This post may contain affiliate links.
Situated in the lively Poble Sec neighborhood near Paral·lel, Restaurant Elche has been delighting rice lovers since 1959. The restaurant was founded by Andrés Iborra and Carmen Vicente, who named it after their hometown of Elche in the province of Alicante. The restaurant quickly earned a loyal following among locals, theatregoers, and celebrities. Today, it remains a beloved Barcelona institution, renowned for its authentic Levantine paella and traditional rice dishes.
Origins and Legacy
When Andrés and Carmen first opened Elche, they transformed a modest bar-restaurant into Barcelona’s first specialist in paella and rice. Drawing on Carmen’s cherished family recipes from Spain’s eastern coast, the restaurant attracted artists and performers from the nearby Paral·lel theatre district, who were drawn to its warm atmosphere and traditional flavors. Over more than sixty years, the Iborra family has kept the restaurant true to its roots, passing it down to their sons Eduardo and Andrés, who continue to preserve its original spirit.
Signature Cuisine
Restaurant Elche is famed for its outstanding paella and fideuà, with signature dishes like the Arròs Negre d’Elx (black rice with squid and artichokes) highly recommended by regulars. Other highlights include the Paella con Bacalao y Ceps (Cod and Mushroom Paella), alongside seasonal seafood and classic croquettes. A crisp Verdejo or Catalan Priorat is the perfect pairing to complete the experience.
Opening Hours: 13:00 to 16:00 and 19:00 to 00:00
Neighborhood: El Poble Sec
Address: Carrer de Vila i Vilà, 71, 08004 Barcelona, Spain | View Map
Nearest Metro: Paral·lel (L2)
Phone: +34 934 41 30 89
Website: elcherestaurant.es