Until recently, Sants, a former textile manufacturing hub, was known for being home to Barcelona’s main train station, a public park, some dingy bars, and … not much else. With city center rents skyrocketing, however, hip creatives have begun flooding in, and the opening of a new Nobu hotel has put the area on tourists’ radar. Here, five locals tell us why Sants is Barcelona’s next great neighborhood.
This Bar
“Most bars in Sants are full of locals, but people come to La Mundana from all over Barcelona. It’s a trendy spot, serving tasty modern dishes made for sharing, as well as natural wine and vermouth,” says Bodega Montferry co-owner Marc Miñarro Garcia.
These Ceramics
“Based out of her tiny workshop, Ester Artajo creates custom-made ceramics, including all the plates for La Mundana,” says its chef and owner Marc Martin Gomez. “They’re a visual and sensory treat for anyone who gets to eat off them. Ester doesn’t have a store, but get in touch via email or Instagram to place an order or schedule a visit.”
This Store
Ceramic artist Ester Artajo recommends Saüc. “If you’re looking for sustainable design in Sants, Saüc is the place to go,” she says. “It’s a laid-back neighborhood store that specializes in planet-friendly clothes and accessories, made in a responsible way by local artisans.”
This Restaurant
“Petit Pau is the kind of fine-dining spot that everyone wishes was in their neighborhood,” says Saüc owner Natàlia Agramunt. “Cozy and unpretentious, it serves creative takes on Mediterranean cuisine. Choose between a four- and six-course tasting menu, all based on fresh, in-season produce.”
This Sandwich
Petit Pau chef and owner Pau Gascó Bel recommends Bodega Montferry. “It’s like the old-school wine bars I remember from when I was a kid, but a cleaner, contemporary version, redesigned by a new generation of wine lovers. Don’t miss the sandwich of the day—it’ll get your morning off to a good start,” he says.
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