City Guide

Xavier Zazo and Clara Brull: Our Barcelona

Xavier Zazo and Clara Brull

Where were you born?

Xavier in Figueres, Clara in Vic.

Where do you live?

Barcelona.

What’s best about your neighbourhood?

The tranquillity and the fact that it hasn’t lost its essence of being a neighbourhood.

If money was no object, where would you live?

Close to Plaça de Sant Felip Neri; the magic and energy which surround this place are incredible.

Which is your favourite Barcelona neighbourhood?

We love Barceloneta for the atmosphere and its closeness to the sea.

Which are your favourite Barcelona stores?

Gentz Suarez on Carrer de la Vidrieria in the Born area of town, for its beautiful shoes and accessories; La Basílica on Carrer de Sant Sever, where you can find contemporary and creative jewellery; Bubó, an exquisite modern patisserie on Carrer del Bruc in the Born area.

And your favourite restaurants?

Embat on Carrer de Mallorca for individual and accessible cuisine; Teranga in el Born, a Senegalese restaurant where the food is well-priced and delicious; Dos Palillos on Carrer d’Elisabets, the best Japanese restaurant in Barcelona, where you can eat in an original and lovely atmosphere.

Do you have a favourite local pub?

The terrace of the Olivia Plaza hotel is perfect for a quiet drink in beautiful surroundings. The hotel is located on Plaça Catalunya but once you step inside, you wouldn’t think you were in such a central part of the city.

Any recommendations for local dishes to try?

If you visit Catalunya you can’t stop eating pan con tomate (tomato bread) or cold meats or exquisite Catalán seafood. You can find these types of restaurants in Barceloneta.

Where do you take out-of-town friends?

Around the parks of Montjuic to admire the best views of the city.

Where do you like to celebrate?

We don’t have a set place. We tend to find a great activity which the city can offer us, like concerts, exhibitions or simply a meal out.

Do you have a favourite walk in Barcelona?

Walking without a clear route as there is so much to see in Barcelona. Simply admire the buildings and the atmosphere of certain streets.

How do you like to travel around the city?

On foot.

Which is the best city landmark, building or attraction?

The cathedral and walking around the Gothic quarter. We would recommend a guided tour of the Gothic quarter, where you can find out all about the history of the neighbourhood and the city.

Which do you think is the best museum in Barcelona?

The CaixaForum Barcelona.

Which person from Barcelona do you most admire?

Joan Manuel Serrat, a timeless singer-songwriter and poet.

Can you reveal any secret spots?

The Plaça de Sant Felip Neri is an oasis in the centre of the city.

Where are the best bargains to be found?

At Encants, a market which takes place three days a week near les Glòries.

Any advice for visitors?

Walk around the less touristy neighbourhoods like Dreta de l’Eixample. The modernist route is a great excuse to walk.

Can you recommend any good hotels?

There are lots. The 987 on Carrer de Mallorca, for example, is central but quiet. Or the Barceló Raval on Rambla del Raval for those who want to stay in the old part of town.

What can’t you live without?

We couldn’t live without imagination.

Tell us a secret.

Muses don’t exist, work and consistency are what makes you grow.

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