A wonderful dining experience in a clean, well appointed restaurant in the outskirts of Albany. Easy to find with plenty of parking on and off the street - corner lot. Service was prompt and thorough. Menu has many great dishes. I had veal parmigiana which was delicious and tender. Husband had an authentic shrimp and pasta dish. This was a pleasant dinner. My only comment that might be negative is the price was a little steep For 2$' signs. Dinners were more closer to 3$'s. read more

I've been to barcelona a handful of times and never had a bad meal. That being said - I also can't remember what I've eaten here before. Probably a pasta dish, I'm such a pasta girl it's ridiculous. The inside of the restaurant is really cute and tastefully decorated. I'd definitely recommend it for a date. They have outdoor dinning on the upstairs deck which is really nice! It always bothered me that the sign says "Mediterranean American" and then under it "Italian cuisine" and the name is Barcelona.... SO confusing, but don't hold that against it! read more

Nice place very cute inside. We sat down right away on a Sunday evening. We started off with the escargot wow that was amazing better than expected. I ordered the paella which was eh tasted like rice came from the box like uncle bens or something and the seafood was super rubbery not enjoyable came with a tiny "lobster" I wouldn't call it that . On a side note my husband got the lamb and my god it was good! It was so tender and that sauce was wonderful! I would definitely come back but don't think I would get another rice dish! We also ended the note with flan which was soooo good highly recommend! read more

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Food was great, we came in on a Friday for lunch service. Susan was our waitress. Service was good. We tried the clams, cooked perfect and most importantly no sand in them. We also had the tomato and mozzarella. We tried the seafood pasta and the salmon Barcelona both cooked perfect. read more

Barcelona makes great paella and sangria! This was my second time here and both times I've said I enjoyed the sangria. The first paella was better than the second visit. The steaks are under-seasoned but tender and juicy. We were seated upstairs and it was pretty hot. The AC was turned on but did not cool down the space. Overall, we would come back but not rushing. read more

Had dinner at Barcelona recently. Great food, not the run of the mill Spanish fare and the service was superb. Relaxed atmosphere they did not rush u even though they were crowded. This Restaurant is in a house and the atmosphere and detail to the simple yet elegant decor made us feel as if u were dining in a friend's home rather than a Restaurant. Definatley will be back and am recommending to all my friend's who now have children attending nearby colleges. As I said we will definitely be back even though we r from Long Island. It's worth the trip to the Capital! read more

Visited for a spur the moment birthday lunch with my father and was not disappointed. I looked at their menu online and at other yelp reviews and photos as soon as my dad told me he wanted to check it out, and these made me even more excited to go. I feel that they probably deserve 3.5 stars based on my visit due to a couple of things that I think could be improved upon, but overall I was pleased and will be going back in the future. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a friendly gentleman who brought us to a quaint and homey dining area, that had large windows overlooking Western Avenue. I really enjoyed the natural lighting and the cozy, Mediterranean feel of the space. The man who brought us to our table also happened to be our server. We were served cold glasses of water immediately upon being seated, and our server let us know what the wine and lunch specials were. We took him up on the wine special, which was a Spanish wine with hints of cherry, which turned out to be very smooth. Only complaint was that the pour wasn't very generous. The glasses were huge, so there should have been a little bit more occupying the space in the glass. We also noticed looking around the restaurant that none of the tables had any bread or salads to go along with their lunches. I think having those items included would provide a better value, especially since the prices for entrees on their menu in the restaurant were a few dollars more expensive than the menu listed online. We did end up asking our server if they had any bread to provide, and we were brought a few pieces with butter, as well as an olive oil tapenade. The bread was crispy and delicious, and the oil was very good as well. Just wish we didn't have to ask for it. A spoon to serve the tapenade would have also been helpful. My father ordered the Tuna Mediterranean, which came with saffron rice and vegetables and was topped with a pesto drizzle. The veggies on his dish looked extremely fresh, and he concurred that they were. I opted for the chicken paella, which also included chorizo, and had veggies mixed throughout. The dish was very flavorful and filling. We glanced at the dessert menu, but decided we were both full, and opted not to get anything. I would probably try the Tres Leches the next go around. Two lunches and two glasses of wine came to $47 before any tip. As I mentioned, the ambiance and food itself were great, I just think there are a few things they could do to add more value to their customers. But, overall, I was very satisfied and will be back to try some other options. read more

