Ever since I was invited to the opening of Rilke by the lovely team from XXL Communications, I’ve been a huge fan. From the secret entrance on Carrer Mallorca, half a block from Passeig de Garcia, to the breathtaking entrance punctuated by one of the best bar set ups in Barcelona, Rilke’s interior recalls a more “classical” era of dining and life.
The service? Top notch. The moment you walk thru the door, you’re greeted and if you’re wearing a jacket due to a more wintery climate, you’re asked right away if you would like to check your coat. Unencumbered dining. That’s a new one for Barcelona. lol. Not only are you greeted by their host/hostess, but you’re also greeted by Colo, one of the best bartenders in the city, who makes my favourite classic martini. And to be honest, he’s the first bartender in a restaurant setting here in Barcelona that I’ve asked for a vodka martini and he knew exactly what I wanted. Normally, I receive a glass full of Martini Vermut. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but it’s not usually what I’m looking for. HA!
But that’s not all. Rilke, whose parent company is also behind the World’s Top 50 bar Paradiso, has a list of innovative and tasty cocktails, from their Bonaparte (a spin on an old fashioned) served in a smoky glass case, to more tropical fairs served on an appropriate presentation board. The details not only in drink composition and quality, but also presentation make Rilke a great spot for not just dinner, but a stop for drinks in the lobby, which is a comfortable set up. Two private booths, comfy centre seating, and a private room for larger groups means more than two can enjoy a cocktail stop. 
Dining? Let’s just say the dining area is “old school Barcelona” with a combination of fine woodwork for the table settings and great linens and fabrics to compliment that 1930s Barcelona vibe. The dining area overlooks an amazing rear terrace, which is open during the summer for cocktails. A copy of Venus de Milo surveys the terrace, and her view anchors what is a fabulous garden, even at night.
The wine list? Some of the best of Catalan wines, from Marco Abella, Venus Universal, Mas Martinet, Vinyes Domenech, L’Ermita, and a cast of others including a cava list with some of the greats from Penedes. I’m usually a sucker for Marco Abella’s Loidana, one of my faves. You also can land some of the more top international and aged vintages, which come from their nifty cellar which has a secret door to one of their private rooms.
The cuisine? A combination of Mediterranean inspired fare, combined with some of the best Catalan ingredients available. Steak tartar, roasted squab, and an Iberian pork which melts in your mouth are just three of the meat entrees, plus their fish selection is also dynamite.
How about large groups? If you’re coming into Barcelona for a conference or a wedding party, Rilke has two private rooms, separated from the dining area for complete and total privacy. One is a classic whisky bar set up, while the other is a darkened wine theme accessible through a secret door in the wine cellar.
Final words? I’m a regular, and I love Rilke. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, an escape from a tough work day, or want to enjoy a cocktails with a group of friends in an elegant setting, this is your place.