Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9 to 20, Sat-Fri - day off
Meet Baldomero, a charming spot in the Eixample district. This casual eatery has a unique personality that sets it apart from the city's bustling restaurant scene. With an emphasis on simplicity and a commitment to local flavours, Baldomero offers a refreshing departure from the pomp and solemnity often associated with haute cuisine restaurants. The decor is based on wood, a pastel palette and soft lighting. The café has a pleasant semi-darkness, as if you were hiding from the sun in a gazebo.
Antonella Tignanelli, co-founder and chef:
About the name. There is a tradition in Spain of naming a building after its owner. This one belonged to Señor Baldomero. It used to be a garage, but now it is a place for good times and good food!
The concept. We wanted to create a space that resembled a country house, where it would be nice to relax and spend time with loved ones. A place we want to return to again and again.
Come here at midday. Baldomero is almost deserted by then. You can work or chat quietly over an espresso with pastries, croissants or fruit.
And at exactly one o'clock in the afternoon, magic will happen. The big wooden table in the improvised kitchen in the middle of the hall will be transformed. Huge platters of appetising salads, pies, meat, fish and grilled vegetables are laid out before you. The lack of a printed menu at Baldomero is more than justified. Here you choose with your eyes and your heart. But I warn you - it is not easy to decide! :)
Antonella Tignanelli on Baldomero Kitchen:
I have travelled a lot and studied the cuisines of different nations. All the dishes here are the fruit of my observations, a blend of the best, in my opinion. I would describe our cuisine as the homemade treats of all the grandmothers in the world.
Our credo is to cook food that everyone can understand. We offer simple dishes based on seasonal vegetables, herbs and spices. The treats are different every day, so our guests never get tired of coming here.
There are a few staples that I would recommend trying. Pistachio cake - my version of the famous Spanish almond cake Santiago / Tarta de santiago (pictured left) and tender lamb.
How does it work? The waiter serves you the meal of your choice. You can limit yourself to a salad or a hot meal. But if you're hungry, take more - you won't regret it. Three portions fit perfectly on one plate. Lunch is big and hearty. Everything we've had time to try gets an A+. Simple recipes using seasonal produce, but all skilfully arranged with exquisite accents.
The cost of meals is fixed. Hot meals cost 5.40€, salads, pies and desserts 3.85€.
