C/Torrent de l'Olla, 39-41 :
Fontana / Diagonal 
: Gracia 
: 
Gracia's finest, and indeed only, English pub, the Bristol Blue has improved immeasurably in the last 12 months or so and is rarely as empty as it once was. It still draws crowds for football matches but is noticeably less rowdy than many of Barcelona's other English and Irish pubs, making it a great place to come for a cosy chat with friends. While it attracts its fair share of ex-pat punters, there are also plenty of locals to liven up proceedings. Another plus (depending on your musical inclinations) is the defiantly untrendy 90s Britpop they often play. One major drawback is the lack of a food menu – if you're feeling peckish, the most substantial grub you'll get is a bowl of pork scratchings. Another black mark is the frustratingly tiny pool room which really isn't worth bothering with at all, unless your idea of fun involves gouging chunks out of the walls and ceiling with your cue butt. Prices are reasonable and there is always the cut-price and invariably Czech “beer of the week”, perfect for those honest types who need a genuine reason to phone in sick the following day. The Bristol Blue is a chilled and pleasant pub and a charming alternative to downtown's more tourist-oriented boozers.
Paul
