Barcelona is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture and, of course, its delicious cuisine. Among the many culinary treasures the city has to offer, tapas stand out as a must-try experience for food lovers. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the 20 best tapas bars in Barcelona, where you can savor a wide variety of gastronomic delights and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere that characterizes the city’s culinary scene.
Each of the 20 tapas bars selected for this list has been chosen for their culinary excellence, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to the tapas tradition.
So get ready for a culinary journey in Barcelona, where you can enjoy the delicious gastronomy and lively atmosphere that the city has to offer. Explore the 20 best tapas bars and let yourself be seduced by the traditional flavors and innovative creations that make Barcelona a paradise for lovers of good food. Start your gastronomic adventure and let yourself be surprised by the unique essence of tapas in this charming Mediterranean city!
El Xampanyet – Carrer de Montcada, 22
With a history dating back more than a century, this cozy establishment is considered one of the city’s gastronomic treasures.
The traditional and lively atmosphere of El Xampanyet will transport you to another era. Its tiled walls and wine barrels create a rustic and cozy atmosphere. The bar is known for its specialty cava, a Catalan sparkling wine, which you can enjoy while you delight in a wide selection of traditional tapas.
The tapas at El Xampanyet are authentic and delicious. You can taste its famous Spanish omelette, salted anchovies, Iberian sausages or delicious homemade croquettes. They also offer a variety of fresh and tasty seafood.
The quality of the food and attention to detail make El Xampanyet a very popular place with locals and tourists alike. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu and help you find the perfect combination of tapas and cava.
If you want to immerse yourself in the authentic tapas experience in Barcelona, El Xampanyet is definitely a place you should visit. Enjoy the delicious food, traditional atmosphere and warmth of this historic tapas bar in the heart of the city.
Quimet & Quimet – Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25
Although modest in size, this place stands out for its exceptional selection of gourmet tapas and its cozy atmosphere.
Since its opening in 1914, Quimet & Quimet has been a favorite among tapas lovers in Barcelona. The bar is meticulously decorated with shelves full of wine bottles and gourmet products, creating a unique and picturesque atmosphere.
Quimet & Quimet’s specialty is canned food and montaditos, small bites that combine high quality ingredients in surprising combinations. You can enjoy a wide variety of flavors, such as anchovies, smoked salmon, foie gras, artisanal cheeses and more. Their creative and carefully crafted combinations will surprise you and satisfy your taste buds.
In addition to tapas, Quimet & Quimet offers an excellent selection of wines and craft beers that perfectly complement the flavors of their creations. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to recommend the best combinations for you to enjoy your dining experience to the fullest.
Despite its popularity, the atmosphere at Quimet & Quimet remains authentic and cozy. The narrow bar and shared tables create a lively and sociable atmosphere, where you can enjoy the company of friends and meet other food lovers.
If you are looking for a unique and quality gastronomic experience in Barcelona, Quimet & Quimet is the ideal place. Let yourself be carried away by its gourmet tapas, its surprising combinations and its cozy atmosphere. Discover why this small bar has become a culinary gem of the city and a must stop for lovers of good food and wine.
Bar Mut – Carrer de Pau Claris, 192
It is a sophisticated and elegant tapas bar that offers a unique culinary experience. Since its opening, this establishment has earned an outstanding reputation for its exceptional cuisine and distinguished ambiance.
The interior of Bar Mut is tastefully decorated, combining modern and traditional elements. The atmosphere is cozy and refined, making it a perfect place to enjoy gourmet tapas in an elegant setting.
Bar Mut’s culinary proposal stands out for its focus on high quality ingredients and refined flavors. Its menu offers a wide variety of creative and exquisite tapas, prepared with fresh and seasonal products. You can delight yourself with dishes such as homemade croquettes, fresh seafood, a selection of Iberian sausages and unique montaditos.
In addition to its outstanding cuisine, Bar Mut has an impressive selection of high-end wines and spirits. Its wine list includes a wide variety of national and international options to suit all tastes and preferences.
The service at Bar Mut is impeccable, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff that is willing to advise you on your choice of tapas and drinks. Their attention to detail and passion for gastronomy is reflected in every dish they serve.
