Tapear en barcelona: 19 Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona, From Wine Bars to Market Stalls

19 Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona, From Wine Bars to Market Stalls

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Courtesy Bar Canete

Destinations

From old-school neighborhood dives to concepts from Michelin-star chefs—these tapas spots are a must.

By Isabelle Kliger

February 24, 2022

The word “tapa” harkens back to the days when these small dishes meant for sharing had to be covered with a “tapa,” or lid, to protect them from the swarms of flies that inhabited the dive bars that served them. These days, Barcelona’s tapas scene has evolved into a sophisticated culinary movement, with many of the city’s top chefs applying as much of their talent to their bite-sized tidbits as they do their full-size or family-style creations. We’ve rounded up Barcelona’s best tapas bars, from old-school market counters to big-name Michelin-star chef spots—some of the most quintessential experiences in this food haven of a city.

Read our complete Barcelona travel guide here.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Denassus

DenassusArrow

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Set on a busy pedestrianized street in Poble Sec, this is, first and foremost, a natural wine bar. While most of the bottles are from Catalonia, there are also options from further afield, including the rest of Spain and France. Take your pick among the almost limitless permutations of red wine, white wine, sparkling wine, pet-nat wine, ancestral wine, orange wine, biodynamic wine, vegan wine, and more. Unlike most wine bars where food is, at best, an afterthought, Denassus more than holds its own as a restaurant. Dishes are made from carefully sourced, local ingredients, all intended for sharing and each designed to pair perfectly with one of the many vintages on offer. The Peking duck croquettes and grilled octopus are both no-brainers, along with whatever happens to be in season.
Alamy

El Quim de la BoqueriaArrow

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El Quim has the kind of privileged setting no amount of money in the world could ever buy. Situated in the middle of Barcelona’s emblematic La Boqueria, it doesn’t need to create its own ambience, surrounded as it is by the flavors, colors, and buzz of one of Europe’s most iconic food markets. All the produce is sourced from within La Boqueria itself, and if that isn’t a testament to its quality, what is? Kick things off with some fresh anchovies bathed in oil and vinegar, followed by the house special of fried eggs with baby squid.
Bar del PlaArrow

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If you ask a group of Barcelonians to name their favorite tapas bars, one spot that will come up over and over again is Bar de Pla. And for good reason; it’s one of a few places that has managed to nail the mix of friendly service, high-quality, affordable food, good wine, and a laid-back atmosphere. The cooking is seasonal and fresh, so it’s worth checking out the daily specials in addition to bestsellers like the squid-ink croquettes, the mushroom carpaccio with wasabi vinaigrette, and the Iberian pork blade.
Contracorrent

Contracorrent BarArrow

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Standing out in stark contrast with the neighboring dive bars (perhaps to be expected when your name is “against the current” or “against the tide”), Contracorrent is a tiny gastronomic gem in an area with little else to recommend it. The tapas menu is scribbled on a chalkboard, and, while it changes with the seasons, standouts like the deeply satisfying roast chicken-based twist on classic Russian salad and the steamed mussels with ginger and tapioca have already achieved legendary status. Come for a taste of local Barcelona life and local Catalan wine at an affordable price point.

Pepa Bar a VinsArrow

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A meeting spot for Barcelona’s natural wine lovers, Pepa Bar a Vin transformed a dirty old bookshop into a warm and welcoming restaurant. Don’t be tricked into thinking this is a wine bar that also happens to serve snacks; the food here is seriously good. Make sure you order the steak tartare with mushrooms, and tequila and the “croquetas de carn d’olla,” or meat stew croquettes. For those of a less carnivorous disposition, they also do seasonal salads and omelets.
Bar Mut

Bar MutArrow

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If you visit Gaudí’s Park Güell in the morning, make this your stop for a long, leisurely lunch on your way back to the city. As the line between tapas and fine dining becomes increasingly blurred, high-end gastronomic bars like this one are showing us there is more to tapas than fried calamari, croquettes and Iberian ham (even though they serve those too). Sublime dishes like the solomillo steak with foie gras or seasonal mushrooms (depending on the time of year), or the game-changing whole lobster cooked with egg and brandy, are why Bar Mut remains one of city’s don’t-miss culinary experiences.
Newscom

El XampanyetArrow

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You’ll find El Xampanyet down one of the narrow, pedestrianized streets of Barcelona’s El Borne neighborhood, just around the corner from Picasso Museum. Despite its touristy location, it continues to uphold all the traditions of an old-school bar, with its blue-tiled walls and marble tables, and its no-reservations, no-website, no-nonsense approach to food and drink. The bar, which specializes in its namesake sparkling wine, is always crowded, and you’ll have to jostle to find standing room.
Bodega La Puntual

