Summary: Bacalalo (Mercat del Ninot) and Bacallà Masclans are two historic cod fish shops in Barcelona. We compare their products, catalog, online presence, available cuts, and services in depth. With two comparative tables and 10 frequently asked questions, you'll know which one suits you best based on where you live, what recipe you're preparing, and what you value most.
Table of Contents
- Two Historic Cod Shops in Barcelona
- The Tradition of the "Bacallaner" in Barcelona's Commerce
- Bacalalo: Specialization and E-commerce
- Exclusive Bacalalo Products
- Bacallà Masclans: The Neighborhood Cod Shop
- What Differentiates Them in 2026
- Quick Comparison
- What to Buy at Each, Depending on Your Recipe
- What to Look for in a Good Cod Shop
- When to Choose Each One
- Frequently Asked Questions
Two Historic Cod Shops in Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the few cities in Europe where there are still cod fish shops exclusively dedicated to cod. Not fishmongers with some cod, but shops that have made Gadus morhua their raison d'être for generations.
Bacalalo and Bacallà Masclans are two of these cod shops. Both have been in Barcelona for decades, both know cod like few others, and both have a loyal clientele. But they have chosen different paths to adapt to the present.
While Bacalalo has made the leap to e-commerce without abandoning its stall in Mercat del Ninot, Masclans has consolidated its position as a local cod shop in the Gracia and Eixample areas. Both models have value, and choosing between one or the other depends more on your needs as a buyer than on the quality of the product itself.
The Tradition of the "Bacallaner" in Barcelona's Commerce
The profession of bacallaner (cod merchant) is one of the hallmarks of Barcelona's commerce. Unlike other cities where cod is sold as just another item in a fishmonger's, in Barcelona, bacallaners have for centuries been a separate profession, with their own guild and knowledge passed down from master to apprentice.
This specialization originated from Barcelona's position as a port of entry for Nordic cod to the Mediterranean. For centuries, salted cod was one of the most important proteins in the Catalan diet: it could be stored without refrigeration, was economical, and extremely versatile in cooking. The bacallaners were the ones who selected the best pieces from the shipments, controlled the salting process, and advised families on the most suitable cuts for each dish.
Today, in the 21st century, this tradition persists in a handful of shops scattered throughout Barcelona's neighborhoods. Masclans and Bacalalo are direct heirs of this bacallaner culture, although each expresses it differently. Masclans represents the continuity of the neighborhood model: the shop as a meeting point where the shopkeeper and the neighbor have known each other all their lives. Bacalalo represents the adaptation of the traditional model to the digital age: the same knowledge and the same quality, but with the ability to reach any kitchen in Spain.
Bacalalo: Specialization and E-commerce
Bacalalo has been operating from the Mercat del Ninot since 1990. What began as a specialized market stall has evolved into an e-commerce platform for premium seafood products that maintains the essence of a market.
The move online has allowed it to expand its catalog beyond pure cod. Today, in addition to salted cod from Iceland and Norway in 8+ different cuts, Bacalalo offers:
- Professionally desalted cod ready to cook, no need for 24-48 hours of desalting at home
- Cantabrian anchovies gourmet selection
- Premium caviar of the best varieties
- Artisan gourmet preserves
- Smoked salmon, roe, and other seafood products
All with delivery throughout the peninsula in 24-48 hours and an educational blog with over 150 articles on recipes, buying guides, and gastronomic culture. From how to prepare a perfect bacalao al pil pil to quick ideas with desalted cod, Bacalalo's educational content is a unique tool for anyone who wants to get the most out of this product.
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Exclusive Bacalalo Products
One of the points where Bacalalo clearly differentiates itself from a traditional neighborhood cod shop is the depth and breadth of its online catalog. The store has expanded its offer to cover not only everyday cod but also gourmet products for special occasions and gastronomic gifts.
In the realm of cod, Bacalalo stands out by offering cuts that are not always available in other cod shops:
- Cod cheeks: the most prized part of Gadus morhua, essential for pil pil. Available all year round.
- Cod tripe: the guts of the cod, a little-known delicacy but with an extraordinary flavor and texture in stews.
- Cod snout: a gelatinous piece perfect for slow cooking and baked preparations.
- Cod skins: crispy fried, or as a base for flavorful broths and fumets.
- Shredded cod: ideal for quickly preparing croquettes, fritters, or salads.
Outside of cod, the catalog includes Cantabrian anchovies of different qualities and formats (from personal tasting to gift tins), premium caviar from various sources, artisan preserves, and smoked salmon. This diversity makes Bacalalo a reference store for both everyday purchases and celebrations.
Bacallà Masclans: The Neighborhood Cod Shop
Bacallà Masclans represents the classic model of a Barcelona cod shop. With a presence in the Gracia and Eixample areas, Masclans has cultivated a close relationship with neighborhood residents for decades, offering quality salted cod with the personal touch that defines local commerce.
