After several failed efforts in the past due to lack of initiative and patience, this second trip to Barcelona proved to be the time that I and Anthony were able to finally sit down and enjoy the famed tapas stall of El Quim in Boqueria Market. All it took really was standing for around 30 minutes, glowering behind a couple whose every bite we took note of and for every second counted down before they finished their meal. It probably would have been a quicker wait if we went there outside of peak lunch hour but as it was an entirely free day for us, we had all the time in the world. Once we got to sit down, it was a moment of high relief and anticipation for what was ahead of us – great food in the crazy environment of the Boqueria.

We had the usual staples of anchovies, gambas, and pulpo, all of which were excellent. Topped off with a glass of cava and grandmothers chocolate cake, it was an extravagant lunch that could rival many good meals we’ve had so far. As expected, even outside of the lunch hour there was someone waiting for us to vacate our seats, and I could sense they had the same anticipation and joy as we had just an hour earlier. El Quim was fantastic – if a bit expensive for tapas – but I would stand and wait again for another chance if ever.