A decade after redefining Britain’s most famous fast food for Barcelona, the Alam brothers have unveiled a new chapter in their culinary journey with the launch of Fish Bar.
The restaurant, located on Carrer Balmes, builds on the cult success of their original venture, The Fish & Chips Shop, which quickly became known for serving golden, feather-light battered hake with homemade sauces.
But Fish Bar, they say, aims to go “beyond fish and chips”, inspired by Copenhagen’s seafood dining scene. Diners can still order the signature dish, served with tartare and mango chutney, but the menu now stretches further: cured gilthead bream, seared octopus, calamari brioche and a panko-coated fish burger are among the highlights.
Heading the kitchen is Maxim Polsikov, previously of Michelin-starred Àurt, while the front-of-house is led by Nicolás Raffo, who promises a relaxed, lively atmosphere. The menu is paired with a short but adventurous wine list, with a tilt towards natural producers.
The Alam brothers’ small empire has also grown well beyond fried fish. In the past decade they have expanded into tacos al pastor, kebabs, burgers and even a Cuban sandwich bar. Yet their first love remains seafood — and Fish Bar, with an average menu price of around €25 excluding wine, is pitched as the most complete expression of their culinary vision.
If the formula succeeds, Fish Bar could mark the beginning of another ten years of reinvention for one of Barcelona’s most original restaurant groups.
Source: El Periodico
