BarcelonaBarcelona is a feast for the senses. The first thing that will hit you when you walk in the door is the sheer gorgeousness of the place. No expense was spared with furnishings, faux paintings, murals and other décor. Other sights include a load of flat screen TVs (some in picture frames) to catch the stage act or the local ball game. Barcelona is like a supper club married to a really hip night club. There are private dining rooms, dining near the stage, and a fun-loving crowd near the bars and on the patio.
For the ears, there is dance music until 7, live jazz on stage from 7 to 10, and a DJ from midnight to 1. The other sound you will hear are voices of a lot of people having a really good time. The crowd is a mix of singles and groups ranging in age from 30s to 60s.
So, we’ve covered eyes and ears – so what about taste? Don’t worry – Barcelona will give you as much in that department as it did in the others. Chef Patrick has developed a menu that will interest everyone. To start, there is a list of Spanish tapas (appetizers) with a Southwestern twist – fire-seared bacon-wrapped shrimp with jalapeno hollandaise, chipotle braised mussels and spicy crab cakes. Other incredibly good starters include the house-smoked salmon on focaccia points with fried capers lemon aioli and the New World shrimp – hot, spicy, sweet and crunchy all at the same time.
Main courses do not disappoint – everything from paella to pork chops to seafood offer tantalizing tastes. The mixed grill and pasta is a mix of petit filet, chicken breast, and the fresh catch of the day with a side of delicious pasta in a garlic cream sauce with asparagus and pear tomatoes. The kitchen knows how to handle a grill – with each piece of meat coming out perfectly cooked, and each getting its own unique sauce.
The rack of lamb with black currant sauce is perhaps the best dish on the menu. The lamb chops are cooked perfectly and the sauce is not overpowering. Other great dining options are the wide variety of many pizzas and pastas.
Don’t leave without having dessert – some familiar items, and some familiar with a bit of a twist. Barcelona’s crustless cheesecake is made with crème fraiche to give it a lighter taste. The warm chocolate tart, oozing with melted ganache and paired with gourmet chocolate ice cream will satisfy any sweet tooth.
The servers at Barcelona know their clientele and are professional and courteous. There is a good selection of wines by the glass and the full wine list is incredibly extensive.
good to know: not a quiet place -- be ready for fun.what to wear: this is Scottsdale -- and Barcelona requests casual, elegant attire.
must haves: anything with the house-smoked salmon, lamb chops, dessert.
Barcelona
15440 Greenway-Hayden Loop, Scottsdale(480) 603-0370