March 10. Casa Ràfols

By Madeleine Farmer.

The Gold gilding of statues mounted upon historical fountains glinted from the street lamps lighting our way under the azul butterfly blue sky, as we walked past Plaça de Sonia Rescalvo Zafra on our way to Casa Rafols. History, stories, experiences, and people to share it all with play a major role in the experience of dining at Casa Rafols. What was once a well-appreciated hardware store with its own secret social spaces is now one where people can gather not so secretly to enjoy delicious tapas with local sourcing and community care. Upon entering one may find the charity that Casa Rafols is donating to posted to the door, or they may notice a beautiful Art Deco bar and seating area. Our group was lucky to be able to enter this historical space further to be seated in a private room which may have once been a secret meeting place for individuals during the Spanish Civil War.

Each placemat was set with care, and two glasses, one for wine, the other for water or another liquid of one’s preference. On one end of the room, a black fireplace with velvet seating in the corners and the other hosted a dresser where wine would be set for the evening. The wine was sweet and the company warm sharing a menu full of dishes each exploding with different layers of flavor. At some points, it seemed as though we may never know the end of how many tapas would reach our table. As though they could not have brought out enough food the restaurant staff made sure that even those with strong dietary restrictions left just as stuffed as those who have none. 

While Barcelona and much of the rest of Spain may be best known for their large family-style dishes to gather around and share, Casa Rafols breaks the mold while maintaining certain local traditions in preparation and hosting a table full of food as a strong third place. Despite our group’s experience in a private room, I could also imagine this dining experience to be one perfect for a girl’s night out, or friend reunion. From the Palette to the ambiance, Casa Rafols did not miss a beat. Should you find yourself there returning, or entering for the first time, raise a glass, make a toast, and know that on the walk home, your stomach will be full.