Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona

Tapas bars are an essential part of Barcelona’s daily life. Every dish served in these bars reflects the intricacies of traditional Spanish and Catalan cuisine. Tapas, which you can enjoy either standing at the counter in some places or seated in an elegant setting in others, are at the heart of Barcelona’s food culture.

In this guide, we’ve compiled Barcelona’s standout tapas bars, from classic establishments serving since the 1930s to new-generation cuisine, from neighborhood bars to award-winning chefs’ restaurants. We’ve gathered each venue’s unique characteristics, signature dishes, and practical information for you. Let’s begin!

Classic Tapas Bars in Barcelona

Sometimes the best way to experience a city is to eat like the locals. These places have stood the test of time and retain their tapas power, never disappointing.

Bar Cañete

Would you like some elegance with your tapas? Bar Cañete is perfect in every way – serving flawless croquettes, tender calamari, and the kind of service that makes you wish you lived here. This establishment has been around since the 1930s, making it a place where you’ll experience both a piece of Barcelona’s history and today’s gastronomic pleasure. Check their website at least 2 weeks in advance – they have limited tables and are very popular. Don’t forget to order Croquetas de Jamón and Gambas a la Plancha.

Address: Carrer de la Unió, 17, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Website: barcanete.com

Quimet & Quimet

Small, intimate, and full of character. This is where locals come to enjoy fantastic food, so you’ll need to get used to standing and snacking. The montaditos (mini sandwiches) are filled with quality ingredients. Our favorites are the salmon with yogurt and truffle honey, and the tomato and olive paste – pure luxury in a single bite. With its lively atmosphere, it’s a true reflection of Barcelona’s vibrant food culture. You’ll feel like a local from your first bite. No reservation needed – I prefer it for a quick daytime snack rather than dinner. Balancing small plates while holding a wine glass like a professional is something of a rite of passage.

Address: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25, Sants-Montjuïc, 08004 Barcelona
Website: quimetiquimet.com

Bormuth

Located in the heart of El Born, Bormuth has carved out its own unique place in the area’s tapas scene since 2012. Operating from an old building on Sant Pere Més Alt Street, this tapas bar is one of the rare places offering classic Spanish flavors at reasonable prices.

The venue’s high ceilings, weathered brick walls, and bar adorned with wine barrels carry all the characteristic features of a typical Barcelona taverna. You’ll see that Bormuth, which gets quite crowded especially after 20:00, is frequently preferred by locals as well.

Address: Plaça Comercial, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Website: bormuthbarcelona.com

Suru

An elegant venue where modern cuisine meets tapas tradition. Opened in 2021, Suru reinterprets the traditional tapas concept with a contemporary approach. Its minimalist interior design and meticulously prepared plates are a beautiful example of Barcelona’s innovative culinary scene. Don’t forget to try the chef’s special menu, particularly the seafood options are noteworthy.

Address: Carrer de Casanova, 134, Eixample, 08036 Barcelona
Website: surubarcelona.com

Extra Bar

A tapas bar where you can truly feel the local atmosphere. With its relaxed environment and friendly service, it’s ideal for those wanting to experience authentic Barcelona. In this venue, where conversations in Catalan float through the air, you can witness the city’s daily life. Come during happy hour and enjoy classic tapas accompanied by vermouth.

Address: Carrer del Torrent de l’Olla, 79, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona
Instagram: @extra_bar

Vereda

One of Barcelona’s romantic meeting points. With its dim lights and carefully selected music, it offers the perfect atmosphere for special evenings. It stands out with its fusion tapas menu and exquisite wine list. Grab a table on the terrace as the sun sets.

Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 155, L’Eixample, 08011 Barcelona
Instagram: @veredabar

Bar But

An intimate tapas spot where neighborhood culture thrives. Famous for its homemade croquettes and house-made sangria. Bar But, a favorite among local families and neighborhood residents, offers a special experience away from tourist crowds. Be sure to try the patatas bravas, one of the best in the city.

Address: Carrer de Bonavista, 8, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona
Website: barbut.es

Betlem

A place that offers wine and tapas in the heart of the city, with a view of Plaça de Catalunya. Open since the 1940s, the bar combines classic Catalan cuisine with modern touches. Come in the evening and enjoy local wines while watching the sunset.

Address: Carrer de Girona, 70, L’Eixample, 08009 Barcelona
Website: betlem.es

Vivo Tapas

A luxury tapas restaurant for those seeking a high-end dining experience. Chef Jose Martinez’s creative menu combines the traditional tapas concept with haute cuisine techniques. Advance reservation is essential for the tasting menu.

Address: Carrer del Rosselló, 255, Eixample, 08008 Barcelona
Website: vivotapas.com

Bubar

One of the hidden treasures of the El Born region. The place, which draws attention with its vintage decoration and homemade vermouth, is ambitious about local wines and classic tapas such as patatas bravas. Try the vermouth with homemade olives.

Address: Carrer de Wellington, 52, Sant Martí, 08005 Barcelona
Instagram: @bubarbarcelona

Bar del Pla

Bar del Pla, one of the classics of the Born neighborhood, has been serving the finest examples of traditional Catalan cuisine since 2008. Operating in a historic building, the venue stands out with its rustic atmosphere and constantly changing daily menu. Sit at the counter and watch the chefs prepare the food.

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 2, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Website: bardelpla.cat

Touristy but Delicious Tapas Bars

Because we all love a crowd. Yes, it’s packed with tourists, but there’s a reason these places are so busy — amazing food that will temporarily make you forget how long you’ve been waiting in line.

