Restaurante Cheriff has been delighting locals and visitors with authentic Mediterranean seafood and its famed paellas since 1959. Founded by Pedro Ruipérez, affectionately nicknamed “Cheriff” for his love of Wild West attire, this family-run restaurant grew from a humble fish stall into one of Barcelona’s most cherished culinary institutions.
Situated on Carrer de Ginebra in the heart of Barceloneta, the city’s historic fishermen’s district, Cheriff remains deeply rooted in its maritime heritage. Fresh fish and seafood are sourced daily from local boats docking at the nearby Moll de la Planxeta harbor.
Origins and Legacy
Pedro’s larger-than-life persona, complete with gun holster and sombrero, won over the community and helped transform his tiny fishmonger’s stall into a beloved restaurant. In the 1980s, his family expanded their culinary ventures with the sibling restaurant Lobito, while his daughter María de los Ángeles, lovingly known as “Nini,” kept Cheriff’s kitchen thriving for decades.
In 2016, the Iborra Restaurant Group took the helm, merging Cheriff’s legacy with their renowned Elche restaurant while preserving its signature paellas and neighborhood character. Today, the family’s tradition continues, with Cheriff’s daughter and son-in-law welcoming diners into a warm, casual space lined with photos and mementos of its storied past.
Cuisine and Signature Dishes
At the heart of Cheriff’s menu is its legendary paella, a dish that has defined the restaurant for generations. Regulars and newcomers alike praise its perfectly cooked rice, rich stock, and ultra-fresh seafood, with many calling it the best paella in Barcelona. Signature dishes include the Paella de Marisco Pelada (peeled seafood paella), the house Paella del Cheriff with Galician clams and espardeñas, black rice with cuttlefish, and fideuà (a noodle-based twist on classic paella). Alongside these, the menu offers seafood tapas like gambas croquettes, steamed mussels, clams “a la marinera,” and fried calamari.
Ambience and Design
In 2019, Barcelona’s acclaimed Mesura studio gave Cheriff a thoughtful renovation that blends its maritime roots with a fresh, modern feel. Terrazzo floors, recycled original materials, warm wood accents, and naval blue hues echo Barceloneta’s fishing legacy, while gently curved interiors create a cozy yet contemporary space. The result is an atmosphere Mesura calls “intellectual elegance”, timeless and intimate.
Practical Details
Neighborhood: Barceloneta
Address: Carrer de Ginebra, 15 Barcelona 08003 | View Map
Nearest Metro: Barceloneta (L4)
Phone: +34 93 319 69 84