Bodega La PuntualArrow

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Bodega La Puntual is hidden in plain sight down one of Barcelona’s most tourist-trodden alleyways, namely Carrer Montcada, which also houses the Picasso Museum. Wine and vermouth are the meat and potatoes of this historic wine bar turned eating establishment. There’s an ample selection of local, national and international wines by the bottle, starting from as little as €13, and more than a dozen options by the glass. In addition to all the tapas staples, like Iberian ham, Padrón peppers, and Manchego cheese, this is also the place to sample some Catalan down-home cooking. The “trinxat” of potato, cabbage, and pork with a fried egg on top is as indulgent as it gets (in a good way, of course).

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The 23 Best Barcelona Tapas Restaurants for 2023 (by a local)

We lift the lid on the tradition of eating tapas…

By Duncan Rhodes

Quick Menu

The History

Must-Try Dishes

23 Best Tapas Bars

5 Tasty Tours

Keep reading to discover the best bars and restaurants for dining on tapas in Barcelona, the dishes you can’t leave the city without trying, and some selected tours for the informed foodie. Written by a local. Que aproveche!

History of Tapas: A Kingly Tradition

There’s nothing more synonymous with Spanish cuisine than tapas, the tradition of eating small dishes as an appetiser, snack or in combination to form a main meal of the day.

In fact the influence of this tradition can be seen in restaurants all around the world, as small plates and tasting dishes have become global food trend.

As a style of eating it certainly has its advantages… after all, what could be better than mixing and matching all the glorious taste sensations of the diverse regions of Spain for supper?

…what could be better than mixing and matching all the glorious taste sensations of the diverse regions of Spain for supper?

The word ‘tapa’ in Spanish means ‘lid’, and the ‘s’ simply denominates its plural form. There are many cited origins for the tradition of eating tapas, and how they got their name, with the most romantic featuring King Alfonso X in a starring role. The King, also known as Alfonso the Wise, was gallivanting around his kingdom many moons ago, when he decided to visit an inn and duly ordered a beer. The innkeeper served this refreshing pint of ale with a small complimentary dish of food on top of the glass.

Legend has it tapas started as a kingly beer snack…

The King thought it was such a good idea that he ordered all inns throughout Spain to serve food with any alcoholic drink by decree of law. A great legend, although perhaps a more probable origin is that these ‘lids’ were a custom used by Andalusian folk, in the sweltering south, to keep the flies off their sweet sherry.

Whatever the truth of the matter, the custom is widespread across the country and it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter tapas menus on your visit. To help you make sense of this intriguing gastronomic phenomenon we’ve compiled a list of typical dishes from Spain and Catalonia below, followed by a guide to some of the best tapas bars and restaurants in Barcelona – plus some suggested food tours for those that want to go further.

19 Tapas Dishes (incl. Must-trys!)

Tapas is such an integral part of Spanish culture that almost every rudimentary bar will have some basic offerings on the counter, whilst many restaurants have a tapas menu or specialise solely in the saucer-sized snacks. There are far too many to list in one article, but here are some of the classic dishes you can expect to find in any traditional-style bar in Barcelona… naturally we’ve included many of our faves. Unfortunately for more ethical eaters, virtually all feature meat or seafood, so vegans may have to look away now!

Aceitunas

Olives! The Spaniards, including the Catalans, are mad about olives, and if there’s only one tapa available it’s sure to be aceitunas as they can be casually noshed with a copa de vino or a small beer. Some delicious Spanish varieties include manzanillas, arbequinas and empeltres.

Albondigas

Meatballs! Not the most elegant dish on this list, although depending on the restaurant they can be raised to out of the ordinary by some clever uses of spices and sauces.

Bacalao

Cod is a mainstay of Catalan cuisine and so naturally enough available in tapas form. Well-salted and usually served on bread with tomatoes. Sometimes you might see it Aragonese or Navarran style in an ajoarriero stew (pictured).

Bomba (must-try!)

A fat ball of mashed potato stuffed with meat, cheese or veg and covered in bread crumbs, La Bomba is the classic dish of the Barceloneta district, so be sure to pop into a bar and try one when you’re on your way back from the beach. Usually spicy.

Boquerones en vinagre

Prepared well these are simply divine. Fresh filleted anchovies in vinegar. Some joints clearly just pull them out of a tin however…

Calamares

To the uncultured eater, calamares resemble onion rings, but are in fact circles of squid in batter. Chewy but delicious, and best with a squeeze of lemon. If you don’t like batter, look out for calamares a la plancha, ie. grilled (even better IMHO).

