Palamos revisited

Following our recent visit (July 2025) and our extensive "research", we must report our findings; a couple of sad losses to the town, but mainly great new finds.....

So to get the sad stuff over - the iconic Blues and sandwich bar Grania Cristall Cafe (Carrer Lopez) is no more - let's hope the owner has slipped off to somewhere even more chilled and exotic....

And the Bodega Miquel (Avinguda de la Mediterranea) - a sad loss to those who love to buy their wine, sherry, vermouth in exactly the quantities they choose.... unfortunately this seems to be a sign of the times...

On to much better news....

We are delighted to have found an evening kiosk (OPP - like a fisherman's cooperative) right next to the fish market in the port, selling the freshest catch of the day, simply prepared in front of you by the person(s) who caught it, alongside a 1euro "tastet" of delicious local wine....perfect!

Not far away is the terrific low key, Casa del Mar (Placa de la Catifa) favoured by local salty sea dogs (such as ourselves!). We defy you to find a tastier seafood Fideua or a more reasonably priced 3 course menu del dia with wine (13.95). Popular with local folk for good reason.

Another good lunchtime option is a menu at the homely, yet cheerfully decorated Brises (Carrer d'Arago, 11). Located several rows behind the seafront in a residential area (ideal if you're staying at Hotel Ona as we have done previously), it offers a great choice of dishes, all well prepared in a friendly, family environment. Outdoor seating on a quiet square with sea breezes.

Also in this locale is the fabulous Can Palli (Carrer President Macia, 97). A rostisseria - basically a very upmarket prepared food take away (very popular in Catalonia). The whole roasted chicken with potatoes roasted in the juice is delicious and highly recommended.

Just remember you may need to call in (or phone) to book your chicken for later in the day.

BarJaula Vermuteria (Carrer de la Roda, 4) in the heart of the old town has recently been taken over by the Les Brises team and we highly rate their vermut at aperitvo time...

Also in the old town, tucked around a corner of the main drag is Can Moni (Carrer Mauri I Vilar, 15) a delightfully simple and tiny, yet original and characterful bar serving old school style pintxos (slices of topped bread - think anything from a simple manchego to a prawn carpaccio). You will love the no frills vibes here ...

Por Babor has now relocated to the main street in the old town and has rebranded as Porba Bar (Carrer Major, 35) a pared back version of their previous incarnation. "Tapas" were creative, original and delicious. We can recommend their original take on patatas bravas, a delicious smoked fish selection and grilled duck. We will certainly be back for more.   

Bitacora (Carrer Nou, 3). Another great old town bar. We've yet to try the food, but love the vibe from the cheerful red patio seating, to the handsome bar at which we like to sit and chat about our day. Definitely worthy of more exploration.

Don't miss Barrilet (Avinguda Catalunya, 8) in the covered market; a super simple affair with a sweeping marble bar. Great for an early cava, beer or coffee with a mini (small crusty sarnie with cheese, omelette etc). Cheery, noisy and I suspect, if you could speak the lingo, the best spot to get the lowdown....

Palamos is proving to be the gift that keeps on giving, we discover so much more each time. Long may it continue!