"There is nothing special about this bar," proprietor Cecilio Pineda says without a hint of modesty, but he is wrong - it is unique in the way in which is does not fit easily into any particular generalisation of a 'type' of bar. The bar is dominated by two themes: north American jazz and blues music, played low, and the sea.

Founded in 1989 by ex merchant navy captain Pineda, the bar - which runs the length of the main area - is made in the shape of a ships hull. Besides the odd picture on a maritime theme and a model ship, there is also "Harry's Corner" in which there is a range of old sea-fairing based books, such as Kon Tiki or Operation Drake, in Spanish.

There are just seven circular tables in the principle area, arranged in a line parallel with the bar and on a slightly raised platform. The result of the layout is that people keep themselves to themselves and the bar has a quiet, introspective feel to it. Appropriately, there are chess boards available for use. (There are more tables downstairs, for larger groups).

The feeling that you have entered into a time and location-warp when you step into the bar from Barcelona's gothic quarter is accentuated by the old American jazz and blues that is played in the bar.

All the usual range of alcoholic drinks are available and there is a coffee machine for fresh coffee.

Nostromo is open from 2 p.m. till 2 a.m., Monday to Thursday, and from 2 p.m. till 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. It is closed Sundays.

Nostromo, found at Calle Ripoll, number 6, also doubles as a maritime navigation school, with navigation classes for recreational boats taking place in a separate room at the back.