The culinary proposal adapts to the seasons and this fall is no exception. Inspired by the golden and ochre colors of nature in the heart of Barcelona, close to the bustle of Passeig de Gràcia, hides an elegant and serene treasure: the restaurant El Jardín del Alma, located inside the Hotel Alma.
Chef Gheorghe Zgardan describes his cuisine as “creative, simple and emotional”. The menu presents a selection of classic dishes reinvented with a special touch, prepared with fresh local products, some of which come from the restaurant’s own vegetable garden in Cabrera de Mar.
At first glance, the neoclassical building might go unnoticed, but the five-star establishment is much more than its discreet facade. Behind the glass door, a staircase leads to a foyer where the light highlights the 130 watercolors hanging from the ceiling, creating a theatrical and tranquil atmosphere.
One of the standout dishes is the seasonal salad, which combines pumpkin, mushrooms, lettuce and a citrus dressing, clearly evoking an autumnal feel. The chef points out that mushrooms are the protagonists at this time, and are presented as suggestions of the day to take advantage of their availability.
The Garden of Soul: a gastronomic oasis
The restaurant is located in a building dating from the 20th century, built on what was once the Champs Elysées garden in 1853. Although progress eliminated much of this urban oasis, it has been partly recovered and now serves as the hotel’s interior garden.
This corner, surrounded by trees and lush plants, is a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, a place where you can enjoy a relaxed chat with friends or a perfect evening with signature cocktails and exquisite dishes.
Zgardan’s creativity is reflected in the preparation of dishes such as cep, which is served Italian-style, thinly sliced, sautéed with oil, pine nuts, pine nut praline, arugula and two types of pepper that give it a spicy touch. In addition, the chef predicts that the pheasant with fennel and cabbage will be a success, as the dishes return empty from the tables.
The menu also encompasses timeless classics, from salt-baked sea bass and steak tartare to crayfish rice. To keep the gastronomic experience alive, a service reminiscent of the old days has been implemented, where waiters would plate at the table, allowing the aromas of the dishes not to be lost in the journey.
Natural harmony
El Jardín del Alma offers you the best plan for this fall. It is the perfect complement to a culinary experience with a charming outdoor space ideal for enjoying unique cocktails. In this urban oasis, stoves provide warmth even on the coldest nights in autumn or winter, allowing diners to relax and revel in the peaceful surroundings.
As if that were not enough, the Alma Hotel, with its Alma Garden, represents more than a place of luxury accommodation. It is a serene refuge in the heart of the city, where elegance and warmth converge to offer a unique experience.
