La Cova Fumada
Where? La Cova Fumada (Ciutat Vella, Barcelona, Spain) Map
When? Wednesday March 20, 2024
Who? Me
Food Style? Tapas
My original choice, Lanto, was fully booked, so here I am in Barceloneta for some tapas. There’s a queue outside but single diner privilege means I can get a quick seat if I’m okay with being at the bar. The restaurant is absolutely packed and the busy sounds of people enjoying their food fill the interior. La Cova Fumada is Catalan for “The Smokey Cove”, and sure enough, even standing outside, the aromas of the kitchen are wafting through the air and it smells wonderful. I’m in the mood for seafood today. No dessert this time, I’ve already got something in mind! After standing awkwardly for a good ten minutes, my order finally gets taken.
Tapas #1
Pa amb tomaquet
The Catalan classic, bread with tomato mushed into it, seasoned with salt, garlic and olive oil. This is such a staple in the region, and I can't help but wonder what perfect alignment of bread type and tomato type is required to replicate this exactly back in Toronto.
Tapas #2
Octopus
The waitress tells me something and points to a plate in the bar counter. I don’t know what she said so I just nod. This is dumb because she speaks English and I could have easily found out but sure whatever. It’s hearty and a bit over seasoned, but the bread helps to balance it out.
Tapas #3
Squid
This one I used the OBLAT strategy: order by looking at other tables. It looks damn impressive and when it arrives, I'm over the moon. Oh my goodness it's fantastic. That charred exterior is so crispy and tasty, with the meat itself being soft and tender. The Catalans have it so good with all this fresh seafood at their doorstep.
I pay and leave. As I turn to exit the restaurant, my legs complain, having been completely upright and motionless for the past 30 minutes. I need to sit down for a bit.
Posted by Jeremy at 7:40am on Saturday December 28, 2024 :: 0 comments :: 