was beautifully balanced by the citrus and the fresh herbal notes from the tarragon. It was refreshing, slightly bitter, and the perfect drink to complement the bold flavors of the meal.
The Atmosphere: Vibrant, Lively, and Inviting
Walking into La Balabusta, you immediately feel the energy of the place. The restaurant is bright and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. It sits on a corner in Barcelona’s Eixample district, a neighborhood known for its mix of modernist architecture and trendy dining spots.
The walls are deliberately distressed, giving the space a rustic yet stylish feel. Unlike many restaurants where tables are meticulously set, here, cutlery is placed in the middle of the table, inviting diners to serve themselves—a small but intentional detail that adds to the casual, communal vibe.
The open kitchen lets you hear and smell the magic as it happens. The sounds of sizzling pans, the clatter of aluminum trays, and the occasional burst of laughter from the chefs make you feel part of something vibrant and real.
Why You Should Visit La Balabusta
La Balabusta isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, communal dining, and culinary craftsmanship. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your must-visit list in Barcelona:
A Unique Take on Israeli Cuisine – It’s not a straightforward replica of Middle Eastern food; instead, it blends local and international influences in an exciting way.
Perfect for Sharing – The menu is designed for group dining, making it ideal for an evening out with friends or family.
High-Quality Ingredients – From the freshest vegetables to carefully sourced meats, the emphasis on quality is clear in every bite.
A Lively, Social Atmosphere – The buzz of conversation, the open kitchen, and the mix of locals and travelers create an environment that’s fun, casual, and full of life.
Practical Information
Location: C/ del Rosselló, 180, 08008 Barcelona
Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Thu-Sat: 1:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Sun: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Cuisine: Israeli/Middle Eastern with Mediterranean influences
Best for: Dinner with friends, casual dates, or a fun night out
Final Thoughts
Dining at La Balabusta is like taking a journey through flavors—one that surprises, excites, and satisfies. From the crispy Fried Feta Millefeuille to the smoky Grilled Broccoli, every dish is crafted with intention.
The balance between Israeli traditions and Barcelona’s local flavors makes this spot truly special. Whether you’re sipping on a Campari Night cocktail or tearing into handmade bread, every bite feels like part of a bigger experience—one that lingers long after you leave.
If you love bold, beautifully executed food in a space that feels effortlessly cool, La Balabusta is a restaurant you won’t want to miss.
FAQs
1. Do I need a reservation?It’s recommended, especially for dinner, as La Balabusta tends to fill up quickly.
2. Are there vegetarian options?Yes! The menu includes plenty of vegetarian-friendly dishes like Grilled Broccoli with Tahini and Fried Feta Millefeuille.
3. What’s the price range?Dishes range from 16€–30€, making it a mid-range dining spot.
4. Is there outdoor seating?No, but the large windows and airy space make for a pleasant indoor dining experience.
5. What’s the best dish to try?If you can only pick one, go for the Fried Feta Millefeuille—it’s crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor.
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