Streetlife: Carrer dels Lledó/Baixada de Viladecols
-
Cafè de L’acadèmia
This authentic Catalan bistro, complete with wooden beams, stone walls and a terrace, situated in the historic Plaça Sant Just, oozes tradition from the decor to the cuisine. The restaurant was opened in 1989 by the grandson of Agustí Agut who, in 1924, started the family tradition when he opened L’Agut restaurant on Carrer d’en Gignàs. Popular dishes include grilled Catalan sausage, raw marinated cod with romesco sauce and grilled squid, and the menú del día is a favourite among workers in the neighbourhood.
-
La Clandestina
La Clastendina is a hidden gem offering an intriguing place to relax and unwind or catch up with friends, and is popular amongst students as a quiet spot to study. The cosy cafe radiates Arabic and Asian influence, in its exotic array of aromatic teas, including Massala Chai, Moroccan Green and Jasmine, lassis made from natural fruit, and a selection of shishas. The menu also provides a variety of healthy juices, homemade cakes, sandwiches and paninis. The quirky ambience makes it the ideal backdrop for exhibitions by local artists, which change monthly.
-
Ndorfina
Celebrating local fashion design, Ndorfina offers a range of clothing lines from exclusive brands handmade in the city. Inside the shop, exposed brick walls, large leather chairs and jewellery cabinets channel a vintage theme, in keeping with the street’s bohemian vibe. Since it opened over 10 years ago, the unique products, local work and personal shopping experience at Ndorfina have attracted an array of regular clients. It has also become popular amongst tourists in search of something different, and offers a selection of humorous postcards and souvenirs.
-
Swiit
A play on the word ‘sweet’, this new ice-cream parlour emanates creativity, from the decor to the experimental flavours, such as ‘violet’ and ‘mascarpone with figs’. The owners, Tracy from the US and Giovanni from Italy, felt it was important to “keep the spirit” of the building, which was once an old print shop—their graphic design backgrounds are clearly expressed in the bold artwork behind the counter and the retro seating area overlooking the Roman walls and square outside. The ice-cream is made using organic milk from Catalan farms, fairtrade ingredients and seasonal fruits with no preservatives, to create intense flavours and creamy textures.