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Caelis
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where French culinary artistry meets Mediterranean soul, Caelis Barcelona stands as one of Spain's most compelling fine dining destinations, housed within the striking Hotel Ohla in the historic Ciutat Vella district. Chef Romain Fornell's Michelin-starred sanctuary offers an intimate theater of gastronomy that redefines contemporary European cuisine.
Fornell's remarkable journey began in 2004 when he opened Caelis at just 25, becoming Europe's youngest Michelin-starred chef. The French-born culinary virtuoso, trained under Alain Ducasse, relocated his acclaimed restaurant to Hotel Ohla in 2017, marking a bold evolution toward more contemporary expression. This move proved transformative, allowing Fornell to push creative boundaries while maintaining the Michelin star he's held continuously since 2005. His unique distinction as the only chef holding Michelin stars in both France and Spain underscores his exceptional talent.
The cuisine at Caelis represents a sophisticated dialogue between French technique and Mediterranean ingredients, expressed through three weekly-changing tasting menus: Earth & Sea, Celebration, and Vegetarian. Signature creations include the legendary "Surf & Turf" cannelloni with lobster and foie gras, organically raised leeks roasted in charcoal with Pyrenean caviar, and Maresme green peas in Thai chicken broth with truffles. Each dish demonstrates Fornell's mastery of seasonal sourcing and his ability to create identifiable flavors through astute pairings. The restaurant's commitment to fine dining excellence extends to carefully crafted vegetarian offerings and refined lunch menus at more accessible price points.
The dining experience unfolds across two distinctive spaces within the neo-Classical building adorned with Frederic Amat's striking "ocular globes" artwork. The elegant main dining room accommodates 24-28 guests, while the dramatic open kitchen features a U-shaped chef's table for 14 diners. Here, gleaming copper pans hang from the ceiling as guests witness culinary artistry in real-time, creating an immersive theater of gastronomy. The wine program showcases over 300 carefully curated selections emphasizing Mediterranean and French varietals, expertly paired by knowledgeable sommeliers. Service maintains the highest standards of fine dining hospitality—attentive yet unobtrusive, with a no-children-under-10 policy ensuring a sophisticated atmosphere.
Reservations at Caelis require advance planning, particularly for the coveted chef's table experience. This Michelin star restaurant Barcelona represents the pinnacle of Franco-Mediterranean cuisine, where Fornell's innovative vision and impeccable execution create unforgettable memories for discerning gourmands seeking Barcelona's finest culinary artistry.
CHEF
Romain Fornell
ACCOLADES

(2024) Michelin 1 Star

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Classical in Europe Ranked #282

(2025) Michelin 1 Star

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Classical in Europe Ranked #271

