Traditional Catalan Christmas Foods You Have to Try in Barcelona

Christmas in Barcelona is more than just twinkling lights, bustling markets, and joyful carolers—it’s a culinary celebration deeply rooted in Catalan traditions. The holiday season brings families together over feasts that have been passed down through generations, showcasing the best of Catalonia’s flavors and culture. If you’re visiting Barcelona during this magical time, you’re in for a treat. From comforting stews to delicate sweets, Catalan Christmas foods tell a story of community and celebration. To make your holiday experience truly special, here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and where to savor them in the city.

Where to Try It: If you want to experience this beloved dish, head to Can Culleretes, one of Barcelona’s oldest restaurants, where tradition meets authenticity. Another excellent spot is Casa Delfín in El Born, where escudella is served with a contemporary twist that still honors its heritage.

For Catalans, December 26th is almost as festive as Christmas Day itself. Known as "Sant Esteve," this day is marked by the indulgence in canelons. Unlike the Italian version, Catalan canelons are stuffed with leftovers from the Christmas feast, such as roasted meat or poultry, mixed with béchamel sauce and baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that not only reduces food waste but also transforms leftovers into something entirely new and delicious. Families often have friendly debates over the "best" recipe, with some adding a hint of nutmeg to the sauce or sprinkling extra cheese on top.

Where to Try It: For an authentic taste of this Boxing Day tradition, visit El Glop in Gràcia, known for its hearty Catalan cooking. Alternatively, 7 Portes, a historic dining institution, offers a refined take on this beloved dish, perfect for savoring in a classic setting.

Turrón is more than just a holiday treat; it’s a symbol of Christmas joy in Catalonia. Made primarily from almonds and honey, this nougat-like confection comes in countless varieties, from the classic hard turrón de Alicante to the softer turrón de Jijona. Over the years, innovative chefs have created modern twists, incorporating chocolate, dried fruits, and even liquors. It’s a sweet that appeals to all ages, with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Sharing a box of turrón is a cherished tradition, whether it’s given as a gift or enjoyed during a festive family gathering.

Where to Try It: To experience the finest turrón, visit Vicens, which has specialized in this sweet treat for generations and offers a wide array of flavors. Another excellent choice is La Campana in El Born, where handmade turrón is crafted with care and creativity.

Neules are thin, crisp wafers that are as light as air and as festive as they come. Traditionally served alongside cava, these delicate treats are perfect for nibbling during holiday toasts. Their simplicity is part of their charm—made from flour, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, they pair beautifully with the effervescence of Catalonia’s favorite sparkling wine. In many households, neules are an integral part of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve celebrations, adding a sweet, crunchy element to the evening’s festivities.

Where to Try It: Stop by Escribà, a renowned pastry shop in Eixample, for some of the most exquisite neules in the city. Another excellent spot is Forn Mistral, a bakery celebrated for its traditional Catalan confections.

At first glance, galets might just look like oversized pasta shells, but they hold a special place in Catalan Christmas cuisine. Typically served in the broth of escudella, these large pasta shells are a visual and culinary delight. Their hollow shape allows them to soak up the flavors of the rich broth, creating a satisfying bite that feels like a little gift in itself. Galets are also a symbol of abundance and celebration, often making their way into decorative displays during the holiday season.

Where to Try It: To enjoy galets in their most traditional form, visit Els 4Gats, a historic restaurant known for its rich Catalan flavors. For a more rustic experience, head to L’Arrosseria Xàtiva, which specializes in hearty, comforting dishes.

Few things evoke the holiday spirit like biting into a crumbly, almond-based polvorón. These festive cookies, which practically melt in your mouth, are a staple on Catalan Christmas tables. Their name comes from the Spanish word "polvo," meaning dust, a nod to their powdery texture. Each bite delivers a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate on a chilly evening.

Where to Try It: Treat yourself to the finest polvorons at Hoffman Pastisseria, a Michelin-starred bakery known for its innovative approach to classic sweets. Another fantastic option is La Colmena, a historic confectionery in the Gothic Quarter.

No Christmas feast in Catalonia is complete without a glass (or two) of cava. This sparkling wine, produced in the Penedès region, is the drink of choice for toasting the holiday season. With its crisp bubbles and vibrant flavors, cava perfectly complements both savory dishes like escudella and sweet treats like turrón. It’s a symbol of celebration, bringing friends and family together to share in the joy of the season.

Where to Try It: For an authentic cava experience, visit El Xampanyet in El Born, a lively spot where the cava flows freely alongside small plates. Another favorite is Can Paixano (La Xampanyeria), a buzzing cava bar in Barceloneta that captures the festive spirit of the holidays.

Barcelona’s Christmas foods are more than just meals—they’re a celebration of history, family, and togetherness. Each dish, from the heartwarming escudella to the sweet crunch of neules, reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage and the joy of the holiday season. If you’re visiting Barcelona during Christmas, take the opportunity to taste these traditional delights.

And for an unforgettable way to experience the city’s festive atmosphere, join our Christmas Bike Tour! Discover Barcelona’s illuminated streets, visit charming Christmas markets, and learn about Catalan holiday traditions, all while enjoying delicious tapas and cava along the way.

While traditional Catalan Christmas foods bring warmth and joy to the holiday table, the festive drinks of the season are just as important. From sparkling cava to rich hot chocolate and vi calent (mulled wine), these beverages perfectly complement the flavors of Catalonia during Christmas. To learn more about what to sip during the holidays, check out our new post on Catalan Christmas Drinks: What to Sip During the Festive Season and make your holiday experience even more delightful!