Chi Nanit
Chi Nanit
Chi Nanit is the Gràcia second life of the much-loved original Nanit on Balmes, run by the same Shanghai-born family. The kitchen focuses on hand-made dumplings, xiaolongbao, dim sum, and Shanghai-region noodles and mains. The minimalist new room with its wall of teapots feels calmer than the old Eixample basement.
Background
About Chi Nanit
The Story
Chi Nanit is the second life of one of Barcelona's most cherished Chinese kitchens. The original Nanit operated in a loud semi-basement on Carrer de Balmes in l'Eixample, where its window of hand-made dumplings drew local diners through the late 2010s. After closing without warning, the family reopened over a year later as Chi Nanit on a calm Gràcia side street, swapping the cramped Eixample basement for a minimalist room with a long bar and a wall lined with teapots. The restaurant is still operated by the same Shanghai-born couple who built Nanit's reputation for authentic Chinese cooking, and many longtime regulars followed them across town.
The Cuisine
The kitchen focuses on Shanghai-region Chinese cooking, with hand-made dumplings and noodles at the centre of the menu. Specialities include shrimp shaomai, vegetable shaomai, xiaolongbao, hot-pot soups, and Shanghai chicken, alongside chef Quim's Chinese mains such as Gong Bao chicken and tofu in vinegar sauce. The cooking emphasises authentic regional technique over the typical Western-Chinese restaurant repertoire, with dishware and many ingredients imported from China.
The Team
Chi Nanit is a family operation. Co-owner Jun Mei, originally from Shanghai, runs the dumpling and dim sum station, with chef Quim handling the wider Chinese menu. The restaurant is small enough that the same hands cook, plate, and frequently greet guests, giving the room a neighbourhood-level intimacy uncommon for a kitchen of this technical depth.
Highlights
What Diners Say
Consensus
Chi Nanit Ratings & Reviews
Professional Ratings
Travelers' Choice award
Diner Ratings
Tripadvisor
4.2
53 reviews
Chi Nanit holds a 4.2/5 Travelers' Choice rating on Tripadvisor (53 reviews), with diners praising the hand-made dumplings, xiaolongbao, and authentic Shanghai cooking.
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Reservations
How to Book Chi Nanit
Booking
Reservations recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Chi Nanit serves lunch and dinner Monday and Wednesday through Sunday, with the restaurant closed on Tuesdays. Bookings by phone at +34 936 597 625. The restaurant accepts credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments.
Experience
Chi Nanit Dining Experience
A minimalist, quiet dining room with a long bar at the entrance and a wall of decorative teapots. The space is intentionally pared-back compared to the cramped basement of the original Nanit, with imported Chinese dishware and a calm, conversational mood. Energy is moderate, lighting is warm, and the room is comfortable for couples or small groups rather than large parties.
Navigate
Chi Nanit Location & Neighbourhood
Getting There
Chi Nanit sits on Carrer de Martínez de la Rosa in Vila de Gràcia, a quiet Barcelona street within the Gràcia district. The location is a short walk from Fontana metro and the Passeig de Gràcia / Diagonal axis.
Nearby
Vila de Gràcia is a former independent town absorbed into Barcelona, characterised by narrow streets, public squares, and a strong neighbourhood identity. The area is known for independent shops, tapas bars, and a deep bench of small, owner-operated restaurants. Chi Nanit sits on a calm residential block away from the main Gràcia plaças.
Details
Chi Nanit Reservations, Hours & Contact
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
| Thursday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
| Friday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
| Saturday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
| Sunday | 13:00–16:30 & 20:00–23:30 |
Chi Nanit hours verified 2026-04-01. Contact the restaurant to confirm.
Contact
Recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Book by phone at +34 936 597 625.
Good to Know
Questions
Chi Nanit FAQ
What type of cuisine does Chi Nanit serve?
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Chi Nanit specialises in authentic Chinese cooking from the Shanghai region, with a particular focus on hand-made dumplings, dim sum, and noodles. The menu also includes Chinese chicken, pork, beef, and seafood dishes prepared in traditional regional styles.
How much does it cost to eat at Chi Nanit?
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The average spend is around €21 per person, with most diners spending between €25 and €35 depending on dim sum and main-course selections. Prices are mid-range for Barcelona Chinese dining.
Where is Chi Nanit located in Barcelona?
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Chi Nanit is at Carrer de Martínez de la Rosa, 42, in Vila de Gràcia. The closest metro stop is Fontana on line L3, about a seven-minute walk away.
What days is Chi Nanit open?
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Chi Nanit is open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 13:00 to 16:30 for lunch and 20:00 to 23:30 for dinner. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.
Do I need a reservation at Chi Nanit?
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Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. The dining room is small, so walk-ins can be accommodated only when tables are free. Book by phone at +34 936 597 625.
Is Chi Nanit related to the original Nanit on Balmes?
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Yes. Chi Nanit is the same Shanghai-born family that ran the original Nanit on Carrer de Balmes in l'Eixample. After that location closed, the family reopened in Gràcia under the Chi Nanit name with the same focus on hand-made dumplings and authentic Shanghai cooking.