Chipirones (must-try!)

Baby squid battered and fried, these little critters make look disgusting but they might just be Barcelona Life’s favourite traditional tapa. Best drizzled with a squeeze of lemon and digested at a chiringuito (beach bar) somewhere on the Costa Brava.

Chorizo al vino (must-try!)

An editorial fave, and no wonder if you consider that a) Spanish cured sausage is the best in the world b) what could be better than adding a slosh of red wine?! In some parts of Spain you can also try chorizo al sidra, or sausage cooked in cider!

Croquetas (must-try!)

Another clasico, croquetas – as you might have guessed – are stuffed potato croquettes, similar to the aforementioned bombas. You normally buy them by the unit, and they go great with a beer. Some modern tapas bars serve them with innovative fillings like calamari or seasonal mushrooms.

Ensaladilla rusa

‘Russian salad’ is a firm favourite in Spain, and typically one of the only tapas with a high vegetable count – so good for balancing all those meat dishes. Potatoes, eggs and mayonnaise are the main ingredients with beans, carrots and chopped gherkins common additions. (Not a personal fave if I’m being honest!).

Jamon Iberico (must-try!)

Spain’s legendary ham, made from acorn-fed pigs, hardly needs introducing. Delicious dry and salty slivers that melt in the mouth. Never cheap, but always worth it.

Mejillones (must-try!)

Mussels… they might be “al vapor” that is to say steamed, or “a la marinera” in the sailor’s style (with onion, garlic and tomato), or “rellenos” ie. stuffed. And probably a million other variations!

Morcilla (must-try!)

This dark, suspicious looking meat dish divides opinion… it’s the Spanish version of blood pudding. Sometimes its served on its own, other times with patatas bravas, eggs or in stuffed peppers. Our verdict – it’s freaking delicious!

Pa amb tomaquet (must-try!)

A remarkably simple dish that occupies a place in all true Catalans’ hearts, pa amb tomaquet (or pan con tomate in Spanish) is simply rustic bread rubbed with tomato flesh and sprinkled with salt, olive oil and perhaps garlic. It can be served as an accompaniment to a meal or often with cod or ham as a tapa.

Patatas bravas (must-try!)

Chunks of potato chips served with spicy mayonnaise, this decidedly unhealthy snack is an essential side plate for any meal in Spain. Virtually every tapas restaurant in Barcelona serves their own take on them. The quality typically varies between ‘good’ and ‘unbelievably tasty!’

Pimientos del Padron

Pimientos are peppers, whilst Padron is the region in Galicia where these particular thumb-sized fruits come from. Fried in oil and salted, the urban myth goes that one in five is incredibly spicy. We’ve eaten at least 5,000 though and yet to find one that produced more than mild tongue tingling heat.

Pinchos

A typically Basque dish (known as ‘pintxo’ in its region of origin), the pincho, or ‘spike’, is snack skewered on a toothpick and served on a slice of bread. Almost anything can be used to make a pincho, and a bit like tapas themselves they are a form of eating rather than a recipe. The best place to eat them in Barcelona is definitely along Carrer Blai in the hip district of Poble Sec where dozens of pintxo bars have set up shop… these days it’s quite fashionable to do a pincho crawl on any given day of the week.

Pulpo Gallego (must-try!)

Another dish hailing from Spain’s seafood capital, Galicia, pulpo gallego is boiled octopus seasoned with olive oil, salt and paprika. Usually one of the more expensive tapas on any given menu, few regret the extra few euros.

Tortilla

Not to be confused with Mexican tortilla, Spanish tortilla is not a thin flatbread but a fat omelette made with egg, potato and onion. It’s the type of dish that can vary from ordinary to heavenly – usually the latter if homemade by your Spanish friend’s mum.

There are plenty more delicious varieties of tapas served up in bars around Spain, and we’ll add even more munch-worthy morsels next time we update this page. (If you can’t wait check out Wikipedia’s entry for more common dishes).

We’ve mostly focused on the classics that you might find in any neighbourhood joint, but an increasing number of modern, hip and fancy places are adding their own creations to menus across the city… so our advice is just be adventurous! We’ve ordered some of the best dishes of our lives without having the foggiest clue what they were before they arrived on the table.

Keep reading to find out our favourite tapas restaurants in the city…

…article continues after photo.

23 Best Barcelona Tapas Restaurants

Despite being a typically Spanish cuisine, this famous culinary tradition is still rife here in Catalonia (where other Spanish traditions such as bull-fighting and flamenco are not considered part of the local culture).

Whereas many venues specifically choose to dub themselves ‘tapas restaurants’ you can find great snacks in many places that don’t. So here is our undiscriminating (in the good sense) guide to where to eat tapas in Barcelona…

1.

