The versatile Mecànic cafeteria in the district of Gracia

When you get to Mecànic and see the facade, it’s easy to understand why it has its name: this unique building, which has survived decades and is practically intact in a quiet street in the Gracia district, is an old car shop. But the obvious ends as we enter the door.

A cafeteria? A photo gallery? A library? Mecànic is all of these things, but it’s neither a gallery, nor a bookstore, much less a cafeteria. Xenia and Jean, those responsible for this unique space have managed to turn something as seemingly cold as a mechanical workshop into a place where you want to spend hours enjoying a good coffee. At first glance you don’t see many relevant changes in the local, but, as Xenia points out, the changes are there even though they aren’t noticeable. Inspired by a similar project located in Paris, their old city of residence, they have managed in a few months to create a space that promises to be a meeting point for lovers of photography and good homemade pastries.

Like the local reform, the cafeteria menu seems simple at first glance, but when you delve into it you are surprised by not only the variety, but the quality in the dishes. Practically everything that is served here is done in situ: from the soft and juicy zucchini and mozzarella quiche to the fluffy carrot cake, all made by Xènia. And to accompany, a natural juice or an ecological coffee served in the vintage dishes like what your great aunt had.

From their passage through Paris, they not only brought the concept of the local but also some of the culinary specialties. Here we can have for breakfast an authentic croissant au beurre, or a real pain au chocolat. Besides the fixed elements of the menu, it’s possible that one day you will find some muffins or a cake that you haven’t tried before. And if you want to bet for sure, don’t forget to try the waffles with homemade jam.

And to eat, what’s more French than a good selection of cheese? It’s not necessary to change the country to find the delicacies, as demonstrated by its variety of cokes of vidre for all tastes. To give an example of their food: a hummus tapa, a coca, a natural citronnade to drink, and to finish one of their carefully selected infusions. A complete, healthy and economical menu in a most enjoyable atmosphere.

This cafeteria, which was born as a catalyst for the gallery project, has managed to win its own entity and is called one of the landmarks in Gracia – or throughout Barcelona – for lovers of good food and unique spaces. And although the dishes of the menu vary and photographic exhibitions are temporary, we hope that Mecànic continues to maintain its spirit for a long time.