Los Caracoles, originally known as Can Bofarull, was founded in 1835 by the Bofarull family and remains in the hands of the same family today, now run by the fifth generation. This remarkable continuity of family tradition is a key element that has allowed the restaurant to maintain its authentic character for nearly two centuries. The restaurant began as a modest tavern, only to evolve over time into one of the most recognizable restaurants in Barcelona. The distinctive 19th century building has retained its original character, with traditional wooden ceiling beams, ceramic tiles and historic architectural details. Of particular note is the unique kitchen with a huge charcoal-fired oven, where traditional dishes have been prepared for generations. It is here, in the heart of the restaurant, that you can observe the process of preparing food according to recipes handed down from generation to generation. The interior of Los Caracoles is a true museum of Catalan culinary culture, where every element of the decor tells its own story. The long bar, the richly decorated walls with wine barrels preserved in perfect condition and the characteristic mosaic with hams hanging from the ceiling create a unique atmosphere. On the walls you can admire photos of famous guests who have visited the restaurant over the years, including artists, politicians and personalities from the world of culture. Among them were Ernest Hemingway, who took a liking to the place during his stays in Barcelona, and members of the Spanish royal family. The restaurant is open 365 days a year, a testament to its remarkable vitality and importance to the local community.

The Los Caracoles menu is a true celebration of Catalan culinary tradition, combining classic recipes with the highest quality local ingredients. The eponymous snails, prepared according to a closely guarded family recipe, remain one of the most sought-after dishes, but the culinary offerings are much richer. The restaurant is famous for its wide range of Mediterranean dishes, among which roast piglet, exquisite fish soup bouillabaisse and a variety of rice dishes are particularly noteworthy. The menu also includes salt cod, seafood, juicy entrecote, traditional suquet (fish stew) and zarzuela (seafood dish). Each dish at Los Caracoles has its own history and is prepared with the utmost care, according to traditional methods. Special attention is paid to preserving the original flavors and culinary techniques, while ensuring the highest quality of service and food presentation. The restaurant's wine list is another source of pride - an extensive collection of wines from various regions of Spain, with a particular emphasis on Catalan wines, has been carefully selected to blend perfectly with the dishes served. Sommeliers provide professional advice on the selection of wines for individual dishes, sharing their knowledge and passion. Price-wise, the restaurant ranges from 31-50 euros per meal (as of 2024), which, considering the quality of the dishes served, the historic nature of the place and its location in the heart of the tourist district, is a reasonable proposition for those seeking a unique dining experience.

A visit to Los Caracoles is more than a simple meal - it's a trip back in time and a true cultural experience. The restaurant is open daily, serving lunch from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and dinner from 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Especially popular are the evenings when Catalans celebrate late dinners, turning them into real feasts. Just walking into the restaurant through the distinctive kitchen, where you can watch the cooks working at the traditional hearths, is the beginning of an extraordinary culinary adventure. The atmosphere of the place is unique - the combination of historic architecture, traditional decor with hams hanging from the ceiling and large barrels along the walls, and the bustle of conversation creates an atmosphere that cannot be experienced anywhere else. The restaurant's location in the heart of Barri Gòtic, near popular landmarks such as Las Ramblas and Plaça Real, makes it an ideal place to take a break while exploring the old town. The availability of parking near La Rambla and convenient metro access (Liceo or Drassanes stations) make it easy to reach the restaurant. Los Caracoles accepts major payment cards, including AMEX, JCB, Mastercard and Visa, which is convenient for international guests. Due to the popularity of the place, especially during the peak tourist season, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Despite its reputation and prestigious nature, Los Caracoles retains the atmosphere of a true Catalan restaurant, where every guest is treated with equal attention and respect. The staff, often associated with the restaurant for many years, are eager to share stories about the establishment and its traditions with guests, further enriching the dining experience. Los Caracoles is not just a restaurant - it is an institution that has been cultivating Catalan culinary traditions for nearly two centuries, while remaining a lively and vibrant place where history meets modernity.