Cal Pep

A legendary venue in El Born, presided over by the eponymous Pep, this neighbourhood restaurant has been heavily covered in the travel press – and for good reason. The succulent fresh seafood tapas is widely considered to be some of the best in town. You will however have to queue – and pay – for the privilege.
Placa de les Olles 8
www.calpep.com

2. Sensi Tapas

This stylish and intimate joint can be found on Carrer Ample, a lively street in the Gothic Quarter and the perfect place to start an evening out in Barcelona. Their kitchen serves up a mix of classic and original Spanish and Mediterranean tapas, with a focus on ecological and locally sourced (kilometer zero) ingredients, with menu highlights including their oxtail croquetas, baked octopus, and Mallorquin-style paella. They also have an excellent Catalan and Spanish wine list, while the prices make you wonder if you’re reading them right… they are excellent!
Carrer Ample 24
www. sensi.es/tapas

3. Elisabets

A student favourite, it can be hard to get a table at this venue that finds itself just off Las Ramblas, but it’s worth trying your luck as the price to quality ratio is surely one of the best in the city. Patatas are served with spicy bolognese-style sauce, whilst the morcilla (blood sausage) with caramelised onions is as rich as you’d hope it to be. Wash it all down with a well-priced jarra of beer and you’re ready for a nice siesta.
C/Elisabets 2-4
www.elisabets1962.com

4. Gigi Von Tapas

Once the favoured place of bullfighting aficionados, this romantic locale has been reimagined as a hip modern tapas bar serving creative plates like tea-smoked duck breast with fermented cabbage. Choose between a place on the terrace, with views of the old Monumental Bullfighting Arena, or head inside to eat amongst flea market furnishings and tasteful antiques.
C/Marina 189
gigivontapas. com

5. Quimet i Quimet

Another Barcelona legend, Quimet i Quimet is a family owned affair in the vibrant yet untouristy Poble Sec district. There’s a touch of class to everything from the mussels to the montaditos.
C/Poeta Cabanyes 25

6. Ziryab

If you you’re bored of bravas already, this romantic restaurant provides a fresh twist with Arabic flavours such as bacon-wrapped dates and grilled halloumi taking a front seat. Limited space, so worth reserving in advance.
C/Grunyí 5
www.ziryab.es

7. Tosca

With 40 classic tapas dishes to choose from, Tosca is a perfect place to get an introduction to Spanish gastronomy. The prices are reasonable, service brisk (at least by Spanish standards) and the location is central. Particularly good if you seeing a performance at the Palau de la Musica.
C/Sant Pere Més Alt 8
toscatapas.com/palau

8. Petit Tapas

Fantastic wines from Catalonia’s Penedes and Priorat wine regions, are served with classic Spanish tapas with a twist, so that as well as ecologically sourced patatas bravas you might find yourself tucking into the likes of Thai-style monkfish souffle with coconut curry sauce. Located on Carrer Ample, a lively street in the Gothic Quarter.
C/Ample 26
petittapas.com

9. El Xampanyet

This famous Xampanyeria (champagne bar) near the Picasso Museum is a staple of guidebooks and ‘best of’ lists, so expect it to be crowded. With its art nouveau decor it’s a gorgeous locale, and the food and drinks are top class too.
C/Montcada 22

10. El 58

Fun, inventive tapas are chalked up on the board and held up by wait staff at this modern tapas on Rambla del Poblenou, and there’s even a nice terrace out back to enjoy your meal. An instant hit with savvy tourists, they are popular enough not to take reservations and you may have to wait a fair bit for a table.
Rambla del Poblenou 58
www.facebook.com/el58poblenou

11. Firebug

Specialising in small plates to share between friends, Firebug throws a modern and international slant on the Spanish trend with dishes like crispy duck pancakes, popcorn chicken and baba ghanoush popping up on their menu. A relative newcomer, you can find it on the tree-lined Passeig de Sant Joan – voted the 2nd best street in the world by Time Out.
Passeig de Sant Joan 23
firebugbarcelona.com

12. Can Paixano

A xampanyeria (champagne bar) and charcuterie in one, Can Paixano is one of the most popular eateries in Barcelona and packed – really and truly and uncomfortably packed – every night with locals who come for cheap Cava and fantastic mini-sandwichs and other dishes.
C/Reina Cristina 7
www.canpaixano.com

