The new Barcelona´s Italian “vermuteria” has arrived and it´s Benditto, a local that offers a new gastronomic proposal for enjoying vermouth, a Spanish drink and tradition that still remains present in our society. Although the schedule now allows for vermouth at noon, when it recently opened their timeline was just during the afternoon and evening, which may be a surprise given the concept they offer withtin their hours. With a focus on quality, authenticity, and a unique culinary experience, Benditto has arrived to stay in the gastronomic scene of Barcelona. This new establishment offers us a mix of something beloved by Spaniards, the vermut hour, with a cuisine that is often very successful worldwide: Italian.
A new concept of Barcelona´s italian “vermuteria”
Benditto is the creation of chef Víctor Ferrer, known for his work at restaurants such as “Betlem” and “Café del Centre,” along with his partner, Cati, who is originally from Florence and is an expert in Italian gourmet products. The concept of “vermuteria” in this new establishment goes beyond the usual. While vermouth in Spain is typically enjoyed at noon, Ferrer and Cati, however, wanted to bring to Barcelona instead the Italian tradition of enjoying vermouth usually at the end of the day. The opening schedule of this place surprised the local people since it didn´t match with the usual vermouth hour. That´s how you learn that you can embrace this tradition just the italian way.
Buon appetito!
Although many “vermuterias” in the city focus on simple appetizers, this new Barcelona´s italian “vermuteria” offers a more extensive and strong menu. Moreover, the drink menu stands out the most: over ten types of vermouths to choose from, fermented in different ways and with various flavors. In addition, they offer a wide range of Italian wines that have been imported directly from the country itself.
Regarding food, they specially focus primarily on cold dishes. Customers can savor various options ranging from traditional Spanish dishes to typical Italian. Most of them are transformed into a more gourmet way. For instance, we can enjoy some gildas, a typical spanish vermouth appetizer. Also dishes that are composed of focaccia, italian cheeses like ricotta or some seafood like mussels, which are commonly seen in vermuterias. Moreover, there’s a selection of Italian cold cuts that goes beyond the traditional offerings, and it can surprise some people by discovering some products that they may not have known existed. For example, they have the option to enjoy the capocollo or the Tuscan salame `la Sbriciolana´, two cold meats that are rare to find in Spain.
The designs
Furthermore, the design of the establishment is another strong point. Benditto emphasizes a lively but elegant atmosphere, adorned with pop posters that evoke the concept of ‘la dolce vita.’ The space is cozy; although small.. With plenty of tables, most of which are tall and designed with stools covered in velvet, making them more comfortable. There is an outdoor terrace with a few tables that usually fill up quickly, but there’s also a small bar top outside the venue without stools, allowing people to enjoy their vermouth in the traditional way: standing. Inside, there is a well-maintained bar where guests can observe the preparation of some dishes and the hidden décor behind it.