Barcelona, Spain

Review: Cafè de l’Arquitecte

The Mediterranean • Eat & drink • Review: Cafè de l’Arquitecte in Barcelona, Spain

What is the restaurant in a nutshell?

In the former home and studio of Barcelona architect Enric Sagnier, Hotel Casa Sagnier’s Cafè de l’Arquitecte makes its mark as a restaurant with purpose. Designed by Turull-Sørensen Architects, the space combines dark wood, vintage bookshelves and abstract murals with thoughtful nods to Sagnier’s legacy – his bust and workshop details feature throughout. It’s elegant without being stiff, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Eixample and a crowd that mixes tourists, a large Spanish family, and a local older man who seemed to have dropped by in his loungewear. Chef Jorge Aranda’s Mediterranean menu focuses on seasonal, high-quality ingredients, offering everything from a morning coffee to a refined evening meal.

What are the signature dishes?

We started with the homemade 100% Iberian ham croquette – crisp, golden perfection on the outside, creamy and full of flavour within. Simple, yes, but executed so well it set the tone for the rest of the meal.

A rice dish to remember

The cuttlefish rice with roasted garlic aioli was the highlight of our Sunday lunch. The pan was brought out as it should be, placed on a stand by the table, then mixed and served in front of us. Rich, deeply savoury and perfectly cooked, it delivered layers of flavour without being overwhelming. The addition of grilled baby cuttlefish brought texture and balance to the dish – this is one to share and savour (note: it’s for two people minimum).

What else is on the menu?

Chef Aranda’s Mediterranean menu is tightly focused and seasonal, blending local ingredients with refined techniques. Lunch and dinner offer highlights like the hand-made pappardelle with seasonal mushrooms, the open tortilla with sobrasada ibérica and fresh wild turbot with celeriac parmentier. For those who love a strong finish, desserts like the tiramisù with coffee ice cream or the chocolate fondant with toasted white chocolate ice cream are hard to resist.

Don’t skip breakfast

Breakfast here is well worth the visit. The menu balances indulgence and simplicity, with perfectly baked pastries, tortilla sandwiches, and high-quality coffee. Whether you’re a guest at the hotel or just passing by, it’s the kind of breakfast that leaves an impression.

Drinks, anyone?

The drinks menu at Cafè de l’Arquitecte holds its own alongside the food. The wine selection focuses on quality, with a particular spotlight on local and Spanish producers. Bottles like Missatge en una Ampolla offer the perfect pairing for the Mediterranean-inspired dishes – elegant, structured and thoughtfully chosen.

Signature sips

For cocktails, the list balances classics with house creations. The Sagnier House 1796, made with Santa Teresa rum, smoked cinnamon and tropical fruit juices, is a standout. The spritz options add a fresh touch, with the Barcelona Spritz – Martini Fiero, St. Germain and cava – standing out for its light, floral finish. Other highlights include a sharp Hazelnut Espresso Martini and the citrusy Hugo Spritz.

What’s our final take?

Cafè de l’Arquitecte gets a lot right. Chef Jorge Aranda’s menu delivers bold, confident flavours – crisp Iberian ham croquettes, cuttlefish rice plated tableside with just the right amount of ceremony and well-judged desserts. The drinks hold their own, with thoughtful wines and cocktails like the Sagnier House 1796 that hit all the right notes. The design, blending period details with modern elegance, creates a space that feels polished without pretension. Add sweet, attentive service, and you have a restaurant that works effortlessly from morning to evening. It’s somewhere to settle in, enjoy the details and leave feeling genuinely well looked after.

What’s the city like?

Barcelona is a vibrant and dynamic city that promises to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, Barcelona offers a unique blend of history, art and entertainment. Explore the iconic landmarks of Antoni Gaudí, wander the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter or soak up the sun on the city’s Mediterranean beaches. The city also boasts a lively music scene, excellent museums and a thriving food culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a perfect mix of culture and entertainment. Whether you’re enjoying the lively nightlife, savouring the delicious tapas, or simply taking in the city’s unique charm and beauty, Barcelona is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you enchanted and inspired.