We are so glad we decided to try this lovely restaurant. The ambiance is great with very comfortable chairs and not freezing cold like some places. The food was exceptional. My husband had the red snapper and I had the Chicken Mediterranean. We are anxious to return and try some tapas at the bar. Service was excellent. read more

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Hooked the moment I sat down and tried the olive oil with peppers and olives on their bread. Parking is hard when the place is at capacity and several neighboring businesses are in the habit of towing since they all compete for the few spaces available. Quantity: 8/10 Quality: 9/10 read more

Went to a graduation at University of Albany and this restaurant was conveniently located so I decided to have a quick bite here before returning back to the City. The fish tacos were delicious and the lightly fried pita with dip was also pretty good. read more

Barcelona - Fried pita. I prefer non fried, but this was tasty. - Mediterranean Near Me - Albany, New York

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Authentic flavors, cute interior with background soothing instrumental music. The lightly fried calamari are super tender (thus fresh). The special lobster ravioli with tomato sauce are delicate with a balanced flavor. read more

Came here on a whim for the first time, and couldn't be happier. The calamari was phenomenal (although the service size was a tad small). We ordered the Veal Daniel & Tilapia Perez, both of which were amazing. The staff was super friendly as well with great service read more

My wife and I decided to dine with another couple who suggested Barcelona. We hadn't been there in quite awhile, so we weren't sure what to expect. We ended up having a delightful meal experience. Our wait person was friendly and knowledgeable. She paced the meal well and we never felt rushed. After some perfect cocktails, we ordered. Prices are very reasonable and the selection is extensive. Lots of seafood and vegetarian options which pleased my wife. She had red snapper with clams and mussels, which she loved. I had the Veal Daniel, which was excellent. Portions are substantial and include a salad. Desserts were also outstanding. We had the vanilla and chocolate tres leche and some of the best coffee we've had in a local restaurant. Service is great and the atmosphere is warm, cozy and relaxed. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and have vowed to return soon. read more

Excellent atmosphere and phenomenal food. The service was friendly and prompt. We loved the butternut squash entree - highly recommended! Our server was wonderful and very accommodating. I'd happily suggest Barcelona to any friends and family looking for a nice, quiet night out! read more

Barcelona - Butternut Squash Ravioli - Mediterranean Near Me - Albany, New York

James is an excellent waiter. This is our favorite restaurant in the Albany area. Paella is spot on. Tres leches cake is moist and delicious. My husband had the swordfish. Fresh and tasty. House wines are great. There is always like 10 things I want to eat on the menu. read more

Food was fresh and delicious! Had the clams, bruschetta and calamari appetizers. Entrees were all nicely presented. Portion was lunch size, which was plenty and very fairly priced. All great! Atmosphere was nice. We were one of two parties there for lunch. Service was good. I would definitely return for more read more

We returned to Barcelona and we're not disappointed. Great food and very accommodating. The staff was excellent and the food came out promptly. The atmosphere is delightful and the food tasty. read more

I have passed this restaurant many times traveling Western Ave in Albany. Always intending to visit. As yesterday was our wedding anniversary and we wanted to try someplace new, we ate at Barcelona. The restaurant is a converted house and as such has all the charm and coziness expected. Nice decor and ambience, good service from our wait person (Annie) and great food. I'm a Brooklyn kid, so I know seafood. My Seafood Alfredo was excellent and my wife had Chicken ala Vodka. OK, it ain't cheap but was worth every penny. Barcelona is a very good VALUE in the dining experience. It kinda looks too fancy from the outside but don't be fooled, it's really down to earth, cozy and friendly. We will return. Not just for an anniversary. Well done Barcelona! read more

