It has been years since I posted to this board, and I hope everyone is doing well.

Way back in the day there was always lots of discussion of getting the local experience, and a lot of people mentioned wishing they knew someone when they visited a place. Some of my friends in Barcelona are hosts for a really interesting program called EatWith: http://www.eatwith.com/

Basically, you book a meal at someone's home, and they cook for you. I have only heard stories from hosts, but what I have heard is really positive. My example are my friends Mónica and Manu who have a centrally located apartment in Barcelona. Just getting inside to see the original tile work on the floor, and enjoying the view of their interior patio would be worth it, but having food by Mónica (my ex-housemate, who I can confirm is an excellent cook) makes it totally worthwhile.

So, if you are looking for a local experience, check it out. I have not lived in Barcelona since 2008, but every time I go back I find the restaurant scene to be a little too much of a scene, and a home dining experience sounds like it would be excellent.

Happy trails to all of you!
Claire

Thanks for posting, Claire - this looks really interesting! I'll be in Barcelona and San Sebastian next month and will check it out!

On TA the experts suggest that perhaps it is not so much eating as locals more as eating with expats. Experiences can vary a lot. However that also goes for restaurants too.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...Catalonia.html

What a great idea. I'd love to do that - as a hostess & a guest.

Not the same thing, but several hotels here used to have a "Chef's table", which I often used if I didn't have client or friend dinners when travelling. You just let the GM know in the morning that you'd be like to join the Chef's Table for dinner.

Met some interesting people, had some wonderful food & wines.

Haven't posted for a while, but decided to come back and peddle for your friends?

This idea is not new, see Saturday Night Live, season 2, episode 13.

Here is a transcript:
http://snltranscripts.jt.org/76/76minhouse.phtml

Mark

Claire! I have fond memories of my two trips to Barcelona and getting together with you there. I'd love to do something like this, meeting people in their apartment for dinner.

Hope all is well.

Yes, the "home restaurant" has been around for a very long time. Some in New York are even famous. But can I write it off as a travel expense if I'm dining in someone's home? And who does the dishes?

http://www.theatlanticcities.com/art...t-dinner/6389/