Barcelona Tapas Restaurant will reopen in Clayton later this month

A longtime Clayton favorite will soon reopen in a new location. Barcelona Tapas Restaurant owner Frank Schmitz said he’s in the final permitting stages and is slated to open for business by the middle of next week, pending permit approvals, at 7810 Forsyth Blvd. after a two-year hiatus.

The new space is about half the size of the original that was at 34 N. Central Ave. at approximately 1,600 square feet, but it feels much like its predecessor. Schmitz has recreated much of the vibe of the original Barcelona, with touches like the original mosaic tabletops and the colorful abstract wall mural, which adds a bit of whimsy to the mix. The restaurant seats approximately 50, including 15 or so seats around the bar and open kitchen, where guests can watch the culinary magic happen.

Despite its smaller size, Barcelona has an expansive menu of all types of bites. Fans will recognize many of the specialties, from the wide array of tapas and charcuterie options to the trio of that ubiquitous Spanish rice delicacy, paellas: paella de mariscos (seafood), paella valenciana (traditional) and Paella de verduras (vegetarian). All are made for serious sharing. Lunchtime offerings include a bevy of hot and cold sandwiches and salads. The big change guests will see menu-wise is the addition of breakfast, which wasn’t available in previous years.

“We did breakfast at Coastal (Coastal Bistro & Bar, Schmitz’s other Clayton eatery that has since shuttered), but not Barcelona,” Schmitz said, adding that he thinks the AM option will appeal to Clayton workers looking for a quality bite on the way to the office. Hearty Spanish skillets (chorizo, vegetarian and chicken) are on hand for big appetites along with a classic egg, bacon and cheese Breaky Sandwich for those looking for a more portable option.

If you’re going to while away the afternoon or evening noshing on tapas, a choice of beverages to pair with your plates is crucial, and Barcelona doesn’t disappoint. Sangria is back in red, white and rosé versions by the glass or pitcher, there’s a wide selection of cocktails and beers, plus a list of Spanish wines, including a selection of Spanish white wines not found on many menus around town, all available by the glass or bottle. 

Barcelona’s hours will be 7 to 10 a.m. for breakfast and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. for tapas Monday through Sunday.