Nestled on the busy street of Gran Via de les cortes, just off the famous avenue in Barcelona, Passeig de Gracia lies the newly establish Crudo Bar. You can walk up and down the street a dozen times, looking for something different, if you’re sick of microwaved Paella, or Bocodillos. Imagine my delight walking past Crudo Bar, even the name caught my attention, for those who speak Spanish Crudo means “raw” and it got me interested. Being a newly established venue its appearance is modern and charming, a narrow room with a mezzanine level overlooking the bar. But it’s the Crudo concept, it’s so unique. I must admit, It was my first time trying this type of cuisine & with no prior expectations to fall back on, But I was pleasantly surprised by my dining experience.
So where do I start? If you’re a seafood lover, look no further. Being the Crudo style, the selection and quality are paramount, and the quality is evident in the first taste. I tried the Ceviche with Red Tuna, and a coconut sauce, not a traditional way, by my word it exceeded my expectations like I said the quality of the produce elevates it into a fantastic dish, each bite was utterly enjoyable. I sided this with a Catalan favorite, Patatas Bravas. Once again putting their take on things, and once again I find myself intrigued by their style and method. Now it was a hot day, I’ve had a busy week and was time to wind down with a beer, and to my glee, I noticed they have their own Ale bottled here in Spain, in the Flagship venue in Valencia. I was interested when the bottle said “hecho con agua de mar” or made with salt water, okay I never tried such a beverage & I never shy away from new things so yep, one Crudo Ale thanks. Don’t worry it doesn’t taste like salt water, It has a hint of a salty texture but it illuminates the hoppy flavor and takes away the bitterness, For a craft beer lover, you have to try for yourself, I’m confident you’ll enjoy a different texture and taste. Okay time for dessert, and after living in Spain for a while now, I simply always get the Torrija de Chocolate and let me just say, I have if you haven’t tried one yet, get down here asap. Honestly speaking, it’s the best one I’ve had. It’s a masterpiece, think Spanish-style French toast, topped with ice-cream and covered with homemade Chocolate sauce, I dream of it every night.
Okay time for dessert, and after living in Spain for a while now, I simply always get the Torrija de Chocolate and let me just say, I have if you haven’t tried one yet, get down here asap. Honestly speaking, it’s the best one I’ve had. It’s a masterpiece, think Spanish-style French toast, topped with ice-cream and covered with homemade Chocolate sauce, I dream of it every night.
Lunchtime Menu Del Dia, 13.50E is on the money for a quality establishment. An example would be a selection of a Duck Ham & Potato salad mixed with artichokes, or Fresh croquetas, or maybe something light like a Salmorejo (cold tomato soup) with small bites of Iberico Jamon. For the main think of Paella style seafood rice, (remember the quality of the seafood) or Tataki Tuna on a bed of sauteed vegetables, or the mouth-watering Entrana steak with chimichurri sauce, is simply delicious if you still have room a selection of desserts to choose from. Bread & drink included for 13,50 is right on the money. For groups of more than 10, you book a big table upstairs in the mezzanine area where a set menu for 23E pp will leaving full & completely satisfied.
Service was impeccable, a delight to dine there. As I mentioned a new establishment has that modern feel to it, looking out onto Gran Via de les cortes. If you’re after a different dining experience with quality produce, Come give it try, you’ll leave with a new experience and concept. Or maybe swing past at happy hour for the cocktails, (6-8pm) and enjoy a well-crafted beverage for 5E, But seriously try the house made beer, I’m looking forward to my next one.
Thank you very much to the team at Crudo bar.
Luke Paull
