The Shamrock

There are many Irish pubs in Barcelona - most seem to have settled on C/Ferran - but like all popular holiday destinations, the best places are usually to be found tucked away and slightly hidden from the casual tourist's view. So it is with The Shamrock - not as large as The George Payne, nor as central as The Temple Bar, but friendly and they serve a good pint of Guiness. Less plastic than some pubs these days, this place will suit you if you like your drinking establishments to be down to earth - i.e. in the business of selling decent drinks in a condusive atmosphere, rather than attempting to be an entertainment center. Now, that said, no pub would be complete without the ability to show all the usual sporting fare - and the Shamrock excels in this regard with a large projection TV for footy, rugby, Gaelic & American football. Darts and pool are available for those who want to participate as well as spectate. There's good pub food available too, with English & Irish breakfasts, burgers, steak & kidney pies, sandwiches, etc. The Shamrock is a small and friendly place that's popular, but not overly so - you can normally find a place to relax with your friends - but be certain to double check the byzantine opening times. In short, worth checking out and could become a favourite if it's your kind of place.

Las Cuevas del Sorte

C/Gignas 2 : Barceloneta : Drassanes
Facebook Group
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The cute wooden door leads to... a beautiful den of soft lights, great cocktails and of course, a cave! Started and run by Jack, a very friendly American, and his wife - they wanted a great place with great cocktails and the right atmosphere - and they did it. Mostly redone by Jack himself, it boasts a small upstairs bar and a larger bar downstairs in the main cave. This could be Gaudi's basement, with blue glass tile all along one wall and curved shapes wherever possible. The selection of cocktails is excellent and perfect for groups of 4/5 people, and this bar can always accommodate more. Halloween is a big event here, with all the clients and staff turning up in dress and a free shot for you if you join them! Little details really make it special: place mats are deck cards, candles on the wall, etc. It's just an eternal favourite amongst anyone who has ever been there.
adventureMAN

The Pink Elephant

C/ Villarroel 82 : Urgell
www.pinkelephantlounge.com : Tel. 935 024 825
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Zero Zero and I stumbled across this superior establishment whilst seeking new inspiration in and around the Eixample Izquierda barrio, to the west of Plaça Catalunya. Whilst 7Sins and Belchica are both good picks for this area, we decided to see what else was around. The Pink Elephant is really a high quality restaurant, but it also has a lounge area with a full wine and cocktail menu. Owned by a New Yorker and Catalan, it apparently opened in 2008, and has been very tastefully done, with an elegant decor and an eclectic mix of music playing softly in the background. Although the lounge and restaurant are clearly aimed at the classier end of the market, the staff were perfectly friendly, accommodating and attentive, which helps one marinate in the pleasant surroundings. In addition, the drinks were of high quality and not outrageously priced. This lounge is not really suitable for groups though - it's a setting that's perfect for romantic couples or drinks / dinners with close friends. Check the rather good website for full cocktail and menu list, plus plenty of pictures of the interior.
Karma