Spain/Portugal/Gibraltar - Barcelona foodie question: Cinc Sentits or Alkimia?

Hi there

I am going to Barcelona for the first time in a few weeks for a long weekend. My question is this. If I only have time for one, should I try to get a table at Cinc Sentits or at Alkimia? Both sound like the offer modern takes on Catalan food in a nice setting. Your thoughts?

Also, while I am interested in upscale restaurants like the ones above, I am also open to any other suggestions, from street food and modest holes-in-the-wall on up.

Thanks for your insight.

Really? No one?

I thought Barcelona would be a popular destination and you'd have loads of advice.

Ah, well. I'm sure I'll manage.

I didn't want to answer because I have never been to Alkimia.

But you can't go wrong with Cinc Sentits. I have been there several times over the last few years and it is one of my choices if I need a place for a special occasion (and if "modern Catalan cuisine" is appropriate).

However, I have not been there since they have their Michelin star, so I don't know how that has affected things (price, quality, availability,...)

Strangely enough, I had completely forgotten about Alkimia until your post.

About your other question: there is no street food in Barcelona. And for other suggestions: are you looking strictly for Spanish / Catalan food? (I guess you are not looking for Italian or Sushi.)

Thank you, Koby. I'm hoping to have time to do both, but Cinc Sentits sounds perfect.

No, I don't think I'll seek out Italian food (or Japanese for that matter). But simple places that serve good local specialties would be perfect. Also, I love exploring fresh food markets, so if you have any of those to recommend, please let me know. I'll have an apartment in the Born, so I may even have time to do some cooking.

A little bit after the fact, but I just wanted to say that I loved Cinc Sentits. Excellent service and excellent food. My only regret is that I didn't have time to try the other (less Catalan) tasting menu as well. Ah, well. That will go on my (ever-growing) list of excuses for going back to Barcelona soon.

I've only been to Alkimia but I was pretty impressed. We tried the 15 course sample menu and it was really good and inventive. The service could be better though, it seemed off - cutlery cleaning right under our noses, bringing food to table while people were in the restroom and the obviously fake smiles. But I was there in October and I still think fondly of the meal.

These pictures give a pretty good idea (not mine):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/loremipsum/sets/72157603924704627/

Thanks, maarit! Yet another good reason to go back to Barcelona...

One point more for Alkimia, it's a good site!!