In short, Bar Mut is an essential destination for lovers of good food and good atmosphere in Barcelona. Its gourmet cuisine, elegant ambiance and exceptional service combine to offer a memorable dining experience. If you are looking for sophisticated and refined tapas, Bar Mut is the perfect place for you.
Bar Jai-ca – Carrer de Ginebra, 13
Bar Jai-Ca is located in the emblematic neighborhood of Barceloneta and has a history of almost 70 years that is reflected in its authentic appearance. Since 1955, this family business has been a daily meeting point for neighborhood residents, customers from all parts of the city and tourists from all over the world looking to enjoy the tapas that have become a tradition.
The premises, with a modernist charm, has kept the original wooden bar with an elegant rounded curve, giving the room a distinctive and recognizable character.
In 2012, they opened a new location under the same name, located at number 9 Geneva Street, right on the corner of the original location. This new space is larger and allows them to cater to groups and special events, without losing the same style and quality service that characterizes them.
Whether you are looking for classic and traditional tapas or want to enjoy a vermouth and extend your stay until lunch, our bar is an excellent option to enjoy with friends and family.
La Cova Fumada – Carrer del Baluart, 56
La Cova Fumada, located at Carrer del Baluart, 56 in Barcelona, is an iconic and traditional bar that has been part of the city’s gastronomic landscape for over a century. With its rustic charm and lively atmosphere, this establishment is famous for its homemade tapas and authenticity.
La Cova Fumada is a place where you can breathe history and tradition. Its weathered walls and simple décor will transport you to another era, offering you an authentic and genuine experience. This bar is known for being the creator of the bomba, a delicious tapa consisting of a minced meat and potato croquette, accompanied by a spicy and tasty sauce.
In addition to the famous bomba, La Cova Fumada offers a variety of other homemade and tasty tapas. You can enjoy dishes such as grilled shrimp, cuttlefish, fried eggplant and much more. Each tapa is prepared with fresh, quality ingredients, highlighting the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
The Cova Fumada is a lively and busy place, where locals mingle with tourists. Its narrow bar and shared tables create a sociable and friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying good conversation and a glass of wine or beer while savoring the gastronomic delights on offer.
In short, La Cova Fumada is an emblematic bar in Barcelona that has stood the test of time and maintained its traditional essence. If you are looking for an authentic homemade tapas experience in an atmosphere full of history and charm, this is the place for you. Enjoy the tasty tapas, the lively atmosphere and the warmth of this culinary treasure in the heart of the city.
Can Paixano (La Xampanyeria) – Carrer de la Reina Cristina, 7
With a history dating back more than a century, this place is famous for its sparkling wine and lively atmosphere.
When you enter Can Paixano, you will find a bar full of hustle and bustle and energy. The place is simply and traditionally decorated, with wine barrels and shared tables that encourage interaction among diners. It is a rustic and authentic space that transports you to the essence of traditional tapas bars.
Can Paixano’s specialty is its cava, a Catalan sparkling wine that is served in abundance. You can enjoy glasses of fresh and bubbly cava, accompanied by a selection of delicious tapas. Among the outstanding options are charcuterie sandwiches, grilled sausages and assorted montaditos. Prices are affordable, making Can Paixano popular with both locals and tourists.
In addition to its excellent cava and tapas, Can Paixano offers a lively and sociable atmosphere. It is common to see people enjoying their drinks and tapas standing at the bar or at the outdoor tables. This festive and lively atmosphere makes it an ideal place to socialize and enjoy the authentic tapas bar experience in Barcelona.
In short, Can Paixano (La Xampanyeria) is a traditional and bustling bar in Barcelona, known for its sparkling cava and lively atmosphere. If you are looking for an authentic and lively tapas and cava experience in a traditional setting, this bar is a must stop during your visit to the city. Enjoy the bubbly cava, delicious tapas and vibrant atmosphere that Can Paixano offers.
