b-served Gastronomy
Semon, delicatessen, restaurant & catering
New location, same charm
When it comes to most areas of life familiarity and reliability provide much appreciated continuity, especially in a world where change has become the norm and the only thing we can be absolutely sure of nowadays. This is doubly true with gastronomy and culinary culture, given the place that food occupies both nutritionally and psychologically with regards to our wellbeing. So then it’s good to be reminded that the classic icons of Barcelona’s culinary scene like Semon are not only resisting the challenges of the covid pandemic but reinventing themselves. Although it has moved its premises Semon has not left its neighbourhood, Sant Gervasi - Galvany. This local reference for gourmet produce, fine dining and catering has extended in area but retains the quality and excellent service that its reputation was built on, starting back in the 1960s.
Semon still over looks the church of Sant Gregori Taumaturg located in the eponymous plaza, one of the most unusual and beautiful public spaces in the area. The new setting however is bigger and has more seating area that includes an attractive pavement terrace. Entering on a half level the space is divided between a ground floor delicatessen counter occupying an island at its centre and restaurant seating to the rear with views into an open plan kitchen behind a glass partition. And a mezzanine level dining area with views over the plaza outside. The stone and brick façade of Sant Gregori Taumaturg (dating from the early 1950s) is framed by the panoramic windows of Semon, just like its previous setting the views and the ambience inside is like an extension of the square outside.
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Semon originates from a delicatessen called La Selecta, María Vidal (grand daughter of its founder) established a small shop in the upper part of Barcelona in 1962, with the idea of offering gourmet products to a select public.
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The produce on display within the glass cabinets and the deli counters at the entrance are as tempting as ever with everything, from sweet to savoury wonderfully exhibited within. There are daily specials on the lunch menu and food deliveries to anywhere in the city, and indeed the country for die-hard fans. One of the most popular services offered by Semon is its catering which is as busy as ever, despite the pandemic. And for the most astute fans the Semon logo has been slightly tweaked in order to celebrate this new professional era which still counts on the same friendly staff and offer but just in a new bright and sunny location a few doors away.
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The interior design project was carried out by Trestrastos who specialise in innovative design and architectural projects.
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Quails eggs with baked potatoes
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Peas from the Maresme with grilled squid, black butifarra and fennel
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Raspberry Sacher cake
- Semon
- Plaça de Sant Gregori Taumaturg, 6
08021 Barcelona
T 660 63 18 40 - www.semon.es
- ganduxer@semon.es