Does El Glop Catalunya branch in Barcelona have a long wait during lunchtime?

Yes, there can be a wait at El Glop Catalunya branch during lunchtime, so reservations are recommended. However, the author visited later in the day and was seated immediately without waiting.

What is the price and characteristics of the 'pulpo' (octopus dish) the author ordered at El Glop Catalunya branch?

The 'pulpo' (Octopus Gallician style or on the grill) ordered by the author cost 25.55 euros. This dish features a large grilled octopus combined with a sweet sauce, and the author noted that it was not too chewy.

El Glop has several branches in Barcelona; which one is recommended in this article?

This article recommends the Catalunya branch among El Glop's chain locations. The author visited the Catalunya branch as it was closer than the Gaudi branch.

El Glop Barcelona Review 2026: Must-Try Paella & Octopus

El Glop Barcelona Review 2026: Must-Try Paella & Octopus | TRVLOGUE

El Glop Catalonia Branch: Your Go-To for Paella & Octopus in Barcelona!

By @sue__ryan

Planning a culinary adventure in Barcelona? El Glop is a fantastic choice, especially if you're craving authentic paella or their renowned Galician-style octopus. While it's a chain, the Catalonia branch often receives extra praise from locals and visitors alike.

Expect main dishes to range from ~$19-22 USD.

Paella and octopus are their signature dishes.

The Catalonia branch is highly recommended over other locations.

Lunchtime can get busy, so making a reservation is a smart move to avoid long waits!

1. Discovering El Glop: Barcelona's Octopus Haven

When in Barcelona, indulging in some exquisite seafood is practically a requirement! During my tour, El Glop came highly recommended, and I knew I had to check it out. They have a Gaudi branch and a Catalonia branch; I opted for the Catalonia location as it was conveniently closer to where I was staying.

On my stroll there, I couldn't help but notice how adorable the pastries looked in a local bakery. Of course, I had to snap a quick photo!

I later learned that during peak dining hours, waits can be quite long, and reservations are highly encouraged. Luckily, I arrived a bit later in the evening and was able to walk right in without any wait. Score!

2. El Glop Barcelona Menu Highlights

When I visited, they only had English menus available, and I had to scan a QR code. However, I've heard that as of 2026, they now offer menus in various languages via QR code, including Korean, making it even easier for international guests!

Dining solo, I found myself deliberating over what to order. The top recommendations were black ink paella, 'Pulpo a la Gallega' (Galician-style octopus), and Iberian pork. After much thought, I settled on the octopus.

The specific menu item I chose was "Octopus Gallician style or on the grill," priced at 25.55 Euros (approximately ~$28 USD).

While waiting for my order, I took a moment to look around the restaurant. I even spotted some olive oil from a brand I had just purchased earlier, which was a fun coincidence!

The dining area was quite spacious and relaxed during my late visit, which made it hard to imagine it packed to the brim at lunchtime. It certainly hinted at its popularity! A quick tip for the ladies: the restroom is located on the lower level.

3. The Star of the Show: El Glop's Octopus Dish

Feeling a bit parched, I ordered an orange juice, and it tasted incredibly fresh, almost as if it had been squeezed right then and there. It was absolutely delicious!

Finally, my octopus dish arrived! It was a generously sized, perfectly grilled octopus, served with a slightly sweet and savory sauce. The sheer size of the octopus made it feel like I was cutting into a steak, and I savored each bite. For me, it wasn't overly chewy, but if you have sensitive teeth or prefer very tender dishes, it might be a bit firm for your liking.

After my meal, as I headed to pay, I noticed a cigarette vending machine near the cashier. It's a sight less common in many parts of the U.S. these days, which was quite a throwback!

Despite the slightly cool weather, El Glop also offered outdoor seating. On a pleasant day with a gentle breeze and comfortable temperatures, dining al fresco would undoubtedly add a touch of romance to your Barcelona experience.