Teatro kitchen & bar – Avinguda del Paral-lel, 164
It is a bar that combines the essence of theater with gastronomy. This unique venue offers an experience that combines delicious dishes, creative cocktails and a theatrical and sophisticated atmosphere.
When you enter Teatro Kitchen & Bar, you will be surprised by its elegant and thematic decoration, which evokes the atmosphere of a classic theater. Soft lighting and carefully selected details create an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
The culinary proposal of Teatro Kitchen & Bar stands out for its fusion of flavors and its artistic presentation. The menu offers a variety of creative dishes that combine fresh and quality ingredients. From innovative tapas to main dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, each creation is a culinary masterpiece.
In addition to its gastronomic offer, Teatro Kitchen & Bar stands out for its cocktail bar, where expert mixologists prepare unique and sophisticated drinks. You can enjoy a wide selection of reinvented classic cocktails and original creations, all made with skill and passion.
El Vaso de Oro – Carrer de Balboa, 6
It is a classic and traditional bar that has become an institution in the city’s tapas scene. With its lively atmosphere and wide variety of tasty tapas, this place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
When you enter El Vaso de Oro, you will find a cozy and lively space, full of bustle and activity. The bar is simply decorated, but its authenticity and charm make it unique. The tables and bar are filled with freshly prepared tapas, creating an enticing display of flavors and colors.
El Vaso de Oro’s specialty is Basque-style tapas, which stand out for their freshness and intense flavor. You can delight yourself with dishes such as patatas bravas, homemade croquettes, prawns with garlic, assorted montaditos and many other options. Each tapa is made with quality ingredients and served in generous portions.
In addition to tapas, El Vaso de Oro has an impressive selection of craft beers. You can enjoy a wide range of local and national beers, which are perfectly paired with the tapas served. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to recommend the perfect beer and tapa combination.
The atmosphere at El Vaso de Oro is vibrant and sociable. It is common to see customers enjoying their tapas standing at the bar, interacting with the waiters and other diners. This lively and authentic atmosphere creates a casual yet exciting dining experience.
El Quim de la Boqueria – Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, Stall 584
El Quim de la Boqueria is an iconic bar located inside the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria in Barcelona. With its privileged location in one of the most famous markets in the city, this establishment is known for its quality cuisine and authentic tapas.
As you enter El Quim de la Boqueria, you will be enveloped by the bustle and enticing aromas of the market. The bar is located in a corner, with stools around the bar and small tables that invite diners to enjoy their meal while watching the hustle and bustle of the market.
The cuisine at El Quim de la Boqueria focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, sourced directly from the market stalls. Its menu offers a wide variety of tapas and traditional Catalan dishes, such as patatas bravas, garlic prawns, homemade croquettes and Galician octopus. Each dish is expertly prepared and highlights the authentic flavors of the local cuisine.
The atmosphere at El Quim de la Boqueria is lively and welcoming. The friendly and efficient staff is always ready to provide recommendations and serve you with a smile. You can enjoy your meal while interacting with locals and tourists visiting the market, creating an authentic and social dining experience.
Cal Pep – Plaça de les Olles, 8
Cal Pep, located at Plaça de les Olles, 8 in Barcelona, is an emblematic bar renowned for its high quality Mediterranean cuisine. With its cozy atmosphere and focus on fresh and seasonal products,
Cal Pep is a popular destination for lovers of good food.
Upon entering Cal Pep, you will find a small but lively space, where the bar is the center of attention. This place does not accept reservations, so it is common to see diners waiting their turn to enjoy their dishes. The décor is simple but cozy, allowing you to focus on the food.
Cal Pep’s specialty is tapas and fresh seafood dishes. Its menu changes daily according to the products available in the market. You can delight yourself with a wide selection of seafood and fish, such as shrimp, mussels, squid and much more. Each dish is expertly prepared and enhances the authentic flavors of the fresh ingredients.
In addition to seafood dishes, Cal Pep also offers a variety of tapas, meat and vegetable dishes. From classic patatas bravas to homemade croquettes and fried eggplant, there are options for all tastes. You can also enjoy a selection of wines and beers to accompany your meal.
