Spanish/Argentine film Elsa y Fred speaks of love, hopes and dreams. An appropriate name for this “gastrobar” opened last year by Argentinean sisters Camila and Sofia with Catalan head chef Ramon. Inspired by the elegance and warmth of a 1950’s Europe, Elsa y Fred reinvents the classic tapas bar, infusing fresh, seasonal Mediterranean cuisine with international touches. The kitchen never closes – start off the morning with a breakfast of fresh-baked croissants, muesli with Greek yogurt & honey, French toast or ham & eggs. During the day they serve cocas and sandwiches like the Pastrami with Caramelized Onion, Arugula and Mustard Sauce. Choose from traditional tapas such as patatas bravas or Mushroom Croquettes or experimental offerings like Mussels with Lime, Ginger & Coriander or Tuna Tartare with Beets & Fresh Cheese. Finish with the Carrot Cake or Strawberry Stew with Balsamic Pepper Reduction & Vanilla Ice Cream. On weekends and holidays they serve brunch, during the week lunch for €13.50, and dinner runs about €25 a head. Ask for recommended wine pairings, try the homemade …

I love this cozy spot, decorated so warmly it feels like you’re a guest in someone’s living room. The sofas, fireplace, long wooden tables and fresh flowers are so inviting this is one of those places you can easily spend a whole morning or afternoon in, catching up on a good conversation, reading the newspaper or working with your laptop. Mostly frequented by locals, it’s a family business with charming Argentinian born sisters Camila and Sofia running the place and Camila’s husband Ramon in charge of the kitchen. He cooks up tasty and original tapas like red tuna tartar with cheese and beetroot or roast beef on a crispy onion coca with their “secret” sauce, as well as all kinds of sandwiches, cakes and a great lunch daily menu. I highly recommend this spot for anyone visiting the Born neighborhood or Ciutadella Parc, it makes for a great local stop whether you want to have breakfast, lunch or a light tapas dinner.