As widespread in Spain as they are practically absent in Italy: we are talking about Tapas Bars, do you know them? Whether on the high Basque cliffs or in the sunny Andalusian plains, these establishments kick off a cheerful late-afternoon ritual. If you have been to Spain, you know exactly what we are talking about. If not, let this little guide to the best Tapas Bars in Barcelona advise you.
What are Tapas?
These tasty dishes were born to fill diners' bellies between sips of wine. The mug, in fact, was served'tapado', i.e., covered with a saucer with jamón (ham), chorizo (salami) or cheese to prevent pests from getting into the drink.
With the passage of time, tapas have evolved considerably, becoming more and more elaborate preparations. Now you can even find real miniature versions of typical Spanish dishes. "Ir de tapas' traditionally means moving from one Tapas Bar to another while consuming what we would call an aperitif. This pleasurable ritual can last until 9pm and the tradition is to visit at least 14 Tapas Bars!
The best Tapas Bars in town
Patatas bravas, tortillas, fried fish, jamón serrano, mini paellas, croquetas, you name it! Typical recipes and fusion alternatives that follow only one rule: nibble!
1 - Bar Celta Pulperia
Address: Carrer de la Mercè, 9
Tel: +34 933 15 00 06
Legendary for its octopus, it's mostly frequented by locals. All seafood is worth trying. To enter this historic pulperia in the Barrio Gotico and not taste the Polpo alla Gallega is practically an outrage. Excellent value for money.
2 - Cal Pep
Address: Pl. de les Olles 8
Tel: +34 933 107 961
Website: www.calpep.com
It is one of the best known and appreciated in the city and is located in the Barceloneta area. It has an open kitchen and offers an endless amount of tapas. Its fresh fish fritters are almost legendary. Excellent quality/price ratio: not cheap, but the expense is worth the goodness of the dishes on offer.
3 - Bodega Manolo
Address: C/Torrent de les Flors 101
Tel: +34 932 84 43 77
It is a kind of small family-run restaurant in the heart of the Graçia district. It offers excellent tapas and is frequented almost exclusively by locals. We recommend the fresh anchovies served with salad and Greek yoghurt and tomato. Excellent value for money.
4 - D'Or Cerveceria
Address: Carrer de València 263
Tel: +34 932 15 92 36
A small place near Passeig de Graçia that prepares excellent bombetes salsa and croquetas pernil. Good prices and excellent tapas.
5 - Cerveceria Catalana
Address: Carrer de Mallorca 236
Tel: +34 932 16 03 68
Well known and very popular with locals, but not among the cheapest. The highlight is the craft beer that you can enjoy with many tasty tapas. Great place to eat, which is why you will find a bit of a queue. Arm yourself with patience.
6 - El Quim
Address: Mercado de La Boqueria, La Rambla 91
Tel: +34 933 01 98 10
Website: www.elquimdelaboqueria.com
It is located inside the beautiful and colourful Boqueria market. Prices start at 5 Euros and the management is strictly family-run.
Among the tapas you should try boquerones, chipirones and arroz negro. They don't take reservations and it's always crowded.
7 - Els Pollos de Llul
Address: C/ Nàpols 272 and C/ Ramon Turró 13
Tel: +34 607 35 02 89
Website: www.elspollos.com
It is famous for its roasted chicken, free-range and crispy. Highly recommended at lunchtime: a few euros to enjoy chicken, salad and dessert.
8 - La Plata
Address: C/ Mercé 28
Tel: + 34 933151009
Website: www.barlaplata.com
You must try this place simply because it is not like the others! Here there are only 4 tapas, like in the old days when it opened in 1945. Spartan atmosphere but with character.
9 - Euskal Etxea
Address: Placeta de Montcada1
Tel: +34 933 10 21 85
Website: www.euskaletxeataberna.com
It is not exactly a cheap place, but they serve dozens and dozens of varieties of tapas. They are all original, tasty and delicious. It is a more touristy Tapas Bar than others, but still worth a stop.
10 - Flash Flash
Address: Carrer de la Granada del Penedès 25
Tel: +34 932 37 09 90
Website: www.flashflashbarcelona.com
A tortilleria that has become a real social phenomenon! Flash Flash offers more than 70 types of tortillas, but also serves beans, good sausage and tasty burgers. A place to stuff yourself while spending little.
Where to stay in Barcelona?
Le Méridien Barcelona is one of the top hotels in Barcelona, and it's the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a comfortable and convenient place to rest after a long day of exploring the city. Located in the heart of Barcelona, this hotel offers easy access to some of the best tapas bars in the city. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable beds and all the amenities you need to make your stay enjoyable. Plus, the hotel has a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the city.