Salamanca, Almirant Cervera, 34, 27 Barcelona, CT 08003 Spain

This restaurant was recommended by a taxi driver, which can be a hit and miss affair - but this time was spot on. Located in two sites opposite each other we were quickly directed into Salamanca 2 by the greeter and soon had a tapas plate of Iberian ham before us. Followed quickly by a plate of calamari.

This restaurant is located next to the port, in an area called Barceloneta that used to be notorious for dive bars and their denizens. The area has been rejuvenated over the last few years but not at the cost of all of its charm.

The menu is based on fresh fish and seafood, caught in the Med nearby and frequently served with little elaboration between sea and plate.

Our waiter asked for our faith and, as the picture will attest, the platter he prepared was reward enough. Mussels, shrimp, fish, and squid were piled high with three substantial parts of lobster too.

Ham, cheese, fish, wine. What more could you need? Paella perhaps? It's on the menu, though we didn't try it.

Desserts were bought in, frozen, which they didn't try to hide. Good on them; I didn't bother with dessert and felt well treated. Cafe solo was excellent. Overall, one to revisit.