This neighborhood was the best! Close to everything, but not overrun by tourists. We felt very lucky to have chosen the apartment from all the many choices available in Barcelona. The apartment is just off of a pedestrian street by Sagrada Familia. There were many bakeries and tapas bars to choose from and it was very easy to find great and affordable food. Because of this, we didn't use the kitchen once.
Some reviews mention street noise, but that was not an issue AT ALL as the bedroom was set in the rear of the apartment and well off the street. We even slept comfotably with the windows open.