I had the chicken paella. At $19.95, I felt that it was a bit pricey for what I got. Fair amount of chicken in the dish. Not enough sausage, red peppers and peas. Tasty and mildly spicy overall. Our server was a pleasant young woman that kept filling our bread basket and water glasses. My sister ordered a glass of Sangria which was tasteless. Outrageous at $8 for a goblet of wine that was half full and half ice. read more

I had a great experience here. The food was very good, and I loved the rolls that came with dinner. The service was good, and I liked the restaurant interior. They also have a rooftop bar! read more

My first visit to Barcelona was with friends while travelling. The service, food, atmosphere and decor were all excellent. Vegetarian options were creative and fresh, and traditional Mediterranean choices were perfectly seasoned and prepared. We all agreed we will visit Barcelona again ! read more

Service really was the biggest problem. We arrived a few minutes before our reservation time, the hostess station was empty. The hostess was serving drinks behind the bar, we waited for nearly 20 minutes to be seated. Once we were seated the time between courses was far too long. One of the salads was served with a rotten cherry tomato. We ordered the filet and tilapia which was served with a lobster tail on top, it was so over cooked it could not be removed from the shell. Medley of mixed veg on both plates were ice cold. Water glasses and beverages were not refilled. There were a few items on the tapas menu (listed on the blackboard behind the bar) and specials were never knew about. Upsides, the steak was prepared well, and as ordered and the red sangria was also very good. There is good potential for this establishment to be great, but it fell far short and we will most likely not return. read more

This is one of my family's favorite restaurants in the area. We have never had a bad meal. Food is delicious every time. Staff is always friendly and accommodating as well. Nice variety of Spanish and Italian wines by the glass. read more

Barcelona - Mediterranean Near Me - Albany, New York

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I tried Barcelona for the first time tonight. I was with a group of 6 and we were able to get a table with no problem just by calling ahead by 15 minutes. My group had attended an event earlier in the evening at the University at Albany and we wanted something close and well rated. We were not disappointed. Only one of the six of us had been here before, first time for five of us. Everything was wonderful. I had the spicy rice and black beans and added chicken. I opted for medium spice and it was perfect. Shared appetizers were a hit too. We sampled the chorizo and the fried calamari. Perfect. We also ordered the butternut squash ravioli and the group shared it. Everyone loved it. Service was great and efficient. We didn't get there until 9:30pm and they close at 11, but they didn't make us feel rushed and we left around 11:30. Really good experience. Can't wait to go back again. read more

Drove from Woodstock, since I read so many positive reviews. I wasn't disappointed. I loved the ambiance, certainly FELT like I was transported back in Spain, or at least somewhere Mediterranean. We didn't have a reservation, forgot to make one on a Saturday; but we were the early crowd and service was quick and friendly. Because I had been craving paella lately, I had their seafood paella, much better than some I had in NYC, and since I can't make paella at home...gotta have the highly recommended version from outdoors! Very tasty. Their broccoli soup was delicious. They even gave me a free dessert since I drove there for my bday...I will go back again to bring my wife, whom is a huge seafood and paella fan. read more

Great food and cozy atmosphere. Nice salad and bread to start and the olive oil tapenade was great . The shrimp fra Diablo was spicy and delicious. Pork tenderloin was a little disappointing. Pesto was a little on the bland side. Overall, a nice spot. read more

We tried to eat here at 530 on a Monday night with a party of 3. They were almost completely empty--we could only see one table seated, with a ton of empty tables. The manager told us we could only be seated if we were out by 7 because the table was reserved at 7, even though the place was almost completely empty. Wildly rude and we will not be returning. read more

My new favorite restaurant in the capital region besides Cafe Italia. Mediterranean style with Spanish emphasis. Whenever I go I have difficulty choosing an appetizer, entrée, or dessert because so many sound wonderful. I have never been disappointed and they have a lovely upper level deckf for outside dining. It is a little noisy over Western Zach. but if you go later in the evening, not too bad. Give it a try! read more

