Falling into a cliché is far too easy in Berlin, but Bar Raval does a wonderful job of avoiding all the Spanish stereotypes. So if you were looking for flamenco dancers and barefoot men with dreadlocks, this is not the right place for you.

Atilano González and longtime friend-turned-business-partner, Daniel Brühl, opened Bar Raval in early 2011 after kitting out the simple but well-decorated restaurant with genuine tiles from Barcelona and authentic marble countertops from Spain. The duo also clearly understand the importance of offering a quality vino to complement the food—together they procure some seriously good ones straight from the Spanish vintner.

Just walking by the restaurant, the smells of the Mediterranean—lush olives, jamón serrano, and even the typical Catalan tomato bread—instantly transport you to another world. Start your meal with a light vegetable gazpacho which is perfectly refreshing on a hot summery day. Patatas bravas and chorizo are a must when eating tapas, but for the more daring diner ask González what he recommends, making sure to leave enough room in your stomach for the savory paella—usually served on Mondays at 20:30—and the citrusy crème brûlée.