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Located in the Eixample district (Mallorca, 96), this charming restaurant specializes in crafting dishes that are pure temptation, turning any gourmet into “a person who eats a lot,” as defined by the Royal Spanish Academy.
The talent and warmth of Pablo Romero, the owner and chef, shine through in every dish and suggestion, which changes every Thursday. With experience from prestigious establishments like Via Veneto, Evo, Neichel, and Igueldo, plus five years in London and one in Sydney, Romero creates playful, delightful, and flavorful dishes. His cuisine emphasizes quality ingredients at reasonable prices, all guided by the principle: “forbidden to be boring.”
Romero’s joy in cooking extends to the entire dining experience, which is why he designed the kitchen, situated at the end of the typical Eixample tunnel-like space, to be visible from every table. The informal and playful spirit of Tragaldabas is also reflected in the decor by architect Andrés Paredes and in the sculptures strategically placed by Marcos Romero, Pablo’s brother.
Food Review: Tragaldabas
Appetizers:
Red Anchovy “00” with Smoked Butter (5€):
A delightful start to the meal, the red anchovy “00” paired with smoked butter is a harmonious blend of flavors. The rich, smoky butter complements the delicate, salty anchovy perfectly, creating a memorable appetizer that sets high expectations for the rest of the meal.
Premium Beef “Jamón” with Pistachios (14.5€):
This dish offers a luxurious twist on traditional charcuterie. The premium beef “jamón” is melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the pistachios adding a pleasing crunch and nutty flavor. It’s an excellent choice for meat lovers looking for something refined yet satisfying.
Octopus and Kimchi Russian Salad (9.5€):
A creative fusion dish, the octopus and kimchi Russian salad is a refreshing and tangy appetizer. The tender octopus pairs well with the spicy kick of the kimchi, while the creamy dressing ties all the elements together. It’s a unique and flavorful option that stands out on the menu.
Main Course:
Ribeye on the Bone Dry Aged 30 Days (70€/kg):
The ribeye on the bone, dry-aged for 30 days, is a standout main course. The aging process intensifies the beef’s flavor, resulting in a deeply savory and succulent steak. Cooked to perfection, it boasts a rich marbling that melts in your mouth, making it worth every euro for steak aficionados.
Dessert:
French Toast Brioche with Vanilla Ice Cream (9.5€):
The French toast brioche with vanilla ice cream is a decadent way to end the meal. The brioche is perfectly caramelized on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. Paired with the creamy vanilla ice cream, it’s a sweet and indulgent treat that leaves a lasting impression.
Overall, Tragaldabas offers a well-curated menu with each dish crafted to deliver a memorable dining experience. The appetizers set the tone with innovative flavors, the main course impresses with its quality and execution, and the dessert provides a satisfying conclusion to the meal.
The ambiance at Tragaldabas is as important as the food. Every detail is meticulously planned, and there is even a small private dining room for gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues. The background music is suitable for all ears, creating a perfect setting for a relaxed meal.
With an average price of around 40€ per person, Tragaldabas offers excellent value for money. This gastronomic venture expands the horizons of traditional, ingredient-focused cuisine with well-executed and stimulating international influences.
**Restaurant Tragaldabas address: **C/ de Mallorca, 96, L’Eixample, 08029 Barcelona
**Restaurant Tragaldabas menu: **https://tragaldabasrestaurante.com/en/menu/
**Restaurant Tragaldabas website: **https://tragaldabasrestaurante.com/en/
Where It Is
Tragaldabas is on Carrer de Mallorca in the left side of the Eixample (the “Esquerra de l’Eixample”), a residential area with a strong local dining scene. It is less touristy than the streets around Passeig de Gràcia, which makes it a good choice if you want a neighbourhood restaurant rather than a sightseeing stop.
- Metro: Several stations on lines L1 and L5 are within walking distance. A map app will show you the nearest one from where you start.
- On foot: The area is flat and easy to walk, and Plaça d’Espanya and Sant Antoni market are not far away.
- Taxi: Easy to find on the main avenues of the Eixample.
What “Tragaldabas” Means
In Spanish, “tragaldabas” is a colloquial word for someone who eats a lot, a glutton. It is a playful name that fits the restaurant’s spirit of generous, fun cooking without being boring.
About the Eixample Food Scene
The Eixample was built in the 19th century as Barcelona’s expansion beyond the old city walls. Its long, deep ground-floor spaces, often described as “tunnel-like”, have become home to many restaurants. Kitchens at the back, a long dining room and a street-facing front are a typical layout, just like at Tragaldabas.
The area is known for:
- Market-driven restaurants that change their suggestions often.
- Modern Spanish cooking with international influences.
- Good-value lunch menus on weekdays (“menú del día”), common across the neighbourhood.
What Is Dry-Aged Beef?
Dry ageing means storing beef in a controlled, cold, ventilated room for weeks. During this time, moisture evaporates and natural enzymes break down the muscle, which concentrates flavour and makes the meat more tender. Thirty days is a common ageing period, while some restaurants go much longer for a stronger, nuttier taste.
Steaks priced per kilo are common in Spain. A bone-in ribeye is usually large, so it is often ordered to share.
Tips for Your Visit
- Ask about the weekly suggestions. The off-menu dishes change regularly.
- Book ahead for weekend dinners. Neighbourhood favourites fill up quickly.
- Share the starters so you can try more of the creative dishes.
- Ask about the private room if you are planning a group meal.
- Check current hours and prices on the website before you go, as menus and prices change over time.
What to Do Nearby
- Mercat de Sant Antoni: A beautifully restored market hall with a Sunday book and collectors’ market.
- Carrer del Parlament: A street full of cafés and bars in Sant Antoni.
- Plaça d’Espanya and Montjuïc: For the Magic Fountain area, the MNAC and green walks.
- Passeig de Gràcia: For Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, further east.
More photos
FAQ
Where is Tragaldabas? At Carrer de Mallorca, 96, in the Eixample district of Barcelona.
What kind of food does it serve? Creative Spanish cuisine with international touches, built around quality ingredients.
Is it good for steak? The menu includes dry-aged beef such as bone-in ribeye, sold by weight.
Do the dishes change? Yes. The chef’s suggestions change weekly.
Is there a private dining room? There is a small private room for groups. Ask when booking.
Is it expensive? It is generally considered good value for the quality. Check the current menu for prices.