I've dined at Barcelona twice in the past two weeks as I scramble to use up some of my Entertainment cards which expire November 1st. Also, I've had a hankering for seafood paella that past few months. This review will seek to combine my two experiences to arrive at a general conclusion. Both visits were on weeknights, one was fairly busy (a Tuesday), the other was almost empty (a Monday). A call ahead to check seating availability is probably always a good idea, because the dining area is pretty small. I absolutely love the ambiance in Barcelona. Small and quaint, a bar that is lovely and just far enough way from the dining area, varying floor materials (hardwood in hostess area, marble-colored tile in dining area), great paint job. Overall, a fairly authentic European atmosphere, mostly Spanish-inspired. It's a great restaurant to bring a date. Service was outstanding both times. Due to the small nature of the restaurant, you never find yourself waiting for your waitperson. They were right on top of beverage refills, which is big for me because I typically go through 4-5 glasses of ice water during my meals. Wine list is quite nice and not too pricey. Several very drinkable wines in the $25-$30/bottle range. Not a huge selection, but it appears they put some good thought into the wines that they make available. The rolls are okay (first time were good, second time were very hard), but the dipping oil that comes with the bread is outstanding. Basically olive oil with some chunky mixture of olives and roasted red peppers thrown in for good measure. Delicious! The meals are pricey for what you get - it seems that 80% of the meals are priced between $18 and $23. This is somewhat mitigated by the fact that each entree comes with a very fresh and lovely side salad (which they happily COVER with crumbled blue cheese if you ask). I managed to get a taste of five different entrees during my two visits. They appear below with some comments: 1. Seafood paella - $30, had all the right ingredients, but didn't have a great 'cohesiveness'. The saffron rice (which comes with many of the dishes on the menu) lacks flavor, IMO. The saffron does come through, but just barely. The seafood was all good, but it tasted more like they cooked the rice and seafood separately, then just put the seafood on top of the rice. The chorizo was a 6 out of 10; I didn't get much of the smoky paprika flavor I'm used to getting with chorizo. Overall the weakest dish compared to expectations. 2. Zarzuela - $30, absolutely delicious. Same seafood as above served in a slightly-spicy red broth. I could dip bread in that broth all night and walk away a happy patron. 3. Drunken Swordfish - $21ish. The fish was incredibly tender and flaky, and the chunky mixture of tomatoes/onions/garlic was delicious. The rice was same as above, but seemed to work better with this dish. Also great flavor from the tequila and lime added to the dish. This dish most exceeded my expectations. 4. Chicken Enchiladas - $19. Overall a 7.5 out of 10. Rice same as above, chcken was very good (not shredded, but rather 'chunked'). The mole sauce was great, but I thought the dish could have used a lot more of it. With more mole, I think the dish would have been an 8.5 out of 10. 5. Butternut squash ravioli - $19. Portion size was relatively small compared to other dishes on the menu. The tomato/cream sauce was a 9 out of 10, and the ravioli filling was also a 9 out of 10. GREAT dish. I can see charging $30 for the two seafood dishes, but the other three dishes were overpriced. I think a fair price would have been $18 for the swordfish, and $15 for the enchiladas and ravioli. Fortunately, we had the Entertainment card to chop the bill by $17 each time. I did not try dessert either time. I'd go back here often with the Entertainment card, but I probably would never go if I had to pay full price. If I do not consider price, I think the restaurant is a solid 4.5 stars. Factoring in price, I arrive at a 4-star rating. read more

Had to walk out last night. Last time I checked, a reservation meant that your table would be ready at the agreed upon time- not that you will be forced to wait nearly an hour to be seated without any offer for a comped drink or app. When we were eventually seated, the servers were around but not interested in taking our orders. After about 10 more minutes, we chalked this up as a loss, paid for our drinks, and headed out. We will not be returning. If you're thinking about trying this place out, here's a list of better places to eat in Albany instead. Wine Bar New World Bistro Mingle Phoenicians Athos read more