Masclans is known for:
- Quality salted cod with careful selection of each piece
- Personalized service and advice based on decades of experience
- Knowledge passed down through generations within the family
- Loyal neighborhood clientele who value proximity and trust
Its approach is more traditional: the physical store as the center of the experience. Those who buy at Masclans appreciate going to the store, talking to the shopkeeper, and getting recommendations for cuts based on the recipe they plan to prepare. It's an experience that connects with how Barcelona has bought cod for generations.
Masclans has not needed an online store to maintain its relevance. Its strength lies in the loyalty of a clientele that values proximity above digital convenience. If you live in Gracia or the upper Eixample area, having a trusted cod shop ten minutes' walk away is a luxury that doesn't need shipping logistics.
What Differentiates Them in 2026
The main difference between the two cod shops in 2026 is digitalization and catalog breadth:
Online presence
Bacalalo has built a complete e-commerce with detailed product sheets, an ordering system, national logistics, and educational content. Masclans maintains a model more focused on in-person sales, without a robust online sales platform. For those living outside Barcelona, this difference is decisive.
Product variety
By incorporating the online channel, Bacalalo has expanded its catalog to include Cantabrian anchovies, caviar, gourmet preserves, and other premium seafood products. Masclans remains more focused on pure cod and salted fish, which is consistent with its specialized neighborhood store model.
Geographical coverage
Bacalalo ships throughout Spain. Masclans primarily serves customers who visit its physical store in Barcelona. If you live in Madrid, Bilbao, Seville, or any other point on the peninsula and want quality cod from a cod shop, only one of the two options is available to you.
Educational content
Bacalalo regularly publishes recipes, desalting guides, product comparisons, and articles on gastronomic culture. If you want to learn how to desalt cod at home or discover what cod cheeks are and how to prepare them, you will find that information on their blog. Masclans transmits this knowledge orally, directly in the store.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Bacalalo | Bacallà Masclans |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Mercat del Ninot (Eixample) | Gracia / Eixample Area |
| Years of tradition | Since 1990 (35+ years) | Several decades of history |
| Online store | Full e-commerce with national shipping | Limited digital presence |
| Salted cod | 8+ cuts, certified origin Iceland/Norway | Main cuts of salted cod |
| Desalted cod | Yes, professionally desalted ready to cook | Inquire at store |
| Special cuts | Cheeks, tripe, snout, skins, shredded | Availability varies by season |
| Other products | Anchovies, caviar, preserves, smoked salmon | Focused on cod and salted fish |
| Shipping | All of Spain 24-48h with cold chain | In-store sales |
| Educational content | 150+ blog articles (recipes, guides, culture) | Personalized in-person advice |
What to Buy at Each, Depending on Your Recipe
Each cod recipe requires a specific cut. Preparing a pil pil (which needs thick loins with skin and plenty of gelatin) is not the same as making fritters (which are made with flakes). This table helps you know exactly what you need based on what you're cooking.
| Recipe | Required Cut | Bacalalo | Masclans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacalao al pil pil | Thick loins with skin + cheeks | Available (loins + cheeks online) | Loins yes, cheeks subject to availability |
| Bacallà a la llauna | Medium loins, with or without skin | Various thicknesses available | Available |
| Esqueixada | Shredded desalted cod | Professionally desalted + shredded | Salted cod for shredding at home |
| Cod fritters | Flakes or finely shredded | Flakes and shredded available | Flakes available |
| Cod brandade | Flakes or loins for shredding | Various options of flakes and loins | Flakes or loins |
| Cod kokotxas al pil pil | Cod kokotxas | Available all year | Check availability |
| Stewed cod tripe | Cod tripe | Available | Specialized product, inquire |
| Cod croquettes | Flakes or shredded | Shredded ideal for croquettes | Flakes available |
For everyday recipes (llauna, fritters, brandade, croquettes), both bacallanerías offer what's needed. Bacalalo's advantage is noticeable in its special cuts and the option of professionally desalted cod, which eliminates the 24-48 hour wait of home desaltion.
What to look for in a good bacallanería
Regardless of which bacallanería you choose, there are signs that indicate you are dealing with a serious cod professional. These criteria will help you evaluate any bacallanería in Barcelona, including Bacalalo and Masclans:
- Transparency in origin: A good bacallaner knows exactly where their cod comes from and communicates it without issue. Iceland, Norway, Faroe Islands: each origin has its own texture and flavor characteristics. If the shopkeeper cannot tell you the origin, look for another store.
- Diversity of cuts: Serious bacallanerías don't just sell loins. They offer flakes, shredded cod, kokotxas, and other cuts that demonstrate deep knowledge of the product and the ability to make the most of it.
- Product appearance: Well-preserved salted cod has a uniform white-yellowish color, without dark spots or unpleasant odors. The pieces should be clean and well-presented.
- Real advice: The value of a bacallanería compared to a supermarket is the bacallaner's knowledge. A good professional will ask you what recipe you are going to make, how many diners you expect, and will recommend the exact cut and quantity.
