Stepping into Cafè de l’Òpera is like taking a trip back in time. From the bustling streets of Les Rambles, in the Gothic quarter, you enter a world of the past, reflected in every detail of this café that has preserved its rich historical legacy. But do you know its history? Because before it became a café, Café de l’Òpera housed other businesses… Keep reading to discover a story that takes us 200 years back!
Cafè de l’Òpera: a journey back to the 18th century
Today it is one of the most beautiful historical cafes in the city center of Barcelona, but Cafè de l’Òpera had many other uses before becoming the cafe we know today…
It was originally a tavern/inn in the late 18th century
Cafè de l’ôpera was not originally a cafe: it was more a tavern and inn, also a departure point for carriages to diverse towns and cities.
Mid-19th century: from an inn to a chocolate shop
In 1837, with the inauguration of “Gran Teatre del Liceu”, this place turned from a tavern/inn, into a chocolate shop with Viennese-style decoration and wooden walls with mirrors, unique pieces that have been preserved to this day.
From a chocolate shop to a cafe-restaurant “La Mallorquina”
The changes in the use of the space didn’t stop there. After the chocolate shop, it turned into one of the most elegant restaurants under the name of “La Mallorquina”. It became a meeting point for the aristocracy and high bourgeois in Barcelona.
And finally, in 1929: Cafè de l’Òpera
Finally, in 1929 the building turn into what it is today: a beautiful café, Cafè de l’Òpera. It was remodeled according to the modernist style with some neoclassic touches, by the architect Antoni de Moragas. And from 1929 to this day, this cafe is still one of the most beautiful cafes in Barcelona, capable of taking you back to a wonderful journey to the past.
Address: La Rambla, 74.