Streetlife: Joaquín Costa

Named after the economist and liberal politician of the same name, Joaquín Costa is a hub of activity. Located in the Raval, both young and old flock here for the eclectic range of bars, shops and cafes, along with an abundance of new businesses setting up shop along the pedestrian-friendly street. The diversity of the area means it’s the perfect place for a stroll and a bit of people watching.

LES TOPETTES. Joaquín Costa 33.

Allow your sense of smell to guide you to this perfumery and cosmetics shop. The aim of Les Topettes is to offer a personalised alternative to the usual commercial cosmetics experience. The bright and airy space hosts a range of high quality beauty products from international brands, including Diptyque, Tokyomilk and Hierbas de Ibiza.

KOMO EN KASA. Joaquín Costa 3.

The name Komo en Casa, explains owner Gustavo Eguia, means two things: ‘eat at home’ and ‘feel at home’, both of which apply to this quaint corner eatery. “The idea is to make people feel at home”, whether sipping a coffee, tucking into some Argentinian-inspired empanadas or people watching out of the large open windows. Eguia points out the importance of the half-in-half-out window seats, which enhance the friendly, community atmosphere that the space embodies, allowing passers-by to interact with customers and vice versa.

CASA ALMIRALL. Joaquín Costa 33.

If you’re looking for a traditional Catalan watering hole, then Casa Almirall, the oldest business on the street, is the one for you. Founded in 1860, its timelessness is reflected in the original decor and elegant antique furnishings. You can soak up the history and 19th-century charm whilst enjoying a house vermut or snacking on some anchovies.

CAROL’S CUPCAKES. Joaquín Costa 47.

This unassuming cupcake haven is run by Diana Orellana Redrovan who realised a lifelong dream when she opened shop last month. “I started this as a hobby, but now it’s my work and I love it.” Customers can treat themselves to one of the regular flavours or try the daily specials, which range from Kit Kat to Cookie Monster.

MOTHER. Joaquín Costa 26

We all know it can be a task to get in your recommended five fruits and veggies a day, but the team at Mother are here to lend a helping hand. Owners Lili and Gemma said their goal is “to promote drinking veggies and eating fruit”. The juice bar is the first in Spain to specialise in the nutrient-retaining method of cold pressing the ingredients. Choose from a selection of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, plant-based and dairy free milks or a variety of healthy snacks, all organic and additive free.

TO BE CONCEPT BCN. Joaquín Costa 9.

A new addition to the street, To Be Concept BCN offers everything from bow ties made from recycled bicycle wheels to lights crafted from used Coca-Cola bottles. Owner and furniture creator, Luis Delpero, wants to showcase handmade items from local artists and explains, “I work with designers and products that you can’t find in places like IKEA. They’re unique.” Whether it’s a small gadget you’re looking for or a bespoke remodelled set of drawers, To Be Concept BCN has it all and provides it in a welcoming atmosphere.