A Tu Bola
By Sophie Cameron
© Positiv Light
Opened four years ago in the Raval, these street food pioneers are a local favorite for their innovative and inexpensive “food ball” concept. Founder Shira, an Israeli chef, takes inspiration from her travels to design the various food balls on offer and accompanying sides. Try Caribbean chicken balls with bacon, pineapple & lime coriander sauce; spicy shrimp balls with cauliflower & sesame sauce; or Tandoori lentil balls with stir-fried zucchini & tzatziki (in veggie or vegan versions).
About half of the balls are free of animal products, feeding into Barcelona’s craving for vegetarian food. The meat used in other dishes is sourced form halal butchers, while further ingredients come from local markets including La Boqueria. Wash it all down with a craft beer from BrewDog, Edge or Barcelona Beer Co. A pita with two balls costs €6, a filling plate with three balls plus a side is just €8. Have a seat at the bar at the open kitchen and watch the A Tu Bola chefs work their magic.