My favourite cocktail bar in Barcelona is currently Pax 49. I have been to many but I love this place in particular. It has everything I want in a bar: nice decor, amazing cocktails at a reasonable price and a good location.
Great location and trendy decor
The bar is conveniently located in Born, in the city centre. It is a cool place to hang out during a Saturday or a Sunday afternoon, after lunch or after an afternoon shopping. You can chill there alone or with friends.
I cannot share evening experiences because I have never been at night. But given the photos stuck on the wall, near the toilet, it looks like there have been some good parties in that bar. We discovered Pax 49 during the partial confinement when bars closed at 17h. When businesses reopened until late, we kept the tradition of going to Pax 49 in the afternoon .
The bar covers two floors, but I have always stayed on the ground floor. I like to be on the terrace or by the huge door windows. You already know how I like those huge door windows with my posts about Ugot Bruncherie and Granja Petit Bo. And with COVID still going on, I feel more comfortable sitting there.
Those huge windows, the bar’s white tiles, and the suspended lights give the place a trendy and airy feel. Also, the white and black picture on the wall nearing the stairs (which I understand represent the staff) is pretty cool.
So what about the drinks in this cocktail bar in Barcelona?
The menu is eclectic. This means that you can find classic mixed drinks such as Aperol spritz and mojito with craft cocktails with interesting names such as “who loves the sun” or “bittersweet summer”. They also have a nice selection of Gin & Tonics in addition to wine and beer. The prices are quite reasonable. The bloody mary costs 8.50 euros. The G&Ts are between 9 and 12 euros. And a glass of wine, 3.50 euros.
I have tried several cocktails here. They were all good, tasty and well balanced. They were also nicely presented. I remember one pink drink made with lavender, so subtle and fresh. It was a nice surprise. The plant always overpowered most dishes and drinks I tried.
Our group of friends mainly come to Pax 49 to enjoy micheladas. A Mexican drink made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, tomato juice and chile peppers. It is served in a chilled salt-rimmed glass. It is similar to a bloody mary, but it is made with Mexican beers instead of vodka.
The micheladas are not on the menu, but the bartenders make them for us every time we ask for them. I can see them mixing the different ingredients, pouring them in a rimmed glass, and adding the ice cubes. I often feel like I could ask them for any cocktail off the menu, and they would produce it for me. That is the sign of skilled bartenders.
Pax 49’s micheladas are yummy and delicious. They are seasoned the way I like them. They also have a good selection of Mexican beers, making the place even more appealing because we have different tastes. I like my mix with Corona, one friend with Negra Modelo and another one with Modelo especial.
Other info
Foodwise, they have dutch style pica pica (appetizers). Not something I am used to see in any cocktail bar in Barcelona. I never ordered them as I come here to drink only. But, of course, with moderation!
Opening hours
Monday to Friday: 6 pm – 1 am
Saturday to Sunday: 12pm – 1 am
Address: Carrer del Rec, 49. Barcelona 08003
Website here