13. Le Bistro Sensi

Spanish and French cuisine combine at this cosy bistro-style restaurant which serves up a mix of tapas and ‘platillos’ (small plates) to share. On the menu, are the likes of: beef fillet with mashed ecological potatoes, sautéed rock mussels in white wine sauce and squid ink paella. Plates start at just a few euros, making this a great value-for-money option in the Gothic Quarter.
C/Regomir 4
www.sensi. es/bistro

14. Elsa y Fred

No prizes for guessing the names of the proprietors of this stylish establishment near the Arc de Triomf which takes some classic Spanish ingredients and rearranges them to make fun mini dishes like squid sandwiches, red tuna burgers and steak tartar tacos.
C/Comtal 11
www.elsayfred.es

15. La Boqueria Market

This is where all of Barcelona’s best ingredients are delivered so it makes sense to try some tapas right at the source… there are a good dozen or so tiny restaurants in and around the market, and lunch at La Boqueria is something you won’t forget in a hurry.
La Rambla 89

16. El Quim de la Boqueria

…of those eateries in the city’s most famous food market, El Quim is the most famous! A fraction pricey, but once you taste his xipirons amb mongetes de Santa Pau (that’s Catalan for “baby squid and beans”!) you won’t care for counting coins.
C/Rambles 91

17. Jai Ca

Jai Ca and Jai Ca 2 are a pair of classic tapas bars located in the old fishing district of Barceloneta, and are great places to sample affordable dishes in an earthy and no-nonsense traditional atmosphere. You’ll have to fight for the waiter’s attention, but that’s all part of the experience.
www.barjaica.com

18. Ceverceria Catalana

A fantastic reputation amongst locals, has led to this joint gaining a similarly exalted reputation amongst visitors, so expect to queue for a table if you knock on these doors. Linguists reading this have already surmised from the bar’s name that you can also grab a decent beer here, beyond the usual mass market fare.
Carrer de Mallorca 236

19. Bormuth

A portmanteau of the words Born, the district the bar is located in, and vermouth, one of the house’s signature drinks, it didn’t take this place long to attract the crowds. A mix of classic and modern tapas, with good service (given how crowded it gets), fair prices, and a homely vibe means its popularity is merited. Thieves do operate here though, so don’t leave mobiles on tables, or your bags under the seats where you can’t see them.
www.facebook.com/bormuthbarcelona

20.

El Tropezon

Don’t expect friendly customers service. Do expect platter loads of delectable Spanish classics, from baby octopi to specially-prepared mushrooms. Once popular with boisterous groups of cheapskate friends, it has sadly raised its prices considerably and caters more for tourists now – although the spit and sawdust vibe remains.
C/Regomir 26

21. Bar Velodromo

A great looking bar with Art Deco design and racing green finishes, Bar Velodromo carries the elegance of a bygone era into the present day. If you’re up in the Zona Alta be sure to pop by and sample off their extensive menu of well-priced tapas and snacks. Run by the Moritz brewery, who – despite being minted – don’t seem to have bothered providing a website for it sadly.
Carrer de Muntaner 213
www.barvelodromo.com

22. Can Eusebio

The gastronomic offer is functional rather than elevated, but for cheap bravas and beers in fun-loving young company Can Eusebio is your place. When I was a penniless travel writer living in Poble Sec I used to frequent this place pretty often!
Carrer de Vila i Vilà 84

23. Sol Soler

A local favourite with the people of Gracia, this unfussy and friendly restaurant specialises in vegetarian tapas. Fun and unpretentious, rather than gourmet.
Plaça del Sol 21
solsoler.barcelona.com

Our 5 Favourite Tapas Tours

Need a bit of help exploring Barcelona’s culinary realm? Enlist some professionals to guide and inform you… food is that much tastier when you understand its origins, and role in society.

1. Tapas & Wine Tour

On this gourmet tour you’ll explore two of Barcelona’s most iconic districts, the Gothic Quarter and El Borne, calling by on a total of four local restaurants for a delicious array of Spanish tapas, washed down with wine poured straight from the barrel. The group size is limited to just 12 people, so you won’t feel like a tourist, and you can choose between a midday or evening tour. A great activity to do instead of lunch / dinner. You can book the tour via Get Your Guide.

