Winter in Barcelona may have bright, sunny days with just a hint of chill, but in the evenings, the temperatures drop enough to want to heat things up with a cocktail and a lover. The challenge is sorting through the myriad bars and restaurants in town to find one with the right mood and setting for a date night filled with close conversations and whispered declarations of love.
La Dama
The swanky, brasserie-inspired restaurant La Dama can be found inside of the architecturally significant (and off the tourist track) Casa Sayrach. The building is definitely Gaudí-inspired, but designed by Manuel Sayrach i Carreras. La Dama feels like you are in the private home of a well-traveled bon vivant. The enticing cocktails and Mediterranean-French food match the romantic vibe of this gorgeously restored modernistic building. Go ahead and break out the LBD, sexy heels, and red lipstick for this date night.
The Wittmore
Who says British libraries can’t be sexy? Tucked in a small alley in the El Gotico, The Wittmore lounge features floor to ceiling bookshelves (yes, full of actual books), and feels more like a luxe mansion than a hotel in the middle of the city. Cocktails and creative menu available, of course. Plus, it’s an adults-only hotel, in case you want to (ahem!) check out the rooms at the end of your date night.
Collage Cocktail Bar
Despite the tourist traps and souvenir shops, treasures still can be found in the dark alleys of the El Gotico neighborhood. Tucked away in a small alley, Collage is an eclectic bar off the beaten path with two levels that make up for the otherwise small space. The bar downstairs immediately pulls you in close and if you are lucky enough to grab a seat, you will have a front-row seat to the bartenders putting on a cocktail show. Upstairs is a flirty lounge with small couches and intimate seating perfect for getting close on cold nights.
The EDITION Hotel
The EDITION Hotel has a man-in-tux charm that will have you at hola. Upstairs in the handsome Punch Room, the fireplace, cocktails, and pool table all make for the perfect setting to get your flirt on. And if you don’t want your date night to end, head downstairs to the sultry nightclub, Cabaret, with live and DJ music, glam velvet curtains, and dinner menu.
Les Gens Que J’Aime
Express your inner Moulin Rouge at the cocktails and tarot gem Les Gens Que J’Aime. Get your future read, while sipping a gin tonic. The red velvet seating, dim lighting and come-as-you-are vibe make this spot very relaxing. The bartenders are friendly and it is conveniently located just off of the Passeig de Gracia.
