Rolling Traveler

We had lunch at MamaCafé; we arrived at around 1.00 PM, and we were lucky to arrive when we did, because despite its good size, the place was almost full by 1:30. Although it was almost full, it didn’t feel claustrophobic or crowded: the space is managed well, and the tables aren’t too close together. The restaurant has a smaller front area with a counter, an open kitchen in the middle, and a larger back room, all in the bold warm colors of the web site. The staff are friendly, the service is good, and the atmosphere, helped by a good selection of unintrusive music and well-chosen art, is great. The servers all spoke some English, and were happy to explain the menu when needed.

Of course, none of that would matter if the food wasn’t good, and it was delicious. The choice for lunch is either a full lunch (starter, main and dessert for just under 10 Euro) or a “quick lunch” (just the main plus dessert or coffee for under 8 Euro) from the menu of the day, which has a selection of three starters, three mains and three desserts. The cuisine is light, healthy mediterranean food, prepared fresh. The presentation is good, and the portions are a good size. At the price, it was not only the best meal we ate in Barcelona, it was also the best value meal we had. I had a fresh light tomato-mozarella starter, followed by a tender yet lean pork loin with thick-cut fried potatoes, and lemon sorbet for dessert, while my friend had a rich gorgonzola rigattone starter, a crisp lightly fried mixed veg main, and a thick-crust juicy apple pie to finish.
In terms of wheelchair access, as mentioned, MamaCafé also scores highly. The interior is spacious, and a wheelchair can get around easily, even when the restaurant is busy. There is a proper sized accessible restroom, with a sink at the right level, and correctly placed handles on either side of the toilet. Not all of the tables have the right legs to be able to get under them with every design of wheelchair, but there are enough of the right kind to give anyone a choice of where to sit. The access at the front is good, with a ramp onto the doorstep, and a wide door. The ramp is a little steep, and the turn from the ramp to the door a little tight, but I found both manageable. In a broader wheelchair, or for someone who is less used to getting around on their own, a helping hand might be needed.
Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend that if you are ever in Barcelona, seek out and enjoy the food and atmosphere at the MamaCafé restaurant.