From Barcelona's towering churches and bustling avenues to the sun-drenched beaches and idyllic plazas, it's obvious why this city captures visitors' hearts and refuses to let go. As befitting the city's Mediterranean lifestyle, you can eat incredibly well here, and often for not very much money. However, it's also quite easy to have a downright disappointing meal if you settle for any old paella-slinging bar along Les Rambles or La Barceloneta.

This map aims to steer visitors towards sure-fire success in the overwhelming world of Barcelona dining. Obvious essentials like pintxos and paella are included (both great but neither authentically Catalan), and be sure to seek out local gems like stinky cheeses, pickled anchovies, artisan vermouth, grilled squid, blood sausages, craft beers, and giant goblets of gin and tonic, followed by 3 a.m. churros and chocolate to soak up the booze. This list of 38 essential food experiences is just the tip of the iceberg, though it offers a great variety of food (and prices) you can't find at home.