The Eixample district is about beautiful architecture, great shopping and wealth; and there is no better place to ponder all this than Mauri, a traditional saló de té that has been serving the good families of the Eixample since 1929. The best time to come is Sunday morning for a light brunch of dainty canapés or finger sandwiches, or pop in around five in the afternoon, when fur-coated matrons are enjoying a traditional merienda (afternoon tea).

Mauri also has a delicatessen section, with all manner of local chesses and chacuterie are sold, as well as plats preparats of classic Catalan dishes such as ‘black’ rice, Russian salad and espinacs a la catalana. They aren’t cheap, but come in handy if you want to dine at home in style.