2. Beer Lover’s Tapas Tour

What’s better than tapas? Tapas paired with craft beer, that’s what! On Tapas & Beer’s ground-breaking tour you’ll journey to the hip Sant Antoni and Poble Sec districts (the same area where Ferran Adria now plies his trade!), and go on a whirlwind tasting journey that combines delicious bar snacks with Catalonia’s finest artisan ales. You’ll enjoy both creative and classic tapas, and a range of IPA, ales and stouts, as well as tour the premises of a local brewery. Runs every Thurs and Saturday and costs €79.
www.tapasandbeers.com/barcelona/food-pairing-tour

3. Evolution of Catalan Gastronomy Tour

Take a journey through the evolution of Barcelona’s cuisine on this superb tour, that starts at the abbey gardens which once fed the city, before plunging you into the sensory explosion of Sant Antoni Food Market (for some delicious Spanish cheeses and hams!), and then onto two of the district’s best eateries for both classic, and Adria-inspired, tapas. The tour finishes with a delicious sweet snack and glass of orxata in a charismatic cafe. A great activity that tells the story of the city’s culinary scene.
www.foodtoursbarcelona.com/walking-food-tour

4. Private Tapas Tour

Want a bespoke tapas tour for you and your partner, friends or family? Then one of Tapas & Beers local gastronomes will take you on a tour of some hard-to-find tapas bars and bodegas in one of Barcelona’s more authentic districts, like Poble Sec, Sant Antoni or Gracia. Their guides will help you select the specialties of the house in each place, as well as give you a cultural overview of the district and city in general.
www.tapasandbeers.com/barcelona/tapas-tour

5. Flamenco With Tapas Tasting

More Gastronomic Experiences

Meanwhile if you’re interested in finding out more about Catalonia’s and Spain’s food culture then we strongly suggest you head over to our article on gastro-tourism and explore the possibilities of cooking classes, tapas and wine tours. We’ve listed all the best experiences in town!

About the Author

Duncan established Barcelona Life in 2009, whilst freelancing for the likes of Conde Nast, The Guardian, Easyjet Magazine, CNN Traveller and many more. From interviews with Ferran Adria to revealing the secrets of the city’s poetry bordellos, he knows the city inside out… and shares all his best tips right here.

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Best tapas bars in Barcelona | Lugaris

1 CERVECERÍA CATALANA – ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS TAPAS BAR IN BARCELONA
2 TALLER DE TAPAS
3 LATERAL – THE FINE TAPAS BAR IN BARCELONA 9CA 90 BARÑET

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5 BAR DEL PLA
6 QUIMET Y QUIMET
7 JAI-CA
8 SEGONS MERCAT BARCELONA
9 EL VASO DE ORO
10 LA COVA FUMADA
- 10. 1 TOURIST APARTMENTS FOR RENT IN BARCELONA

Gradually tapas culture comes to Barcelona. And although this tradition is not yet as rooted as in other regions of the peninsula, the Catalan capital is an excellent option to try this variety of dishes. Do you like this idea? In this case, you just need to take a map of the city and mark the best tapas bars in Barcelona on it.

Whether you stay in our apartments for rent near the beach, i.e. Lugaris Beach or Lugaris Rambla, you will be in close proximity to the best traditional bars, in areas such as Barceloneta or Rambla – del – Poblenou . Take advantage of Lugaris Apartments’ excellent location in Barcelona to enjoy the delicacies of Catalan cuisine!

Do you need advice on where to go? Then take a look at our selection of the best tapas bars in Barcelona, in our opinion. But we warn you, it will be difficult for you to stop at just one of them!

CERVECERÍA CATALANA IS ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS TAPAS BARS IN BARCELONA

Without a doubt, this is one of the timeless classics. This tapas bar, located in a prestigious location in the heart of the Eixample district, is always crowded, despite the fact that the prices on its menu are far from low. In addition to traditional croquettes and the invariable patatas bravas, this establishment offers a wide selection of montaditos (such as filleted meat or crab), seafood dishes and Galician-style octopus. Try their pan-fried or grilled calamari and enjoy paired with a cold beer. You will be delighted!

Address: C/ Mallorca, 236

Telephone: 93 216 03 68

Nearest metro station: Diagonal (L3, L5, L6 y L7) or Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3 y L4)

TALL DE0 T5APAS

Can you imagine having lunch or dinner in an old restored 14th century monastery? This is exactly what Taller de Tapas offers. Choose from a generous helping of Padrón peppers or crispy bravas, grilled prawns or steamed mussels… Although the chain includes other establishments, this tapas bar, located in Barcelona’s El Born district, is the largest and most popular.

Address: C/ Argenteria, 51

Phone: 93 268 85 59

Nearest metro station: Jaume I (L4)

LATERAL – A FINE TAPAS BAR IN BARCELONA

without giving up traditional tapas, this option will be ideal. Already with three successful restaurants in Madrid, Lateral has opened in the center of Barcelona as a charming French bistro establishment. On its menu you will find mouth-watering offerings such as guacamole, mozzarella and cherry tomato salad.

