“Fer el vermut”: the perfect aperitivo before your Japanese lunch or dinner in Eixample

In Barcelona, fer el vermut (having vermouth) is much more than just a drink: it’s a social ritual, an excuse to catch up with friends before lunch or dinner, a tradition rooted in Catalan culture for over a century. Enric Granados street and its surroundings offer some of the best options to enjoy this aperitivo before sitting down at Arko, where Japanese cuisine awaits just steps away.

Vermouth: a Catalan tradition over a century old

Catalonia has been vermouth territory since the Perucchi house opened in Barcelona near 1860. Shortly after, Reus became the vermouth capital, and since then the aperitivo has remained part of Barcelona’s DNA. Vermouth is a fortified wine, macerated with herbs, spices and botanicals that give it that bitter, aromatic and slightly sweet flavour we love. Served with ice, an olive and an orange slice, vermouth whets the appetite like no other drink. It’s the perfect prologue to a dinner of sushi and robata.

Where to have vermouth near Arko on Enric Granados

Just metres from Arko, you’ll find options for all tastes. La Moderna, on the same Enric Granados street, is a traditional bodega serving Yzaguirre vermouth from the barrel in an authentic atmosphere. Colmado Barcelona, on Provença corner with Enric Granados, offers vermouth and tapas in a charming venue open late. Morro Fi, with its Eixample location on Consell de Cent, has become a benchmark for artisan vermouth in Barcelona. And Senyor Vermut, at Provença 85, boasts 40 different varieties and patatas bravas to die for.

From vermouth to omakase: a perfect afternoon in Eixample

We suggest the perfect plan: start with a vermouth at any of these spots, stroll through the streets of Eixample enjoying the modernist architecture, and finish the morning or afternoon with dinner at Arko. The transition from Catalan aperitivo to Nikkei cuisine is surprisingly natural: both traditions share a respect for quality produce and the pleasure of eating without rushing. Book your table at Arko and toast to the fusion of two gastronomic cultures.