The atmosphere at Cal Pep is lively and bustling. The bar is the ideal place to sit and enjoy the food while interacting with the waiters and other diners. The quality of the food and friendly service make Cal Pep popular with both locals and tourists.
La Plata – Carrer de la Mercè, 28
La Plata, located at Carrer de la Mercè, 28 in Barcelona, is a traditional and unpretentious bar that has become an institution in the city’s tapas scene. With its authentic ambiance and simple but tasty dishes, this place attracts both locals and tourists looking for an authentic culinary experience.
As you enter La Plata, you will be greeted by walls covered with photos and memorabilia, creating a nostalgic and cozy atmosphere. The bar is small and is usually full of diners looking to enjoy its famous tapas.
La Plata’s specialty is its classic tapa of bread with tomato and a selection of cold meats and cheeses. This simple but delicious combination is a hit with visitors. You can also try other traditional tapas, such as marinated anchovies, homemade meatballs and patatas bravas.
La Plata prides itself on using fresh, quality ingredients in its dishes. The authentic flavors and the simplicity of its culinary proposal are part of the charm of this bar. In addition, the service is friendly and fast, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.
The atmosphere in La Plata is lively and noisy, with people enjoying their food and chatting with friends and strangers alike. This is a place where you can feel the true essence of the tapas culture in Barcelona.
Bar del Pla – Carrer de Montcada, 2
Bar del Pla, located at Carrer de Montcada, 2 in Barcelona, is a cozy and charming bar that perfectly combines tradition with innovation in its gastronomic proposal. With a privileged location in the Gothic Quarter of the city, this establishment has earned a reputation for offering high quality tapas and dishes.
When you enter the Bar del Pla, you will be greeted by its stone walls and rustic decor, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The space is intimate and inviting, with small tables and a bar where you can enjoy your meal while watching the bar activity.
The cuisine at Bar del Pla stands out for its focus on fresh, local ingredients. The menu offers a variety of tapas and dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, fusing traditional flavors with modern techniques. From classic homemade croquettes to fresh oysters, Bar del Pla offers a wide range of options to satisfy every palate.
In addition to the excellent food, Bar del Pla has a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails to accompany your dishes. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and will be happy to recommend the best option to pair with your tapas.
The atmosphere at Bar del Pla is lively but relaxed. It is a popular place for both locals and tourists looking for an authentic dining experience. The attention to detail, the quality of the ingredients and the cozy atmosphere make this bar a must-visit in Barcelona.
Paco Meralgo – Carrer de Muntaner, 171
Bar Paco Meralgo, located at Carrer de Muntaner, 171 in Barcelona, is a renowned and acclaimed tapas bar that combines Spanish culinary tradition with a touch of creativity. With its modern and elegant ambiance, this establishment has managed to captivate local and visiting diners alike.
When you enter Paco Meralgo Bar, you will be surprised by its contemporary design and cozy atmosphere. The space is carefully decorated, with a central bar where you can enjoy tapas prepared on the spot by expert chefs.
The cuisine at Bar Paco Meralgo is a fusion of traditional Spanish cuisine with innovative touches. Its menu offers a wide variety of tapas, from classics such as Iberian ham and croquettes, to more creative and sophisticated creations. Each dish is carefully prepared with fresh, high quality ingredients and highlights the authentic flavors of Spanish cuisine.
In addition to tapas, Bar Paco Meralgo also has an excellent selection of wines and liquors to accompany your meal. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and willing to provide recommendations on food pairings and featured dishes.
The atmosphere at Bar Paco Meralgo is lively and vibrant, especially during peak hours. It is a popular place for food lovers, whether for an informal meal or a more elegant evening of tapas. The quality of the food, the impeccable service and the sophisticated atmosphere make the experience at Bar Paco Meralgo unforgettable.
Tapas 24 – Carrer de la Diputació, 269
Bar Tapas 24, located at Carrer de la Diputació, 269 in Barcelona, is a must for tapas lovers in the city. With its modern style and focus on traditional Catalan cuisine, this bar has gained recognition for its quality and culinary creativity.
