If there’s something that makes a trip unforgettable is the food. And if we’re talking about gastronomy, Europe is a paradise for everyone who loves great flavors. In this gastronomical route, we will explore three cities that are real treasures: Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona. Here you will not only eat delicious food but you’ll find that every dish has a story, tradition, and a piece of each place’s soul. Where to eat in Europe? From the pastel de nata in Lisbon to the tapas in Madrid and the paellas in Barcelona, each city offers a unique culinary experience. So, if you’re hungry (for food and adventure), get ready for this delicious route.
LISBON: A FEAST WITH THE FLAVOR OF THE SEA
Lisbon is a place synonymous with good food and spectacular views. If there’s something you can’t miss, it’s their bacalao. It is said that the Portuguese have over 365 ways of making it, one for each day of the year. The most famous version is the “bacalhau à brás”, an incredible mix of flaked bacalao, fried potatoes, and scrambled eggs. It is a delicious dish.
El cocinero casero
For those with a sweet tooth, the pastel de nata is an absolute must. These little puff pastries filled with custard cream are the pride of the city. Pair them with a strong coffee and enjoy life like a true Lisboeta.
And if you’re looking for something more authentic, get lost in a traditional “Tasca” and try the caldo verde (green broth), a hearty soup with kale and chorizo that feels just right in your stomach, perfect for recharging before heading back out to explore.
MADRID: TAPAS, TRADITION, AND GOOD WINE
In Madrid, food is a social experience. Here it’s not only about feeding yourself, but also about sharing, talking, and enjoying with no rush. The gastronomical route in Madrid starts with some good tapas. Is it a traditional bar and ask for an order of patatas bravas, crunchy on the outside and drenched in a slightly spicy sauce that will have you coming back for more.
But if there’s a star dish in the Spanish capital, it is the calamari sandwich. It seems simple, but the combination of fried calamari and crunchy bread is a delicious mix of flavors that you can’t miss.
And of course, you can’t leave without trying the classic cocido madrileño. This chickpea stew with meat and vegetables is the king of Madrid’s cuisine and an excellent option for cold days. If you want to end on a high note, a hot chocolate with churros at San Ginés is the perfect way to wrap up the day.
BARCELONA: A MEDITERRANEAN FEAST
Barcelona is a city that you have to experience with the five senses, and its food is not the exception. Here, the Mediterranean food shines on its own light, and it all starts with a good paella. Although the most popular version is the seafood paella, you can also try the meat or mixed one. However, make sure you eat it in a good restaurant, no frozen paellas for tourists.
Another unmissable dish is tomato bread. It may seem like a simple dish, but when done correctly, with a slice of crunchy bread, with ripe tomatoes, and a good amount of olive oil, it becomes a masterpiece.
For seafood lovers, the calçots (a type of tender grilled onion) with romesco sauce are a unique experience. They’re eaten with your hands, and there’s an entire ritual surrounding their preparation.
El Nacional.cat
And if you want something sweet, Crema Catalana is the perfect dessert. It is similar to crème brûlée, but with a citric and spiced touch that makes it irresistible.
HUNGRY FOR ADVENTURE?
This gastronomical route across Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona is only an insight into what European food offers. Each dish has a story, and every bite is a way of knowing the culture of the cities. So if you have the opportunity to travel, don’t think twice and try everything you can. Enjoy!