The House of Windsor Rules in Barcelona

Marcelo, our hotel concierge, certainly got this right.

When in Catalunya, good food is not hard to find, but in a city where casual is the norm, somewhere with a sense of styles and sophistication is a little more of a challenge when one would like to something special.

Nestled in Eixample, you will find the Windsor, somewhere you could easily walk past without noticing. That would be a mistake.

One walks through an imposing, yet somewhat sterile vaulted entrance reminiscent of a bank that does little to indicate what is to be found inside. But that in itself may be a clue, as there is definitely treasure inside, including an internal terrace which is a wonderful surprise.

Speaking with other diners, Windsor is an apparent favourite with Hotel Concierge’s who can recommend the experience with confidence.

In the mood to taste a variety of Catalan Food, we decided to indulge with the Signature Dishes Menu of two appetisers, four half dishes and two desserts, including such delights as faux steak tartare (beetroot) and tuna belly served with white asparagus . A preset degustation menu, the restaurant was more than happy to change a dish, that contained something we did not eat. The replacement dish was outstanding.

Wines are offered by the glass should you wish to experiment, and the presentation of the wine list is an experience in itself. From the pre-technology age, the best presentation I’d previously seen was wine presented on a trolley, which allowed for small run and boutique wines to be featured in a way that a conventional wine list would preclude. Windsor presents their wines on a technological trolley, an iPad, which allows for notes and flexibility of their offering. It should be the standard by which all restaurants present their wines.

The food itself was exceptional. I’m not even going to try and describe the dishes, as I cannot do the food justice. It was just really, really good. The standard exceeds many of the self-proclaimed ’top’ restaurants in London

Pricing is at the higher end but is not unreasonable and offers good value compared to London. For that special occasion, Windsor is both a destination and a reason in itself.

I would go back to Barcelona just to eat there!