Address: C/ Consell de Cent, 329

Telephone: 93 485 67 93

Nearest metro station: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3 y L4)

BAR CAÑETE

called Bar Cañete. Located a few steps from the Rambla, it offers dishes prepared with fresh products , only that imported from 0036 Market Boqueria . Among the delicacies that you should try are burrata with cherry tomatoes and vegetables, Russian salad or bread with tomatoes. How are you?

Address: C/ Unió, 17

Phone: 93 270 34 58

Nearest metro station: Liceu (L3)

BAR DEL PLA

In the El Born district, or rather on the majestic Montcada street, famous for its sights such as the Picasso Museum, this vaulted restaurant offers fine Catalan wines and cava, at the table or at the bar. In addition, this bar is very close to the Gothic Quarter and is therefore an excellent choice to rejuvenate during your tours of Barcelona. If you want to have a tasty meal in a tapas bar, this is a good choice!

Address: C/ Montcada, 2

Phone: 93 268 30 03

Nearest metro station: Jaume I (L4)

QUIMET Y QUIMET

from fresh ingredients. The undeniable quality of its menu has gone beyond Spain – even The New York Times and The Guardian, recommended to visit its for any gourmet who wants to discover Mediterranean cuisine. Would you like to bring home some delicacies and surprise your loved ones? If so, be aware that this establishment also has a small grocery store.

Address: C/ Poeta Cabanyes, 25

Phone: 93 442 31 42

Nearest metro station: Paral lel (L2 y L3)

JAI-CA

Don’t be put off by this name, which is more suitable for you Chinese restaurant than for the type of establishment we are talking about here. In fact, Jai-Ca, created back in 1955 is one of those bars you remember for a lifetime, with marble tables, wooden chairs, a long bar and a small terrace. There you will find great tapas such as mussels in tomato sauce, calamari, Galician octopus, prawns, bravas, croquettes… You will want to come back here!

Address: C/ Ginebra, 13

Telephone: 93 268 32 65

Nearest metro station: Barceloneta (L4)

SEGONS MERCAT BARCELONA

A tapas route awaits you near the Barcelona district, which leads you to the prestigious barreta route Michelin . Their dishes and tapas are prepared with fresh produce of the highest quality, dominated by a variety of freshly caught fish and seafood. The service here is fast and top notch, which adds to the excellent value for money. Note: this chain has another restaurant in Eixample, on calle de Aribau, 3 bis.

Address: C/ Balboa, 16

Telephone: 93 310 78 80

Nearest metro station: Barceloneta (L4

EL VASO DE ORO

We’re staying on the same street, and for good reason: this small bar with a classic atmosphere is located here. Enjoy their juicy Padrón peppers, patatas bravas, chocos, Russian salad, various types of their generous sandwiches, and filet with pâté and onions. By the way, this place also produces its own beer.

Address: C/ Balboa, 6

Telephone: 93 319 30 98

Nearest metro station: Barceloneta (L4)

LA COVA FUMADA

of the main gastronomic places: La Cova Fumada. This bar first opened its doors at 1944 year. Although we mentioned it before, it’s time to do it again. Because is exactly here were invented the famous bombas , delicious balls of meat and potatoes that are popular throughout the country today. In addition, here you can also try herring, sardines, Roman squid and shrimp.

Address: C/ Baluard, 56

Phone: 93 221 40 61

Nearest metro station: Barceloneta (L4)

These are just a few suggestions for a taste of Catalan tapas in Barcelona, but of course there are many more. And when you stay at Lugaris Apartments, you have all these establishments practically at your fingertips. Use this opportunity!

Check out our selection of the best restaurants in Barcelona.

Tapas bar etiquette in Barcelona, Spain

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It may seem strange that one should write an entire article about the “etiquette” of tapas. The very nature of tapas implies that in the process of eating them informally with your hands from the same plate, you need to forget about all protocols and manners. This is the whole point of tapas. However, if you’re in Barcelona for the first time, tapas can be daunting. When I first moved to Spain, I mustered all my courage to walk into a crowded bar, squeeze through to the counter, and place an order in broken Spanish. Over time, I learned some secrets that help me go for tapas easily and with pleasure. This is my chance to share these secrets with you.

Quimet y Quimet

Quimet y Quimet

I visited one of Barcelona’s oldest and most authentic tapas bars, Quimet y Quimet, to find out how the locals eat tapas.

In this article you will learn the names of different tapas dishes, how to order tapas, the names of the most popular tapas dishes in Barcelona, what to drink tapas with and how to pay.

Various names for tapas.

Tapas: This is the general term for appetizers served on the same plate for everyone. The composition of tapas can vary dramatically – from a bowl of almonds or olives to a plate of fried shrimp.

