Dining Out
- Tipping
- Not Mandatory: Unlike the US, tipping in Barcelona is not expected or mandatory. It's seen as a way to show appreciation for exceptional service.
- Small Gestures: If you had a great experience, a small tip of a few euros (1-2 euros per person) or rounding up the bill is perfectly acceptable.
- Check for Service Charge: Some restaurants might include a service charge on the bill. Look for this before leaving an additional tip.
- Restaurant Reservations
- Fine Dining & Popular Spots: For Michelin-starred restaurants or highly-rated establishments, reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner. These places can fill up quickly, particularly during peak tourist season (March-November).
Casual Eateries: Reservations are generally less necessary at casual restaurants. However, if you have a large group (more than 4 people) or are visiting during a busy time (weekends, evenings), it might be helpful to call ahead and secure a table.
- Making Reservations: The most common apps for making reservations are Open Table and TheFork, however, many restaurants still take reservations the old fashioned way - with a phone call!
- Many restaurants in Barcelona have websites where you can book a table online.