I wanted to love it, but the calamari was undercooked, bruschetta was thick and doughy, veal parm was bland and watery. The "drunken swordfish" was just okay- pretty fishy and the sauce was just one note tasted like old cayenne. The only good thing was the service (thanks Katie!). It was a special occasion for us so we were really disappointed. Whoever they buys their deserts from does a great job though! Generally really overpriced for mediocre food." read more

Been coming to Barcelona for more than 10 years, good quality Spanish (mainly)/Italian restaurant. Swordfish was tasty with olives, potatoes and a tangy sauce bruschetta, calamari and beef tacos for starters were good. Tiramisu was a good end to the meal. Good for groups. read more

Good food but WORST MANAGEMENT EVER!!! will not be returning sadly. The owner made us wait 40 minutes after our reservation, during that time she sat a party of that came in 20 minutes after us. After finally being seated we were told we would have to wait for our order to be taken. Yet 3 servers passed our table. The only good part about that place was the bartender who was the only person who apologised for her bosses terrible and rude service. read more

I was a guest here with a large party. We didn't have a reservation, but we arrived fairly early on a weekday. I was impressed with how quickly they were able to set up a nice table upstairs for us. We all enjoyed our meals and their good wine selection. The owner was very attentive and energetic and prices were reasonable. read more

Gave this a second shot. Still no improvement at all. The steak wasn't great, nor was the chicken, or the fish (again!). Let me cut to the chase: Disaster. Its not authentic Spanish food (please for the love of God, Spanish means from Spain, not Mexico, not anywhere else). It tries to be this weird blend of Italian/Medditerranean/Spanish mix that ends up no where. It's not creative, it's not high quality...and most of all, it's not delicious. A signature Spanish dish, the paella, should be fantastic at the very least. It was overcooked, mushy, flavors were bland and homogenous. Honestly, an unexpected place to get GREAT paella is Ginger Man (who'd ever think?!). Fire the chef. The owner needs to seriously reevaluate everything. Service is marginal at best too. It has great potential interior-wise. Food-wise, go elsewhere. read more

We are here for a long weekend and found this place through Yelp. It was a great find! The sangria was very good, both the red and the white. Everything from the appetizer to the dessert was delish. The servers were very nice and attentive. My only complaint (if you could call it that) was that the cappuccino was not hot...I like my coffee hot. Other than that, it was great. I highly recommend Barcelona if you are in the Albany area! read more

My boyfriend and I ordered the seafood paella and chicken paella. They tasted great as we expected. read more

Barcelona - Seafood paella - Mediterranean Near Me - Albany, New York

A little small so make sure you make a reservation especially on weekends. Food is phenomenal, service is excellent and I've never been disappointed. One of my favorite places. So many good things on their menu but I recommend the butternut squash ravioli its amazing. read more

A fantastic experience. What I loved most is that this place feels like a real restaurant with a soul. I never felt like i was being swindled by strategically priced menu items etc. It's all about the food and no BS. I got the seafood paella which was seriously great and my wife got the red snapper...also seriously great. Crab cakes were awesome and huge. Black bean and rice soup was so good. The complimentary bread and tapenade was great too. The service was excellent and We both really felt at home. Nice bar. Clean bathrooms. Nice ambiance in the dining room. Will be back. read more

Excellent food and service but noise level is off the charts. The last 3 times I have been there (all mid-week nights), they have seated a large loud party right in the middle of the dining room. There is no sound buffering in the dining room at all, so everything is magnified and other people have to practically shout to their dinner companions to be heard, which of course raises the noise level even more. This used to be a semi-quiet romantic place to dine, but not any more. They seem to be catering to big groups downstairs now, even though there are two private dining areas upstairs. A big improvement would be the addition of noise buffering materials (curtains, tablecloths, etc.) Even a cork material under the table tops would help. Perhaps they could put the larger groups in a corner or behind a screen if they cannot be accommodated upstairs. read more