The amazing weather we are having this summer has us thinking about a trip we made to Barcelona a couple of years ago. As much as we were in awe of the Sagrada Família, Camp Nou, and Las Ramblas, what we crave most is a visit to Barcelona's most famous Burger joint, Bacoa Burger. Perfect subject matter for this week's Parasol Places: let us tell you a bit about it—a wonderful story that began with a single 15-seat outlet near Las Ramblas. In fact, founders Brad Ainsworth and Paula Lera never intended to create Bacoa Burger. They initially launched an Australian-Thai fusion concept at the original Bacoa Burger (Bacoa Kiosk), but had to pivot during the global financial crisis in 2009. They had opened a second outlet of their original concept and, needing to sell at the original outlet, found few suitors in such tough times. Instead, they decided to create a simple barbecue concept, the simplest and cheapest way of making the outlet pay its way, and the now legendary Bacoa was born. In the first few weeks, it was evident that the single burger on the menu (La Bacoa) was the firm favourite of the initial Bacoa clientele, and, as a result, the original barbecue concept evolved into what it is today.
What is so special about Bacoa? Every ingredient they use is homemade; everything can be customised, and the venues and locations are a pleasure to be in. Other than that, I guess you will have to make a trip and see for yourself.
