A Master of Gastronomy, Olivia loves to explore the many foodie haunts in the city of Barcelona. She shares her secrets—from delicious local cuisine to restaurants off the beaten path—with Felix Magazine.
Destination… Barcelona
Favorite Place to Stay… Hotel Omm
Travel Companion… My wonderful fiancé and best friend
Favorite travel pastimes… Walking is the best way to see, feel and experience everything– to really connect with a destination on every level – seeking out local food trails, special dining experiences, fabulous shopping and of course seeing the sites!
How being a food and wine specialist influences my experiences… I love learning about different places and cultures… and for me, food and drink are elements that really awaken my senses and reveal remarkable tales throughout history reflecting different ways of life, influences whether geographic, climate or political, traditions and religion.
Best place for local cuisine… I love visiting fresh produce markets – Mercat de Sant Josep de La Boqueria and also Mercat de Santa Caterina (more modern and a little pricier), both are excellent.
A little history on the food and impact on the region’s society… Catalan cuisine relates to the local produce and traditional dishes from the region of Catalonia – comprising of four provinces: Barcelona (the largest), Girona, Lleida and Tarragona. The ingredients predominantly include what is available locally along the Mediterranean coast – many types of fish, as well as from the fields and mountains – vegetables, wheat, legumes, oils, wines, cheeses and meats – pork, poultry and lamb.
Food movements… The local, seasonal and minimal processing of the traditional Catalan cuisine is an approach I love and one we should all embrace more to not only benefit from the freshest and tastiest food but to also better support local communities while minimizing harmful food miles in the journey to our plates!
The number one reason I adore Barcelona… It’s tricky to just pick one. Really, I would have to say the people – they are so friendly, welcoming and share their passion and love for Barcelona and Spain in such a special way through celebrating food, wine, music, dancing and making sure everyone is having a good time.
One thing(s) I cannot travel without… My iPad – it’s the best way to research as you travel, lighter than travel books and a big help in deciding where to go and what to see. Checking reviews online can also be very handy when booking hotels and deciding what to see, eat or do and the best time and way to do it!
What to pack and when… Pack light! The shopping is AMAZING in Barcelona.
Best-kept secret about Barcelona… The lolly stall in Mercat de Sant Josep de La Boqueria!
Best place(s) to shop… Passeig de Gràcia is the best for high fashion and is very central. Alternatively, more eclectic, funky independent fashion stores can be found in one of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhoods, El Born.
The last thing or place you must visit before departing… Mount Tibidabo, take a taxi to the top of this mountain for the most dazzling views of the city and coastline. You will also find Barcelona’s oldest amusement park and a church, Temple de Sagrat Cor.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Olivia Stratton
- Creative Credit
- Ecoobe.com
- Photography
- Olivia Stratton