When you enter Bar Tapas 24, you will be surprised by its contemporary and cozy atmosphere. The interior design is elegant, with a combination of modern and rustic elements that create a pleasant space to enjoy a meal.
The cuisine at Bar Tapas 24 is based on the Catalan tradition, but with a creative touch. Its menu offers a wide variety of tapas, from classics such as Spanish omelette and patatas bravas, to more innovative interpretations such as truffle and Iberian ham bikini or squid sandwich.
Dishes at Bar Tapas 24 are prepared with fresh, quality ingredients, highlighting the authentic flavors of Catalan cuisine. In addition to tapas, they also offer a selection of main courses and desserts, all with a touch of creativity and impeccable presentation.
The atmosphere at Bar Tapas 24 is lively and bustling, especially during peak hours. It is popular with locals and tourists alike, and is usually packed with diners enjoying a casual and tasty meal. The service is friendly and efficient, which contributes to a satisfying dining experience.
La Taverna del Clínic – Carrer del Roselló, 155
La Taverna del Clínic, located at Carrer del Roselló, 155 in Barcelona, is a tapas bar that combines tradition with an innovative and sophisticated gastronomic proposal. With a modern and elegant ambiance, this establishment has gained recognition for its excellent cuisine and attention to detail.
When you enter La Taverna del Clínic, you will be surprised by its contemporary design and cozy atmosphere. The decoration combines rustic elements with modern touches, creating a warm and pleasant space to enjoy tapas.
The cuisine at La Taverna del Clínic stands out for its focus on seasonal and high quality ingredients. The menu offers a wide variety of tapas, from classics such as croquettes and bravas, to more innovative and sophisticated creations. Each dish is carefully prepared, elegantly presented and with a surprising balance of flavors.
In addition to tapas, La Taverna del Clínic has an excellent selection of wines and liquors to accompany your dishes. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and will be happy to provide you with recommendations and suggestions to make the most of your dining experience.
The atmosphere at La Taverna del Clínic is refined and relaxed, perfect for those looking for a more sophisticated meal. It is an ideal place for a romantic dinner as well as for a meeting with friends, where you can enjoy high quality gastronomy in an elegant and relaxed environment.
Bar Cañete – Carrer de la Unió, 17
Bar Cañete, located at Carrer de la Unió, 17 in Barcelona, is an iconic and traditional tapas bar that captivates diners with its authenticity and delicious gastronomy. With more than 50 years of history, this establishment has become a reference for tapas lovers in the city.
When you enter Bar Cañete, you will be immersed in a cozy and lively atmosphere. The space is decorated with classic and rustic elements, creating a traditional and pleasant atmosphere to enjoy an authentic tapas experience.
The cuisine at Bar Cañete stands out for its focus on the traditional flavors of Spanish cuisine. Its menu offers a wide selection of tapas, from classics such as garlic prawns and croquettes, to more elaborate dishes such as Galician octopus and Russian salad. The ingredients are fresh and of high quality, and each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.
In addition to tapas, Bar Cañete has an outstanding selection of wines and liquors, perfect for pairing with your favorite dishes. The staff is friendly and helpful, and is willing to provide you with recommendations and suggestions to make the most of your dining experience.
The atmosphere at Bar Cañete is lively and bustling, especially during peak hours. It is a very popular place with both locals and tourists who wish to enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine in a traditional setting. The quality of the food, the friendly service and the traditional atmosphere make Bar Cañete a must visit in Barcelona.
Els Sortidors del Parlament – Carrer del Parlament, 53
Els Sortidors del Parlament bar, located at Carrer del Parlament, 53 in Barcelona, is a cozy and charming wine and tapas bar that delights its customers with a careful selection of local products and a relaxed atmosphere. With its rustic style and passion for wine, this establishment has become a popular place to enjoy an authentic dining experience.
When you enter Els Sortidors del Parlament, you will be greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decoration of the place is rustic and traditional, with stone walls and charming details that create a unique and cozy atmosphere.
The specialty of Els Sortidors del Parlament is its extensive selection of wines, covering a wide range of varieties and regions. From local Catalan wines to renowned international wines, the bar offers a tasting experience for those who wish to explore and enjoy the flavors of wine.