Vinitus

Portions are generous, flavors are on point, and the menu never disappoints. Perfect for people watching while sipping a glass of wine and enjoying tapas. Vinitus is a lively tapas bar where portions are as generous as the waiters’ smiles. With its energetic atmosphere, it’s perfect for a fun meal with friends or family. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the waiters – they’re like wine experts in disguise.

Address: Carrer del Consell de Cent, 333, L’Eixample, 08007 Barcelona
Website: laflautagroup.com

Cerveseria Catalana

A tapas institution meets Instagram heaven. Be prepared to wait, but it’s definitely worth it. They’ve been serving fantastic tapas since 1968 and have mastered the craft. The menu is a tapas lover’s dream – everything from perfectly grilled chorizo to garlic shrimp so juicy you’ll be ordering a second (or third) portion. This is Barcelona, waiting is part of the experience. Order a beer while you’re in line.

Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 236, L’Eixample, 08008 Barcelona
Website: laflautagroup.com

El Xampanyet

Homemade cava, a rustic atmosphere and tapas that scream “Catalonia!” You might rub elbows with strangers at communal tables, but hey, that’s part of the fun. Practice your best “una copa de cava, por favor” before you go in. They love it.

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 22, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Instagram: @el_xampanyet

Paradise for Seafood Lovers

If you love the ocean on your plate, these places will steal your heart (and stomach).

Lluritu

Grilled fish, swordfish, and the freshest seafood you’ll find outside the Mediterranean. Skip lunch; you’ll want to try everything here.

Address: Carrer del Torrent de les Flors, 71, Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona
Website: lluritu.com

La Plata

They do four things. And they do them very well. Order the fried anchovies and thank me later. Stand by the bar and eat like the locals.

Address: Carrer de la Mercè, 28, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Website: barlaplata.com

International Tapas: Because Barcelona Loves Fusion

Barcelona is a city that loves innovation, and these venues put an international spin on the traditional tapas table.

Silan

This Middle Eastern-inspired tapas bar brings traditional Levantine flavors to the heart of Barcelona. The baba ganoush has a smoky and velvety taste, while the falafel is crispy on the outside and perfectly soft inside. Beautifully chargrilled eggplants pair wonderfully with tahini sauce and fresh herb dips. Make sure to order extra pita bread – you’ll want plenty of bread for the amazing dips that come with every dish.

Address: Carrer d’Enric Granados, 38, L’Eixample, 08008 Barcelona
Instagram: @silan_bcn

Soma

A fusion of Asian and Spanish cuisine, where the boundaries of culinary traditions blur a bit. Burrata with seasonal tomatoes may seem like a standard dish, but it’s NOT, you should definitely try it. And also the shrimp carpaccio, please 🙂 Gather a group and share a few different plates. This way you get a chance to taste a little bit of everything and enjoy all the flavors.

Address: Carrer de Provença, 179, L’Eixample, 08036 Barcelona
Website: soma-restaurant.com

Vegan Delicacies: Who Says Plants Don’t Belong on the Tapas Table?

Barcelona is increasingly turning to plant-based cuisine, and these vegan tapas spots are proof that plants can take center stage too.

Sésamo

Their tahini roasted cauliflower is absolutely stunning – crispy, smoky and perfectly balanced with the rich tahini sauce. Save room for dessert – the vegan chocolate mousse is a game-changer.

Address: Carrer de Sant Antoni Abat, 52, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Instagram: @sesamobcn

Rasoterra

Farm-to-table is a sustainable experience that’s as delicious as it is delicious. If locally sourced, beautifully presented plant-based tapas are what you’re after, Rasoterra is for you. Opt for the tasting menu – it’s the ultimate veggie adventure.

Address: Carrer del Palau, 5, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Website: rasoterra.cat

Mikan

A modern tapas bar that comes alive with DJ performances on weekends. Offering Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, the venue is especially popular for live music and delicious cocktails on Saturday nights. Make your reservation at least a week in advance, especially for DJ nights.

Address: Carrer d’Aribau, 158, L’Eixample, 08036 Barcelona
Website: mikanbarcelona.com

My Favorite Tapas Bars

Bocata

It’s not fancy but it’s delicious – and locals love it for its down-to-earth vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer, sit back and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. In the mornings, they serve hearty breakfasts, delicious sandwiches and juicy Spanish omelettes. For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy options like artichokes with Hollandaise sauce or chickpeas with black pudding and calamari. Definitely take your time – this is a place to enjoy your meal and the moment.

Address: Travessera de Gràcia, 86, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08006 Barcelona
Website: barbocata.com

Gresca

A friendly neighborhood spot with a timeless vibe, you can watch the chefs at work while sampling grilled eggplant, codfish croquettes, and some of the city’s best anchovies. They offer two reasonably priced tasting menus in the main restaurant, or you can go a la carte. If you’re looking for something special, the mushroom ‘bikini’ is a must-try.

Address: Carrer de Provença, 230, L’Eixample, 08036 Barcelona
Website: gresca.rest

One last note: I would like to share a few tips for experiencing Barcelona’s tapas culture at its best. People usually go out for dinner after 9:00 PM here, but the best time to enjoy tapas is between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. During these hours, you can find a seat more comfortably and experience the real Barcelona atmosphere. Reservations are required at popular venues, but some traditional tapas bars only accept customers who come in the door – expect to wait a bit, it’s part of the experience anyway. Most importantly, don’t rush – tapas culture is not just about food, it’s also about conversation and sharing.

If you want to learn more about Catalan cuisine, I recommend the article What to Eat in Barcelona?.

Most of the tapas bars I shared in this article were recommended to me by Ezgi. Many thanks to her for guiding me to discover the best flavors of Barcelona!