“Plato Combinado” in Quimet y Quimet

Raciones: You can often see two separate prices on the menu – one for tapas and one for raciones. It’s the same dish, just the latter is served in a larger portion – perfect for when you’re starving!

Pinchos: This dish comes from the Basque Country, an autonomous region of Spain. Pinchos is the same as tapas, but always with bread, in the form of a sandwich for one bite. Sometimes they are also called “Montaditos” (that’s what they are called in Quimet y Quimet).

Platos Combinados: This is the name of what we consider a “second course”, a full meal on a plate. But sometimes tapas is called that. In Quimet y Quimet Plato Combinado is a large plate with a variety of tapas.

Ordering tapas in Barcelona

The best tapas are usually made in crowded and smoky bars, where they are eaten standing up. The first rule is to squeeze through to the counter, don’t be intimidated by the crowd at the bar waiting for their turn to order. Let the bartenders know what you need. If you do not know how much you need to eat, then check with the person who will give you your dish if you have ordered enough. They usually answer such questions honestly.

It is also worth explaining to the waiter that you have come to eat, and not just to drink and eat. They will find you a table or place at the bar where you can put the food you order.

Bar tapas

In some tapas bars, the entire menu is displayed live under glass at the bar. And the menu itself, in printed form, you will never see. Just point to the dish you are interested in and it will be served to you. If it is a hot dish, then it will be sent to the kitchen to be warmed up, and when everything is ready, you will be called.

If your eyes widen from the choice, and you don’t know what and how much it costs, then in this case it is better to trust the waiter or waitress. Just tell them how much you want to spend, tell them about your preferences and what you would like (like shellfish or local deli meats). They will order according to your wishes. They know what’s fresh today and which dishes are specialties. And this is usually the best tapas.

If you go to a Basque pincho bar, like Euskal Etxea or Golfo de Bizkai, you will find that the etiquette is a bit different. All pintxos (we already talked about what pintxos are above) are displayed on plates along the bar counter. Just ask the waiter for a plate and start filling it. Don’t be afraid to squeeze between people sitting around. Feel free to put your favorite pintxos on the plate. After eating, be sure to save the toothpicks that hold all the pintxos together. So the waiters will be able to bill you by counting the number of toothpicks in the plate.

Common tapas in Barcelona

Tapas vary from region to region. Barcelona is not particularly famous for its tapas, compared to other regions of Spain such as the Basque Country or Andalusia. However, there are classic tapas here, which can be seen on the menu of most bars. If you think that tapas is only shrimp with chorizo and garlic, then you are wrong. Here are some tapas that you can usually find in Barcelona:

Pan con Tomate: The most typical Catalan tapas. White bread grated with tomato, sprinkled with butter and sprinkled with salt. Great addition to other tapas.

Patatas Bravas: Spanish fries. Small, deep-fried potato slices with two types of sauce: alioli (garlic mayonnaise) and spicy tomato sauce.

Chipirones: I have never seen such deep fried squid outside of Spain. You will be served a whole plate in which these tiny squids will be heaped in a slide.

Anchoas: These are not the usually very salty anchovies you are used to. These anchovies are served in vinegar with parsley and garlic. Real jam.

Russian salad: Not the most healthy salad for the body. This is a heavy dish that consists of potatoes, green peas, hard-boiled eggs and some vegetables, seasoned with mayonnaise.

Croquetas: Croquetas are usually made with ham, fish, chicken or spinach. They are made from a sauce similar to bechamel sauce, only bread crumbs are added to it and deep-fried.

Few people know, but Barcelona is one of the first cities in the world where you can find the highest quality canned food. Check out your local grocery store, the prices for some canned goods will amaze you. The price of a can of clams can go up to €40.00. Keep this in mind if you are served canned tuna or sea shank. Such canned food can be considered in no way inferior to high-quality fresh products. Forget the jellied eels, tuck into the local cuisine and try to catch those subtle flavors that the locals love so much. Quimet y Quimet specializes in such seafood.

Tapas drinks

There are no strict rules on the choice of tapas drinks. Of course, everything will depend on what kind of tapas you choose. However, you will notice that the locals prefer to drink light drinks. In pincho bars, this is usually Basque cider or light white wine Txacoli . A quick look at the bars in Barcelona reveals that most locals drink Cava or Vermouth . Strong red wine is not recommended for tapas, as it can drown out the taste buds. Between different tapas, you should drink a light, refreshing, cool wine or simple-tasting cider so that you can enjoy the richness of the different tapas.

Paying the bill for tapas in Barcelona

Locals like to talk about “guiris” – tourists and foreigners who came to the city without knowing anything about its culture. The quickest way to give yourself “guiri” is to try to pay for tapas immediately after ordering.