Paco Pérez—with five Michelin stars—is on of Catalonia’s most internationally recognized chefs. Two of the coveted stars are credited to his excellent work at Barcelona’s renowned Enoteca restaurant. Review our selection of international restaurants.
Chef Paco Pérez.
This legendary eatery in the Catalan capital is housed in the emblematic Hotel Arts Barcelona, next to architect Frank Gehry‘s monumental 1992 golden fish sculpture at the Olympic Port. The successful chef creates sophisticated dishes with classic Mediterranean flair. His innovative preparations highlight the freshness of the products, with a particular predilection for the fish and seafood that come from the waters just a few meters from the restaurant.
The careful and efficient work of the professionals in Pérez’s team, the excellent service, and the outstanding work of the sommelier—whose cellar holds between 500 and 700-labels—have earned the restaurant two Michelin stars: the first in 2009; and the second more recently in 2012.
In 2011, the main dining room was remodeled and redesigned by the firm of architects GCA—the same studio in charge of the construction of the hotel in 1993. That restyling gave the new Enoteca a relaxed and elegant imprint with light colors and smooth textures, blonde wood floors, and simple but elegant furnishings.
Its splendid glass windows and terrace lead the eye towards spectacular views of the city, and the impressive shelves display products used in the preparation of the dishes as well as some house wines. The ambiance is relaxed and comfortable and evokes a family home kitchen, in synch with Pérez‘s classic style.
Barcelona is one of the most privileged gastronomic enclaves on the planet, and Enoteca is the perfect venue to enjoy excellent Mediterranean dishes, such as the kokotxas (the lower part of a hake`s chin), bluefin tuna, eel as well as octopus, sole, grouper and Iberian ham, among other delicacies—all perfectly paired with exquisite wines.
Undoubtedly, Paco Perez’s Enoteca restaurant is a luxurious culinary experience that adds one more reason to visit the vibrant capital of Catalonia. ■
