Discovering Spain Through Dua Lipa’s Favorite Spots
Through her collaboration with Google Maps and Service95, Dua Lipa has shared personal lists packed with her favorite spots for food, date nights, and natural wine. For anyone planning a trip or already living in Spain, these recommendations offer a delightful mix of historic institutions, contemporary kitchens, and hidden local gems.
Barcelona: Tapas, Natural Wine, and Long Dinners
Barcelona’s food scene is vibrant and ever-evolving, yet it remains deeply rooted in its Catalan heritage. Dua’s selections in this city range from classic tapas bars to modern Catalan dining experiences.
Bar Cañete – Classic Tapas Since 1935
On her “Chill Dinners & Snacks” list, Dua describes Bar Cañete as “old-school tapas with confidence.” This beloved establishment has been serving patrons since 1935, making it a cornerstone of Barcelona’s culinary landscape.
The atmosphere is quintessentially tapas: counter seating, quick-footed staff, and a menu that celebrates high-quality produce. Expect to indulge in Iberian ham, white anchovies, and a refreshing glass of wine. In a city where restaurants come and go, Bar Cañete’s longevity speaks volumes about its reputation for serving some of the best traditional tapas in Barcelona.
Gresca – Modern Catalan Cooking for a Date Night
Dua highlights Gresca on her “Date Nights To Remember” list, praising its natural wine selection and “modern Catalan cooking done in a way that feels effortless.” Located in the Eixample district, Gresca combines structure and creativity, utilizing seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques.
Catalan cuisine deserves its own spotlight, and at Gresca, you’ll find local ingredients like calçots (sweet spring onions) and fresh seafood from the nearby coast. The restaurant’s tasting menus promise to restore your faith in fine dining, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening.
Bar Brutal – Trust the Wine List
Dua includes Bar Brutal on her “Natural Wine Bars” list, offering a simple yet profound instruction: trust whoever’s behind the bar. Known for its low-intervention wines from small producers, Bar Brutal is a pioneer of the natural wine movement in Barcelona.
Located in the atmospheric El Born district, this bar invites you to savor charred squid while leaving the wine selection in the capable hands of the staff. It’s a place where the ambiance and quality of wine create a memorable experience.
Madrid: Late Nights, Flamenco, and Counter Dining
Madrid’s culinary scene thrives on late-night dining, with dinner often starting after 9 PM. Dua’s picks reflect this vibrant culture.
Chocolatería San Ginés – Churros After Midnight
Dua calls the churros with hot chocolate at San Ginés “one of the great food rituals of the world.” Open since 1894 and located near Puerta del Sol, this café is the perfect late-night stop.
The café buzzes with a mix of night-shift workers, theatre-goers, and party enthusiasts, embodying Madrid’s late-night culture. Stopping by at 12:30 AM feels entirely normal, and indulging in churros here is a must for anyone experiencing the city.
Corral de la Morería – Dinner and a Flamenco Show
On her date-night list, Dua highlights Corral de la Morería, one of Madrid’s most iconic tablaos. Here, you can enjoy a meal before the flamenco show begins, creating a structured yet immersive experience.
While it may not be the cheapest option in the city, the combination of exquisite dining and top-notch flamenco performances makes it a worthwhile investment for a memorable night out.
Sala de Despiece (SDD1) – High-Energy Counter Dining
Dua describes Sala de Despiece as unlike anywhere else. The concept revolves around standing at the counter, pointing at what you want, and receiving it in seconds. This fast-paced format creates an electric atmosphere.
With an aesthetic reminiscent of a butcher’s workshop, the restaurant features tiled walls and stainless steel surfaces. The food, however, is refined and focused on high-quality ingredients, perfectly aligning with Madrid’s appetite for lively, informal dining experiences.
Ibiza: A Local Counterpoint to the Party Image
While Ibiza is globally known for its superclubs and beach parties, Dua’s recommendation takes a different approach.
Can Gourmet – A Local Food Secret
On her “Chill Dinners & Snacks” list, Dua describes Can Gourmet as a local secret, perfect for a picnic or late-night bite. She praises its selection of local cheese, cured meats, and fresh bread, calling it an antidote to the more obvious side of the island.
Located in Ibiza Town, this spot emphasizes quality produce over spectacle, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich agricultural tradition. Visiting Can Gourmet allows you to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Ibiza.
How to Use Dua Lipa’s Google Maps Lists for Your Own Trip
Dua Lipa’s travel lists are available on the Google blog. These lists include personal notes and photos, allowing you to save the spots to your own map when you open them in the Google Maps app.
For anyone looking to explore Spain, Dua’s curated selections provide a fantastic starting point, blending her personal favorites with the rich culinary landscape of the country.
