A great place to kick start any evening in Barcelona is La Champaneria, a true Catalan original. You can get a drink here but it's not exactly a bar, or a pub. You can eat here, but it's like no restaurant you've ever been to before. There's never any music in the place, but it has a particular atmosphere that means this doesn't really matter. Located in the port area, close to La Barceloneta Metro Station, La Champaneria is nearly always packed with people - when it's full you have to shout at the bartender to order your food, and then wait as hundreds pass your plate over to you. The name comes from the drink of choice, Cava and the golden rule is that you can get a free glass but only if you eat. Choose from a selection of delicious cured meats, cheeses and bocadillos (sandwiches) to accompany your drink and soak up the ambience. If you get there early (before 7pm) you can avoid the crowds, but somehow the raucous atmosphere is what this place is about. Either way, it's a fantastic place to kick start a night out before you hit the clubs.