The Best Places for Italian Food in Spain
Italy is not a country; it’s a culinary philosophy, a way of life that revolves around the table, the oven, the wok, the frying pan, and the firewood. Some say Italy is the only country where people can talk about food during a meal. Italians are the biggest fans of their own cuisine. In Spain, we may not reach the same level of appreciation, but we adore Italian food almost as much as they do. However, for many, Italian cuisine is limited to pizza and pasta, perhaps with a touch of risotto for the more adventurous. But Italian cuisine is much more than that. It’s a fascinating journey through the diversity of Italy, with each region offering unique dishes. Italian cuisine is characterized by the careful selection of the best seasonal ingredients and a dedication to traditional cooking methods. It’s a robust cuisine, yet one that’s suitable for everyone, including vegetarians and those who avoid gluten. The most discerning foodies will also appreciate the wide range of Italian wines and cheeses. The following is a list of some of the best Italian restaurants in Spain, where you can enjoy the most authentic flavors of Italy’s gastronomic regions.
NAP, Barcelona: The Best Pizza in Spain
NAP, which stands for Neapolitan Authentic Pizza, is a small chain of three restaurants in Barcelona. It offers a simple yet irresistible menu focused on the essence of Italian cuisine. The star dish is the Neapolitan pizza, which is distinguished by its thick yet airy crust, a result of a long fermentation process, typically lasting more than 24 hours. The dough is shaped by hand and topped with a minimal selection of high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, before being baked in a wood-fired oven. However, NAP is much more than a pizzeria. It offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including calzones, lasagna, and parmigiana di melanzane. The restaurant also boasts a wide selection of Italian wines and beers, perfect for pairing with any dish. And for dessert, don’t miss the homemade tiramisu. In addition to the two locations in the Born and Barceloneta neighborhoods, NAP has a takeaway-only spot on Blai Street.
Casamatta, Gran Canaria: Italian Cuisine with Views
Casamatta is a restaurant located in the heart of the Canary Islands, on the promenade of Las Canteras beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The restaurant is run by a charming Italian couple, with the husband in the kitchen and the wife managing the dining room. Their passion for traditional Italian cuisine is evident in every dish. Casamatta offers a menu that features Italian classics with a modern twist. The standout dishes include burrata with truffle, octopus carpaccio, and a variety of fresh pasta dishes, made daily in-house. The restaurant also serves a selection of pizzas, made with a light and airy dough that’s prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Desserts are not to be missed, with options like the tiramisu and homemade panna cotta. The restaurant’s wine list features a range of Italian wines, carefully curated to complement the menu. Casamatta is a place where you can enjoy the best of Italian cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
La Tagliatella, Madrid: Where Quantity Meets Quality
La Tagliatella is a well-known chain of Italian restaurants in Spain, with several locations in Madrid. What sets La Tagliatella apart is its focus on regional Italian cuisine, with dishes inspired by the flavors of Piedmont, Liguria, and Emilia Romagna. One of the highlights of dining at La Tagliatella is the generous portions. The restaurant prides itself on offering dishes that are not only delicious but also satisfying. The menu features a wide range of options, including pizzas, pastas, risottos, and meats. Each dish is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and is designed to bring out the authentic flavors of Italy. The restaurant also offers a variety of starters, such as bruschetta and carpaccio, which are perfect for sharing. Desserts are another highlight, with options like the classic tiramisu and panna cotta. La Tagliatella is a great choice for those looking to indulge in Italian cuisine without breaking the bank.
Trattoria Sant Arcangelo, Madrid: A Cozy Italian Hideaway
Trattoria Sant Arcangelo is a cozy Italian restaurant located near the Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid. The restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. The menu at Trattoria Sant Arcangelo features a wide range of Italian dishes, from classic pasta and risotto to meat and fish dishes. The restaurant is also famous for its wood-fired pizzas, which are made with a thin and crispy crust and topped with fresh ingredients. One of the standout dishes is the tagliatelle alla boscaiola, a rich and flavorful pasta dish made with porcini mushrooms, sausage, and truffle oil. The restaurant also offers a selection of Italian wines, carefully chosen to complement the menu. Desserts are a must-try, with options like the tiramisu and chocolate fondant. Trattoria Sant Arcangelo is a hidden gem in the heart of Madrid, offering a true taste of Italy.
L’Anima de Gran Via, Barcelona: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of the City
L’Anima de Gran Via is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of Barcelona, near the famous Gran Via. The restaurant is known for its modern take on traditional Italian cuisine, with a menu that features a mix of classic and contemporary dishes. The star of the menu is the fresh pasta, which is made daily in-house and served with a variety of sauces. One of the standout dishes is the ravioli di ricotta e spinaci, a delicate pasta dish filled with ricotta cheese and spinach, served with a butter and sage sauce. The restaurant also offers a selection of pizzas, risottos, and meat dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The wine list features a range of Italian wines, carefully chosen to complement the menu. Desserts are also a highlight, with options like the tiramisu and panna cotta. L’Anima de Gran Via is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a taste of Italy in the heart of Barcelona.
A Culinary Tour of Italy in Spain
Italy is a country of endless culinary delights, where every region has its own unique flavors and dishes. From the rich and hearty cuisine of the north to the fresh and vibrant flavors of the south, Italian cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. The best Italian restaurants in Spain offer a taste of this diversity, with menus that showcase the finest ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pizza or a more adventurous dish, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for Italian food. So why not take a culinary tour of Italy without leaving Spain?