In addition to wines, Els Sortidors del Parlament also stands out for its tapas and small plates. Their menu varies according to the season and the availability of fresh, local ingredients. You can enjoy a selection of cheeses, cured meats, croquettes and other delicacies, which are prepared with care and attention to detail.
The atmosphere at Els Sortidors del Parlament is relaxed and laid-back, ideal for those looking to enjoy a glass of wine and some tapas in a pleasant setting. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, willing to offer wine pairing recommendations and personalized attention.
Bar El Velódromo- Muntaner, 213
The bar El Velódromo, located at C/ de Muntaner, 213 in Barcelona, is an iconic establishment with a long history and unique charm. With its retro atmosphere and vintage style, this bar has witnessed numerous stories over the years and remains a popular spot for locals and visitors to the city.
When you enter El Velódromo, you will be transported to another era with its original décor and nostalgic atmosphere. Walls adorned with antique photographs, classic wooden furniture and dim lighting create a cozy atmosphere full of charm.
El Velódromo’s specialty is its wide selection of drinks, which includes a variety of classic and contemporary cocktails, wines, beers and spirits. The bar is a focal point, where skilled bartenders prepare drinks with mastery and attention to detail.
In addition to drinks, El Velódromo offers a menu of traditional dishes and delicious tapas to satisfy the cravings of its customers. From classics such as patatas bravas and calamares a la romana to more innovative options, the bar has a varied and tasty gastronomic offer.
The atmosphere at El Velódromo is lively and full of life, especially during peak hours. It is a place where locals and visitors mingle, creating a cosmopolitan and vibrant atmosphere. The staff is friendly and professional, providing quality service to customers.
La Pepita – Carrer de Còrsega, 343
La Pepita bar, located at Carrer de Còrsega, 343 in Barcelona, is a lively and popular place to enjoy authentic and delicious tapas. With its modern and cozy atmosphere, this establishment stands out for its culinary creativity and its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Upon entering La Pepita, you will be surprised by its contemporary design and vibrant ambiance. The space is stylishly decorated and features a lively bar and comfortable tables to enjoy the dining experience.
La Pepita’s specialty is its gourmet tapas, especially its famous stuffed sandwiches, which are true culinary gems. Each sandwich is carefully prepared with fresh ingredients and surprising flavors, creating unique and delicious combinations.
In addition to sandwiches, La Pepita offers a variety of traditional tapas and small plates, all prepared with attention to detail and attractively presented. You can enjoy options such as homemade croquettes, assorted sandwiches, fresh salads and much more.
The atmosphere at La Pepita is lively and bustling, especially during peak hours. It is a very popular place with both locals and tourists looking to enjoy authentic Catalan gastronomy in a modern and pleasant environment. The staff’s attention is friendly and efficient, which contributes to a satisfactory dining experience.
La Tasqueta de Blai – Carrer de Blai, 17
La Tasqueta de Blai bar, located at Carrer de Blai, 17 in Barcelona, is a charming and lively pintxo and tapas bar that offers a unique gastronomic experience. With its casual atmosphere and wide variety of options, this establishment has become a favorite among food lovers and locals alike.
When you enter La Tasqueta de Blai, you will be immersed in a bustling and cozy atmosphere. The place is decorated in a simple but charming way, with high tables and a bar full of delicious pintxos and tapas options.
The specialty of La Tasqueta de Blai are the pintxos, small portions of food served on a slice of bread and fastened with a toothpick. The pintxos are displayed at the bar, and customers can choose the ones they like the most. From classic options such as tortilla de patatas and serrano ham, to more innovative and tasty creations, there is something for everyone.
In addition to pintxos, La Tasqueta de Blai also offers a selection of tapas and small plates, which vary according to the season and the availability of fresh ingredients. You can enjoy options such as croquettes, patatas bravas, Galician octopus and much more.
The atmosphere at La Tasqueta de Blai is cheerful and lively, with the vibrant conversation of the diners and the attentive staff making sure everyone is well taken care of. It is an ideal place to enjoy an informal meal and share with friends or family.
