La Terraza del Central: cocktails and views over the old town
A roof between the Gothic Quarter and the Born
The Grand Hotel Central occupies Casa Cambó, a building on Via Laietana, the great thoroughfare that runs alongside the Gothic Quarter and El Born. At the very top, on the eighth floor, La Terraza del Central brings together a bar, a restaurant and an infinity pool lined with Balinese beds and Mediterranean plants. The eye sweeps over the rooftops of the old town to the blue of the Mediterranean; further away, the Sagrada Família, the Glòries tower and the basilica of Santa Maria del Mar stand out.
From sunset to DJ sessions
As the day draws to a close, a stroke of the gong greets the sunset and the lighting reveals a 1920s mural by Oleguer Junyent, visible only from the terrace. Local DJs then take over. The pool and sun loungers are reserved for hotel guests; the bar and restaurant, however, also welcome outside visitors, especially in the evening.
A menu that tours the Mediterranean
The food travels from one shore to the other: hummus, fried halloumi, Greek salad, chicken gyros, burrata or pizzetta, as well as patatas bravas, croquettes and hand-carved Iberian ham. Devised by head bartender Matteo Conte, the signature cocktails focus on citrus, flowers and aromatic herbs; they cost €17, like the great classics, and the alcohol-free versions €15.
Practical information
The terrace is open from noon to 10pm, with the kitchen serving from 2pm to 9pm. The menu mentions an entry fee of €17 for people not staying at the hotel. It is advisable to book a table by phone or email, and to check opening times outside the warmer months. Jaume I metro (line L4) is a five-minute walk away.
An ideal spot for a sunset drink in the heart of Ciutat Vella.