- Product rotation: Salted cod keeps well, but not indefinitely. A store with good rotation means fresh product. Ask when the last batch arrived.
- Desalting options: Some bacallanerías offer professional desalting services. This is an indicator of sophistication and a willingness to facilitate the customer experience.
Both Bacalalo and Masclans are bacallanerías that meet these quality standards. The choice between one and the other depends more on practical factors (location, need for shipping, catalog breadth) than on differences in the basic quality of the cod.
When to choose each one
Shop at Masclans if...
- You live near their store and value local shopping
- You enjoy the personal touch of a neighborhood bacallanería
- You are looking for classic salted cod for regular use
- You prefer to see and touch the product before buying
- You want the bacallaner to recommend the cut in person
Shop at Bacalalo if...
- You want to buy online with shipping to anywhere in Spain
- You need special cuts: kokotxas, tripe, snout, skins
- You are looking for professionally desalted cod ready to cook
- In addition to cod, you want premium anchovies or caviar
- You value detailed information before buying (guides, recipes, blog)
- You need to send a gourmet gift with direct shipping
You don't have to choose just one: some customers shop at both depending on the occasion. The key is to know what each offers and choose according to your needs at the moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bacallà Masclans have a website for purchasing?
Masclans has a limited online presence and does not have a complete e-commerce platform for placing orders with shipping. Their business model is focused on their physical store and direct customer interaction. For buying cod online with home delivery throughout Spain, Bacalalo offers an e-commerce platform with 24-48 hour shipping.
Which is better for a pil pil?
For a good bacalao al pil pil you need thick loins with skin and, ideally, kokotxas. Bacalalo offers both cuts permanently with guaranteed origin from Iceland/Norway, even in a desalted version ready to cook. At Masclans you can find quality loins for pil pil, but the availability of kokotxas may vary by season.
Can I visit both physical stores?
Yes, and it's a good idea if you like cod. Bacalalo is in the Mercat del Ninot (Eixample, Mallorca street 133) and Masclans in the Gracia/Eixample area. Both are in well-connected areas with public transport. If you visit Barcelona and want to experience the city's bacallanera tradition, visiting both is a gastronomic experience in itself.
Which bacallanería has a wider variety of cuts?
Bacalalo offers more than 8 different cod cuts: extra loins, standard loins, flakes, shredded, kokotxas, tripe, snout, and skins. This variety is especially useful if you cook specific recipes that require particular pieces. Masclans works with the main cuts of salted cod, with an offer more focused on traditional formats.
Are the prices similar?
The prices at both bacallanerías are typical of specialized trade: higher than the supermarket, but with significantly greater quality. Price differences between bacallanerías are smaller than differences with the mass market channel. Price should not be the main criterion for choice: variety, convenience, and service are more decisive.
Are there more bacallanerías in Barcelona?
Yes, Barcelona has several historic bacallanerías: Tarrès, Rafols (in El Born), and others spread among the municipal markets and commercial streets of the city. It is the city with the highest concentration of bacallanerías in Spain. Consult our complete guide to the best bacallanerías in Barcelona to see them all.
What is the advantage of professionally desalted cod?
Desalting cod at home requires 24 to 48 hours of planning, several water changes, and some knowledge to get the salt level just right. Bacalalo's professional desalting eliminates that wait: you receive cod ready to cook instantly, with an optimal and uniform salt level. It is especially practical for those who cook during the week without much preparation time.
Can I buy anchovies or caviar at Masclans?
Masclans focuses on cod and salted fish, which is their area of specialization. If you are looking for selected Cantabrian anchovies or premium caviar, Bacalalo has a complete catalog of these products available both in-store and online. This is an advantage for those who want to make a broader purchase of seafood products in a single order.
Does Bacalalo ship outside of Catalonia?
Yes, Bacalalo ships throughout the Spanish peninsula with 24-48 hour delivery and guaranteed cold chain. This means you can receive cod of the same quality you would buy in the Mercat del Ninot in Madrid, Bilbao, Seville, Valencia, or any other point in Spain. Masclans, as a neighborhood store, does not offer this shipping service.
Which one offers better advice?
Both offer quality advice, but in different ways. Masclans excels in in-person, face-to-face interaction, where the bacallaner knows you and guides you personally. Bacalalo complements in-store advice with a blog of 150+ articles that includes detailed recipes, cut guides, and preparation tips. It depends on whether you prefer verbal advice in person or written information you can consult at any time.
Related guides
- Top 10 bacallanerías in Barcelona
- Where to buy quality cod in Barcelona
- Guide to buying cod at Mercat del Ninot
- The 5 cod cuts and when to use each one
- Cod al pil pil: step-by-step Basque recipe
- Desalted cod recipes: quick and easy ideas
- Cod kokotxas al pil pil: recipe and what they are
Explore our catalog of premium salted cod from Iceland and Norway and receive it at home in 24-48 hours from Bacalalo.
