It can be a bit of a roulette to pick a good restaurant at Barceloneta beach, so be grateful I've taken the chances and come up with the goods! Pez Vela (which means sailfish...?!) is a "chiringuito", or beach bar, and it's quite a stunner. Situated below the imposing W Hotel, it couldn't be closer to the beach unless it was on the sand.
With a terrace, open front and easy breezy interior, Pez Vela is ideal for seeking shade during the hottest part of the day, and for a spot of lunch (though it's also open for dinner).
A cold beer and the best salmon tartare with avocado, and I was blissfully happy. The paella and salad options are delicious too, and the pricing reasonable.
An amazing find in an otherwise touristy area, allowing you to spend a full day at the beach.