What is that thing that everyone keeps telling you to eat in Barcelona? Oh yes – tapas! Tapas are small plates of mostly savoury dishes that are often ordered in sets of 3-5 depending on the size of a table. They are a huge part of the culture in Spain, it’s a way for people to enjoy Spanish food, connect with one another and enjoy the moment!
In the old times, tapas were pretty simple and were made to accompany drinks especially at bars. In time, it became a more traditional meal across Spain and each region has its own way of making different types of tapas.
These little bites are the result of the culture of eating and drinking in Spain and truly reflect many historical and social aspects of Spanish life, they are also incredibly delicious and well worth a try while in Barcelona!
Here are our top 8 Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona!
1. BLAI 9
Blai 9 is a local tapas bar a bit off the tourist path. You will eat like a local at this establishment as its the perfect place for good and affordable tapas! The prices range between € 1- €8 – which is great. The tapas here are mostly served cold and they offer both sweet and savoury plates! It’s hard to make a choice here as everything looks so good but you are sure to enjoy it once you decide! Don’t forget to grab a Cava Sangria here with your tapas – its delicious!
Address: Carrer de Blai ,9
2. TALLER DE TAPAS
Taller de Tapas is actually a chain of taperias around the city. Their tapas are cooked to order so they are fresh, simple and traditional! If you can’t decide what to get on the menu then make sure to get the “menu de tapas”, which gives you a taste of typical tapas dishes like croquetas, montaditos, patatas bravas and pimestos de padron. Accompany this with a delicious pitcher of Sangria.
Address: St.Josep Oriol, 9
Phone: +34 93 301 80 20
3. PACO MERALGO
Paco Meralgo has a very relaxing ambience for a tapas bar, opened in 2002, this bar has a minimalist design and high tables and bar stools. They do not give big portions of tapas but rather small versions with high-quality ingredients. Their menu has tapas to share, dishes for meat lovers and montaditos (a type of Spanish bread). One of their signature dishes is their Andalusian gazpacho, which has a deliciously strong tomato flavour, local mushrooms and Padron pepper. Go here for a unique experience of a taperia!
Address: Calle Muntaner 171
Phone: +34 934 30 90 27
4. SENSI TAPAS
Sensi Tapas offers a different experience for tapas lovers. They have a much more complicated menu in comparison to regular tapas bars. They offer a range of classical Spanish tapas with their own touch but also serve oriental tapas such as Iberian pork loin tataki or Asian style tuna tartare. There is also a list of suggested items by the chef which includes an ox cheek mini burger or a Normandy style casserole. It’s a truly different experience but it’s well worth it!
Address: Career Ample 26
Phone: +34 932 95 65 88
5. EL XAMPANYET
El Xampanyet is a traditional and authentic tapas bar located near the Picasso Museum. It is very popular among locals and has been in existence since 1929! They have a much more homey atmosphere and you can pick what you want from their display. There walls are covered with bottles of wine and beer and you can see the jamons hanging behind the counter! Try as much tapas as you can here – they are heavenly!
Address: Carrer de Montcada, 22
Phone: +34 933 19 70 03
6. BODEGA BIARRITZ 1881
Bodega Biarritz has long open buffets where you can try a variety of pinchos and tapas. If you don’t want to wait in line you can also order one of their two surprise menus: one with 8 chosen tapas from the buffet and one with Jamon Iberico. The place is moderately priced, has an awesome staff, a cosy feeling and most of all, exquisite food!
Address: Calle Vidre, 8
Phone: +34 618 67 79 27
7. QUIMET E QUIMET
This one might be a little hard to spot from the outside but you will recognize it from the big ruby coloured door. Quimet e Quimet has a small room with a high ceiling stacked with all types of alcohol and canned fish tins. They have a super long menu with all kinds of tapas, especially with seafood! Make sure to go early as it gets crowded very quickly!
Address: Poeta Cabanyes 25
Phone: +34 934 42 31 42
8. TAPAS 24
Tapas 24 does not have a long menu but rather a small and cleverly organized menu. The aim here is not to eat too much but rather it is to appreciate the food, service and culture. The food here is fresh and appetizing! If you sit down by the counter you can also see the chefs cooking up your meals! Portions are smaller here as well, so make sure to order couple tapas for your tasting. Also a plus, Tapas 24 is a recommended Michelin spot.
Address: Carrer de la Diputacio, 269
Phone: +34 934 88 09 77