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Café Emma

Barcelona’s authentic French Bistro

By Brian Gallagher 02.09.14

Although the contemporary cuisine of Barcelona (and Spanish cuisine generally) has drawn inspiration from its immediate neighbour over the years its influence has been somewhat diluted by the nouvelle cuisine from around the globe that has increasingly been distracting natives and visitors alike. There are however a number of chefs active in the city who are keeping the flame of excellent culinary tradition alive and Romain Fornell and Michel Sarran are at the vanguard of that tradition. After having recently celebrated the third anniversary of Café Emma, located right at the heart of the Eixample neighbourhood, Fornell and Sarran have incorporated dishes suggested by 5 celebrated French gastronomic references; chefs Christian Etchebest, Bruno Doucet and Yves Camdeborde, renowned sixth generation ostricultor and more recently turned actor Joël Dupuch as well as Patrick Bacquié owner of Café J.Bacquié specialist coffee shop located in Toulouse.

Romain Fornell, with a star Michelin under his belt (at Caelis) and Michel Sarran, with two stars to his name at his eponymous restaurant in Toulouse (France) have re-imagined the concept of a French bistro at Café Emma, where 'samplng dishes' ​​are served without any fuss and at affordable prices. An approach that combines the best of French cuisine with local and international tastes.

  • Café Emma
  • Café Emma

     

    The regularly updated menu at Café Emma features an impressive selection of dishes, most notably the Lobster Macaroni al comté, the Beef Tartar and an excellent selection of French cheeses. Among the typical French desserts are Crêpe Suzette and Profiteroles as well as the Tarte Tatin. Not forgetting the collection of wines and champagnes (exclusively French). Dishes suggested by the guest chefs include; Sauteed Squid, Watercress Juice, mini Turnip and Leek served with Combawa Lemon created by Christian Etchebest; Cod served in Aromatic Herbs and Espelette pepper, Smoked Habas Beans and Parsley Brioche by Yves Camdeborde and the Pork Belly and Caramelized Onions with Chorizo ​​Emulsion by Bruno Doucet.

  • Café Emma

    Joël Dupuch, Michel Sarran, Christian Etchebest, Romain Fornell, Bruno Doucet, Yves Camdeborde and Patrick Bacquié, ©Arduino Vannucchi

    Average price; midday special menu 17 Euros, with an evening menu 22 Euros which can vary according to season.