Takeaway cannelloni win over Sant Esteve despite the rain in Barcelona

Sant Esteve once again fills tables with cannelloni. Homemade or ready to take away? The quick option gains ground every year. Rain affects sales, but the tradition remains alive. Discover how this custom is evolving in Barcelona.

The Sant Esteve tradition in Barcelona keeps cannelloni as the undisputed stars of the table. Every year, the choice is debated between preparing them at home with leftover Christmas roast or buying them ready to enjoy. The option of taking them away prepared continues to gain followers, especially on public holidays such as this 27 December.

At La Bodega del Poblenou, rain has slowed the usual flow of customers, although they expect to sell around 2,000 cannelloni this Sant Esteve. The most sought-after are the traditional ones, offered in trays of five and available freshly gratinated. The classic recipe is retained, although with an innovative touch: they lower the temperature and cooking time, and add a little stock to the béchamel.

For those looking for different flavours, the establishment also offers pheasant, truffle and foie cannelloni, as well as ricotta and spinach versions, which have gained popularity. In addition, this year they are offering roast chicken, with around 50 units planned for sale. Although December is the strongest month for sales, the business managers foresee lower revenue due to bad weather.

Lucia Alves, the person in charge of the establishment, notes that rain during the holidays has discouraged many shoppers from leaving home. Most orders were placed from October, which has made it possible to maintain some stability in sales despite adverse weather conditions.