Rosa Negra

 

The financial crisis. The credit crunch. Tough times. Dark days. Tired of the recession?

Don’t worry, Porktie thought we´d bring you a positive story for a change. Rising from the doom and gloom we´ve found a rose in bloom – Rosa Negra – the Mexican Restaurant proving that some good can come from the economic crisis.

 

So as the shutters come down and the ´Alquiler´ signs go up outside scores of businesses across Barcelona, how is it that Rosa Negra´s profits have actually increased over the past 2 years?

 

Well according to owner Eric Otto it’s quite simple really – a good location (Via Laietana 46), great authentic food and reasonable prices. When looking around the funky surroundings of the restaurant, it’s almost hard to believe that such a cool place would charge such decent prices (like 3.50 Euro for a Margarita or Mojito - all day every day).

 

The unique interior is the work of Mexican designer Lorena Zertuche, who decorated Rosa Negra having been given the brief of “modern Mexican kitsch”. To help create this look, Lorena flew hundreds of original items in from Mexico – lampshades, tablecloths, and possibly most notably, dozens of dolls that hang eerily behind the bar - staring at you whilst you order.

 

The reason that these dolls were chosen is because they are very typical of Guadalajara, the hometown of Rosa Negra´s owner Eric. These dolls certainly provide a talking point in the restaurant, but not many people know the dark truth behind their significance in Mexico – where their common use is to provide decoration at funerals. A little random, but certainly more interesting than the usual sombreros you see hanging from the walls of many Mexican taquerias!

 

Of all the countries we´ve visited on our Latin Line in Barcelona, Mexican food is perhaps the most well known to diners outside Latin America. Most of us are no strangers to popular favourites such as nachos, tacos and burritos – all of which can be found on the menu at Rosa Negra, freshly made by Mexican chef´s using locally sourced ingredients.

 

Of these iconic dishes, Rosa Negra´s burrito is particularly popular with their regulars, mainly because its jam packed full of filling and a real bargain at around 8 Euros. Although most European´s consider these dishes to be ´Mexican classics´, the truth is that they are actually examples of typical Cal-Mex cuisine –mostly eaten in northern Mexico and California.

 

So, in search of the most authentic experience possible, Porktie asked Eric to suggest a lesser known choice from their menu to cater for those more adventurous diners amongst you looking for a true taste of Mexico. His recommendation ...Conchinita – Shredded Pork, marinated in a sweet citrus sauce and slow roasted

Give it a try!

 

Location: Via Laietana 46 (Metro: Urquinaona L1+L4)

Website: http://www.rosanegrabcn.com/