Barcelona bar-restaurant Malamén is somewhat of a round peg in a square hole. Occupying a spot on divisive Carrer de Blai — famed for its Basque-style pintxo bars — Malamén is a refuge for all sick of fried things on sticks, a glamorous retreat harking to the magnetism of decades gone.
Michelin-starred kitchens have been graced by Swedish chef David Elfstrand, who heads things up here on Blai — joining couple Venezuelan Humberto Cruz and Navarra-born Daniel Gallego Garcés in delivering differential to Poble Sec … the traditionally working class ‘hood that is on many minds as one of Barcelona’s rising barrios.
Fresh, modern, seasonal are all words you’ll find in countless rave reviews of the eatery’s tapas and decadent main meals — culinary inspiration coming far and wide, from each of the trio’s respective home countries. Who ever wanted to be a square peg in a square hole?
