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Where to eat at Montserrat | Delicious meals for all budgets

Montserrat is a popular spot for day trips outside Barcelona, drawing many visitors. It's less than an hour away by car, though longer by train, and boasts beautiful scenery, nature, and a rich history. Plus, the boys' choir adds a musical flair to the experience.

However, dining at Montserrat can be a challenge. Mornings are bustling with tourists and pilgrims, making it crowded. Staying for lunch allows for a quieter experience. And if you're staying overnight, you'll need dinner options too. Here are some of the best places to eat.

​All about Montserrat Monastery

Restaurants near Montserrat

Restaurant Abat Cisneros

Located within Hotel Abat Cisneros, Restaurant Abat Cisneros is a cozy spot perfect for smaller groups. Housed in what used to be the monastery stables from the 16th century, its stone arch ceiling adds to its charm.

  • Capacity: Despite its smaller size compared to Restaurant Montserrat, it accommodates group bookings with two rooms, Salo de Pedra and Salo Rosa, collectively seating 220 diners.
  • Cuisine: Specializing in traditional Catalan dishes, expect hearty seafood and meat options, available either à la carte or through a set menu.
  • Booking: Reservations are recommended, either by phone or email. Ensure confirmation from the reservations department before assuming availability.

Cafes and Bars in Montserrat

hamburgers at bar de la placa near montserrat monastery
cold sandwiches at la cafeteria, an eatery near montserrat monastery
Self-Services in the Monastery Area
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Bar de la Plaça

A casual bar-cafe nestled in Montserrat, Bar de la Plaça offers both indoor and outdoor seating for a relaxed dining experience.

Seasonality: Open from March to November, it welcomes visitors seeking quick bites or leisurely meals.

Menu: Serving snacks like sandwiches, hamburgers, cakes, along with beverages both soft and alcoholic.

Booking: No reservations are accepted, walk-ins are welcome.

La Cafeteria:

A spacious eatery with a self-service area named 'Servei Express' and a section serving warm meals, La Cafeteria caters to various tastes.

Menu: Fast food options include hot and cold sandwiches, pastries, along with full meals such as chicken and chips, sausage stew, and soup of the day. Desserts and drinks are also available.

Self-Services in the Monastery Area

Canteen: Situated in front of the cremallera rack train station, it offers coffee, sandwiches, and simple reheated dishes. Vegetarian options are limited.

Remodeled Café: Found in a small plaza where hiking paths begin, it's a smaller yet cozy spot for refreshments.

Hidden Spot: Near the bus parking, a building overlooks the valley. It houses a café, gift shop, self-service with elaborate options, and an à la carte restaurant mainly for large groups, open when the main cafeteria requires support.

Food shopping, supermarkets, and more

  • Food shopping in Montserrat is a convenient option for picnickers thanks to the stunning views and ample outdoor seating available. If you're in need of picnic supplies while at Montserrat, you'll find a small supermarket and local market stalls selling fresh produce.
  • For picnickers, there's a designated area at Montserrat located on the terrace of the Mirador dels Apostols building, offering picturesque mountain views and picnic tables.
  • An important tip is to consider the change in temperature as Montserrat is situated atop a tall mountain. Even if the weather seems pleasant at the mountain's base, it can be much cooler and windier at the top. Only plan a picnic if you're confident the weather will be suitable for outdoor dining.
  • Queviures Supermarket in Montserrat offers basic supplies including bread, local products, beverages, and sweets, although prices may be slightly higher than those in city supermarkets.
  • Opposite the Mirador dels Apostols building, you'll find market stalls selling regional specialties such as local honey, cheese, fig cakes, and the renowned 'Mato' fresh cheese.

​Some other things to do in Montserrat

Frequently asked questions about restaurants near Montserrat

Right inside the monastery, you'll find several convenient choices. The two sit-down restaurants are Restaurant Montserrat and Restaurant Abat Cisneros, offering Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine in a more formal setting. For a quicker bite, La Cafeteria provides a cafeteria-style service with a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. There's also a Self-Service Restaurant with similar options.