Barcelona's Hotel Mett, located near Tibidabo, has unveiled two new dining concepts, Albarada and 1925 Vermutería, offering guests panoramic views of the city from 500 metres above sea level. These establishments, sharing a terrace at the former Gran Hotel La Florida, provide distinct gastronomic experiences alongside breathtaking vistas.
From this elevated position, diners can see across Barcelona and beyond, with clear days offering spectacular scenery. Even during storms, the view of lightning is described as sensational. Both venues aim to match the quality of their food with the impressive surroundings, according to El Periódico Barcelona.
1925 Vermutería: A Sophisticated Aperitif Spot
1925 Vermutería, named after the hotel's construction year, presents a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere. Its interior, with golden wall details and a prominent bar, resembles a cosmopolitan cocktail lounge more than a traditional bar. The menu, however, is firmly rooted in vermouth culture, featuring classic Spanish aperitivos such as gildas, patatas bravas, croquettes, and Spanish potato omelette.
One standout dish is the marinated salmon cubes with lime and orange, garnished with trout roe and served in ajoblanco. Despite its luxury hotel setting and impressive views, prices are kept reasonable, with a glass of vermouth starting from €6. The drinks menu also includes a selection of Spanish wines, mostly available by the glass, making it an ideal spot for an aperitif before or after visiting the nearby Tibidabo amusement park.
Given its capacity for only 50-60 people, advance reservations are recommended for 1925 Vermutería.
Albarada: Mediterranean Flavours with a View
Adjacent to the Vermutería, Albarada takes its name from the Spanish word for 'dawn light'. Its interior features warm, Mediterranean colours, highlighted by an olive tree planted in the centre of the room. A large window opens to let in natural light and offers expansive views of Barcelona. Chef Rubén Briones leads the kitchen, focusing on local, high-quality ingredients and regional cuisine.
Dishes at Albarada include a root salad with three types of Catalan-grown beetroot, served with sweet potato purée and chips, and a homemade vinaigrette. Other menu highlights are spicy green sauce clams, wild sea bass with basil and garlic sofrito and leek sauce, and slow-cooked lamb shoulder with beans and mint mojo. The restaurant also offers grilled lobster paella and a steak tartare presented on bone marrow cooked in a wood-fired oven, resting on rosemary and thyme sprigs that are torched at the table. For dessert, there is a citrus-infused baked cheesecake and a chocolate flan with smoked milk ice cream, confirming that Albarada's food lives up to its stunning location.
Both Albarada and 1925 Vermutería aim to become key dining destinations in Barcelona, drawing on the hotel's history and its unique position overlooking the city. Future plans include maintaining their focus on local produce and high-quality service, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
