Seemor
Barcelona › Poblenou › Swad-The Indian Restaurant
Swad-The Indian RestaurantB+Worth Trying
Carrer de Sancho de Ávila, 167, Sant Martí, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
· Indian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1357 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Small, popular Indian spot with reliably tasty curries and biryani at fair prices, but service tone can feel rushed or brusque during busy periods.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Swad-The Indian Restaurant delivers reliable North Indian cooking with solid food quality anchored by fragrant biryanis and well-executed curries at fair prices. However, inconsistent execution and variable service attentiveness—ranging from brisk to rushed during peak times—prevent a higher grade. The compact seating and practical rather than distinctive setting keep this a dependable neighborhood curry house rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked near Glòries, this small room feels cozy and bustling when full. Staff often move at a clip, which some read as brisk and others as efficient. One diner noted, "We were seated quickly and plates landed fast," while another felt a bit rushed at peak. The space is clean and modern, more practical than plush. Cooking leans classic North Indian with a few regional detours, a produce-forward, traditional approach rather than showy fusion. Biryani arrives fragrant and layered, butter chicken is rich without heaviness, and spice levels are happily tuned on request. If you value dependable flavors over theatrics, this kitchen delivers a solid curry fix at fair prices. For families, there are kid-amenable choices like butter chicken and naan, mild dals, and plain pulao. Portions vary—rice is generous, some curries run modest—so add an extra bread for hungry kids. No stated kids menu, but the lineup suits younger palates if you keep spice light.
At a Glance
- Fragrant biryanis and well-executed classic curries
- Fair pricing with a €19 tasting menu option
- Service can feel rushed or curt during busy times
- Portion sizes on some curries feel modest
- Book ahead; limited seating fills quickly
What Sets It Apart
- well-priced_tasting_menu
- biryani_fragrance
- broad_veg_selection
What People Love
- Aromatic rice and tender meats
- Custom spice levels on request
- Clean, modern space that focuses on the food
- Good value for quality in a busy district
Points of Concern
- Service tone can be brusque; several diners felt hurried or unwelcome at peak times
- Portions vary—rice generous but some curries smaller than expected
- Thin, firmer naan style divides opinion
- Review patterns show a wide mix of sentiments; busy-hour experiences may not reflect off-peak service
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€24-34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a curry (€9.90-€11.20) with one naan and plain pulao to balance portion sizes
- Vegetarians: Dal Tarka plus Palak or Kadhai Subzi makes a rounded plate
- Seafood fans: Malabar Fish or Prawn Korma for richer sauces
Perfect For
- A casual curry night near Glòries
- Small groups that book ahead
- Balanced vegetarian and meat-eater dinners
- Travelers seeking reliable Indian comfort dishes
Location Insights
Area: Emerging tech and creative district near Glòries with mixed offices, residential blocks, and casual eateries.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, active foot traffic around office hours and evenings.
Nearby: Close to Glòries, Poblenou offices, and coworking hubs; draws locals, office workers, and nearby residents.
PoblenouPoblenou is a former industrial area transformed into a vibrant neighborhood with a strong creative and tech presence. It features a mix of modern apartments, coworking spaces, and a growing dining scene that includes traditional Catalan eateries and international cuisine, attracting a diverse crowd seeking a relaxed yet dynamic atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday13:00–15:30, 07:30–22:30
Tuesday13:00–15:30, 07:30–22:30
Wednesday13:00–15:30, 07:30–22:30
Thursday13:00–15:30, 07:30–22:30
Friday13:00–15:30, 07:30–22:30
Saturday13:00–16:00, 07:30–22:30
Sunday13:00–16:00, 07:30–22:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →