Just a few blocks from the Port Olympic madness one can find this little, inviting cafe. I walked by it several times making a mental note to stop in and finally did so last night.
There are a lot of cookie-cutter type cafe's in Barcelona, same food, same florescent lighting, same surly staff, so Rembrandt easily stands out with it's attention to detail and decor. Their decorations include parlor striped wall paper, a larger than life Rembrandt, stylish mini chandeliers and four flat screen televisions that play a loop of a fireplace video. I love to watch Barcelona matches, but it's nice to have something playing that is tongue-in-cheek instead of relying on RAC (The Catalan version of MTV).
A chalkboard outside advertised the best nachos in Barcelona with two canyas for 9€ and that was enough for us. We were immediately welcomed, including my fluffy little dog under my arm. We asked if we could substitute one of the canyas for a white wine. The host said he didn't normally do that, but that he would do it today. I don't know, but things like that always tickle me. One could say that it was a Thursday night during the coldest week in Barcelona and they were extra accommodating, however Rembrandt was bustling with sharp dressed patrons. I would appear their friendly service and inviting atmosphere has already cultivated a following.
Our nachos, weren't really nachos by my American standard, but quite good--nacho chips with Spanish cheeses, jalopeños, a smattering of avocado mush and a sweet/spicy chili dipping salsa that was more Asian than Mexican. While not the glop of American comfort food I had hoped, very tasty in its own right and worth several more future visits. read more