The brunch fever arrived in Barcelona somewhat late and initially caught on mainly among European expats settled in the city and tourists with this Sunday custom already integrated into their gastronomic habits. Over the years, Barcelonians have adapted it into options more aligned with local schedules. That is, more than a super breakfast-lunch, like an early meal dressed as a buffet that covers everything: from classic cold cuts and eggs, to a feast that includes paellas, meats, and fish. The new proposal from Azul Rooftop Barceloneta, by chef Romain Fornell, follows this formula and turns Sundays into a party. But it is not just another brunch, but rather adds the best (and most maritime) views compared to other local competitors.
The new offer, ideal for a sunny day when one wants to contemplate the Barcelona coastline with a 360-degree perspective, costs 49 euros (children aged 6 to 12 pay 20 euros). And it is complemented by an open bar option for 25 euros. The first step is a welcome drink included at the oval bar located on one side of the restaurant.
Eighth floor and viewpoint
True to its name, the restaurant is located on the eighth floor of a building next to the W Hotel and as soon as the elevator door opens, the panorama is all the blue that day the sea and the sky are. The usual menu is Mediterranean, with no shortage of rice dishes, fish, and seafood. But for his Sun Day Brunch, the Michelin-starred chef has orchestrated a mix of international dishes and others in tune with the house cuisine.
The season opens at 1:00 PM, and it's advisable to arrive at that time because that's when the stations are freshly set up and in all their splendor. It's never identical, because Fornell explains that he introduces some seasonal product or some preparation to break the monotony. But it is certain that diners will find a table entirely dedicated to oysters, without limit. And there will always be a selection of cold cuts, cheeses, and an egg preparation area, essential in any self-respecting brunch.
More noteworthy are the array of daily salads, already prepared in single servings, from the house's Russian salad to other proposals like the Niçoise. One must not skip his version of the truffle onion omelet, individual bite-sized and more sophisticated. But among all the starters, the carpaccios, both the beef and especially the octopus with a crunchy touch, should possibly be highlighted.
Small portions of pizza and truffled "biquinis" (toasted sandwiches) can be a dangerous temptation if you want to arrive with appetite for the last assault. Because the seafood paella, especially when it has just come out, deserves a mandatory stop in a restaurant so focused on the Mediterranean that it feels like being on a cruise. There are also always vegetable accompaniments, such as (that day) Thai vegetables or roasted sweet potato.
From the sea and more
Among the main courses, a couple of grilled fish options are always offered, such as sea bream and salmon fillets.Meat-eaters can opt for grilled dishes or stews. On the Sunday of our visit, the buffet included beef sirloin (sometimes there is sliced ribeye) and criollo chorizo, as well as a hearty meat stew.
In parallel, individual bowls of pasta preparations come out of the open kitchen, served at the table. To remain hungry is literally impossible, but one must always leave some room to try some sweet from the last station, where there are plenty of cakes, tiramisu, and creams.
Another element to highlight of this Sunday great plan is the small children's entertainment area, where children can paint and play ---with an entertainer--- while the rest of the family indulges in the feast. And even more, from 3:30 p.m. there is live music, with the possibility of extending the experience towards the tardeo from its attractive viewpoint terrace, cocktail or drink in hand.
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