Raim

 

We may have reached the final stop of Barcelona´s Latin Line but don’t head for the exits just yet because we´ve saved a real Caribbean treat for last. Our final stop is Raim - the Cuban nightspot that´s the perfect ambassador for the country which it represents - it has a colourful past, a buzzing atmosphere, and above all else.... a whole lot of rum.

 

Located on the site of an old winery that dates back to 1886, Raim is a classic Cuban bar with a rich Catalan history. This old winery was originally used as the official diner for the factory located at the end of the street. (Keep an eye out for the factory chimneys that are still standing)

 

So if you rewind to the late 19th century, you would find this winery packed full of workers enjoying a much needed refreshment after a hard day at work. Well, fast forward 125 years and (besides the Cuban feel) not a great deal has changed - as Raim continues to provide Barcelona´s thirsty after work crowd with the perfect place to get their evening started in style.

 

Since taking charge in 2002, current owners Simón and Gabriel have worked hard to preserve the nostalgic feeling of the buildings past. In fact when looking at the understated exterior from the street you could be forgiven for thinking Raim was actually still an old winery. But once you head inside past the giant wooden shutters, the Cuban influence really starts to shine through.

 

With a cool Caribbean soundtrack blasting from the speakers and the multitude of memorabilia hanging from the walls, you´ll soon be heading to the bar to really get into the Cuban ´spirit´.

 

Speaking of ´spirits´ - as any self respecting Cuban bar should, Raim prides itself on its Rum selection – offering a whopping 18 varieties of the strong stuff. And what do Cubans do best with rum? Well quite simply, they invented the Mojito!

 

Here´s how Raim go about making this authentic Cuban cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1 spoonful of sugar
• 15ml (1/2 oz) of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 small mint branches
• 2 shots of angostura (around 90ml)
• 1 and a half shots of rum (around 60ml)
• 2 small ice cubes

 

Once the sugar is dissolved in the lemon juice, add the mint and shake vigorously. Add two small ice cubes and shake it again. Pour the Rum and the Angostura. Transfer the mix into a 6 ounce glass, top up with sparkling water and decorate it with a slice of lemon.

Then let the rum begin!

 

Address: Calle Progrés 48 (Metro: Fontana L3)

Website: http://www.raimbcn.com/