Els 4 Gats is a historic restaurant and bar on Carrer de Montsió in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Opened in 1897, it became a meeting place for Modernist artists, including a young Pablo Picasso, who held his first exhibition in the restaurant’s large room. Inside Casa Martí, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, you’ll find art-filled walls and a vintage interior. Stay for Catalan dishes such as seafood paella and crema catalana, or drop in for coffee, wine or a glass of sangria.
A café inspired by Paris
Els 4 Gats opened in 1897, created by Pere Romeu after his time working at Le Chat Noir, a Paris cabaret café. He wanted to bring a similar meeting place to Barcelona. The project had support from Catalan Modernist figures Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol, whose influence is linked to the venue’s distinctive decoration.
The café became a gathering place for Barcelona’s artists and intellectuals. A young Pablo Picasso began visiting in 1899 and held his first exhibition in the venue’s large room. Artists and musicians associated with its circle included Antoni Gaudí, Isidre Nonell, Isaac Albéniz and Enric Granados. Picasso also designed a menu cover as his first paid commission.
Casa Martí and its interior
The restaurant occupies part of Casa Martí, a Modernista building designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, a contemporary of Gaudí. Its exterior and interior are part of the visit: look for the historic details, framed artwork and posters, and the dark wood furnishings. The room’s character comes from its café and cabaret past as well as its use as a restaurant.
The venue was conceived as a Barcelona counterpart to Le Chat Noir, with inexpensive food and piano music as part of the original idea. The original restaurant closed in 1903, then the space was restored and reopened at its original location. Its artistic history is still visible in the images and decoration inside.
Food and drink at Els 4 Gats
The menu includes Catalan and Mediterranean cooking. Seafood paella and other rice dishes are among the choices, while crema catalana is a traditional dessert to finish with. Patatas bravas, croquettes and mussels also appear among the dishes associated with the restaurant. For a shorter stop, you can choose coffee, wine or sangria instead of a full meal.
The wine list includes local wines. Reports of the dining experience are mixed, so make the historic room part of your reason for coming as well as the meal. If you want to dine rather than just have a drink, reserve ahead; the restaurant can be busy, particularly around lunch.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Els 4 Gats?
It is at Carrer de Montsió, 3, in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
Why is Els 4 Gats historically significant?
The café opened in 1897 and became a meeting place for artists. Pablo Picasso held his first exhibition there.
Should I reserve a table at Els 4 Gats?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially for dining at a popular time.
What can you order at Els 4 Gats?
The menu includes seafood paella, patatas bravas, croquettes and crema catalana. You can also stop for coffee, wine or sangria.
