Bodega Sepúlveda

At number 172 on Sepúlveda Street, in the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample district, you’ll find Bodega Sepúlveda, a restaurant with the soul of a traditional tavern that has successfully preserved the essence of classic Catalan cuisine while adapting it to modern tastes. Specializing in market-driven cooking, its menu blends elevated tapas with time-honored dishes, and it enjoys a loyal following that includes politicians, actors, and athletes. Among them: Pep Guardiola, Joan Laporta, Xavier Trias, and Juan Carlos Navarro have all been regulars.

A Century-Old Establishment with History

With over a hundred years of history, Bodega Sepúlveda stands as a gastronomic landmark in the city. Originally a tavern selling bulk wine until 1936—typical for the era—it was purchased on October 2, 1952, by Llorens Solà, grandfather of the current owner. A former maître to King Alfonso XIII, Solà brought with him a deep respect for service and culinary tradition, which he passed down to a family that also ran the Casa Solà inn in Gelida for many years.

His grandson, Josep Solà, began working at the bodega while studying business, a path that later took him to live in Lebanon for a time. After the death of his father, he returned to take over the family business. Alongside his wife Joaquina and daughters Núria and Sonia, he introduced what would become the restaurant’s signature concept: "tapas with tablecloth"—a nod to the traditional Catalan fork breakfasts that allowed for generous stews and quality cured meats served outside conventional meal hours.

A New Generation, Rooted in Tradition

Today, Núria and Sonia Solà are at the helm. Núria runs the dining room, while Sonia leads the kitchen, preparing the restaurant’s signature stews and traditional dishes with the same care and passion passed down through generations.

Cuisine with Local Flavor and Deep Roots

The menu proudly features many of the classic dishes that regulars have insisted on keeping over the years. From tapas and traditional recipes to locally sourced meats, seafood, and fish, everything is prepared with dedication and respect for the ingredients. This is honest, heartfelt Catalan cuisine—based on family recipes that have evolved without losing their soul.

An extensive wine list, carefully curated, also bears the legacy of the family patriarch. Here, wine is not just a pairing—it’s an integral part of the dining experience.

Why Is It Worth a Visit?

Because Bodega Sepúlveda offers more than just good food—it’s a place where tradition, quality ingredients, and a warm, familiar atmosphere come together to create an authentic and memorable experience. It’s not a quick bite or a typical tapas bar, but a living piece of Barcelona’s culinary heritage.