Pompa

Tucked away in Barcelona’s beloved Gràcia neighborhood, Pompa is the intimate younger sibling of the popular Berbena. Don’t let its compact size fool you—this wine-forward spot punches well above its weight with a surprisingly ambitious menu crafted from what amounts to little more than a two-burner stove and a tiny oven. The stripped-back interior features weathered walls and a record player spinning soul classics, creating an atmosphere that feels like a love letter to Brooklyn loft bars and Parisian wine haunts.

The kitchen delivers dishes that belie its modest setup. The hake pil-pil showcases cheeks instead of the typical tail cuts, yielding an impossibly rich, collagen-laden sauce. A standout tarama arrives loaded with briny depth and topped with trout eggs that burst satisfyingly with each bite. For dessert, the crème fraîche ice cream walks a delicate line between sweet and savory, finished with sea salt and a generous pour of quality olive oil.

Wine is the star here, and the selection is thoughtfully curated to complement the seasonal menu. The cheese and charcuterie boards deserve special mention—they’re so impeccably sourced and presented that even the most discerning cheese lover would nod in approval. This is the kind of place where you want to linger over another glass and another bite.

Given its size and reputation, scoring a table requires planning ahead. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially for weekend evenings. Pompa is ideal for impressing visitors, romantic evenings, or anyone who appreciates excellent wine paired with inventive, lovingly prepared food in an unpretentious setting.