Best Tapas in Barcelona

Best Tapas in Barcelona

Looking for the best tapas of Barcelona? Barcelona is a tapas paradise, with everything from hidden Gothic Quarter bars to lively pintxo streets full of bold flavors. Find out about the best tapas of Barcelona.

Discover Tapas Street in Poble Sec: Carrer de Blai

Poble Sec is a relaxed, residential neighborhood at the foot of Montjuïc known for its artsy vibe and local energy. It’s here that you’ll find one of the city’s most famous streets for pintxos and casual tapas hopping.

If there’s a true tapas street Barcelona locals and visitors both love, it’s Carrer de Blai in Poble Sec. Nicknamed “pintxo street,” this buzzing avenue is lined with tiny bars offering pintxos starting from just €1—whether artfully arranged plates at Blai 9 or classic combos at La Tasqueta de Blai and La Esquinita de Blai. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed, affordable, and tasty crawl.

Iconic Classics in the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) is Barcelona’s medieval heart—a maze of cobbled streets, historic architecture, and centuries-old bars. This area is home to some of the most authentic and traditional tapas experiences in the city.

La Plata. This tiny, time-capsule bar has been serving just four traditional tapas—anchovies, sausage, tomato salad—since 1945. Sit shoulder-to-shoulder with locals, order a glass of wine, and soak in its authentic ambiance. Often hailed as one of the best tapas Gothic Quarter Barcelona has to offer.

La Vinateria del Call. Hidden away in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, this wine-focused gem features delectable classics like veal meatballs and spicy stuffed mussels, alongside an excellent vegetarian selection.

Bodega Biarritz. Rustic, intimate, and cozy—this small bodega offers a “surprise menu for two” rooted in Catalan tradition. Pair it with a smooth Rioja for an authentic experience in the heart of the old town.

Born & El Raval: Creative & Casual Vibes

El Born and El Raval sit on either side of the old city center. El Born is trendy, artistic, and packed with independent eateries, while El Raval blends gritty charm with cultural flair. Both neighborhoods offer inventive takes on tapas and a vibrant night scene.

El Xampanyet. An iconic spot in El Born, steps from the Picasso Museum, where locals and tourists alike gather for house cava, anchovies, tortilla, and vintage vibes. It’s long been considered among the best tapas Barcelona has to offer.

Cal Pep. Expect a line forming before this beloved bar opens—but it’s worth the wait. Sit at the bar and let the staff guide you through expertly prepared tapas, representing the pinnacle of great tapas Barcelona.

Bar del Pla. Nearby in El Born, this has a relaxed atmosphere with consistently fresh, seasonal dishes—don’t miss the cheese-topped canelón de rustido or creative specials.

Bar Cañete. Just off La Rambla in El Raval, Bar Cañete serves elevated Catalan classics and beautifully sourced seafood in a polished setting. A refined choice among the best tapas places in Barcelona.

Bar El Pollo. Also in El Raval, this casual bar is renowned for Basque-style pintxos and creative tortillas combining flavors like truffle or tuna.

Seaside Flavors in La Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is the city’s old fishing quarter, now known for its laid-back beach vibes, surf culture, and some of the freshest seafood in town. It’s a great area for classic tapas with a salty sea breeze.

La Cova Fumada. A rustic, family-run favorite tucked away near the beach, famous for inventing the “bomba” (a deep-fried potato-meat ball). Don’t miss the calamari or sardines—it’s considered one of the best tapas Barcelona offers by locals.

Bar Jai-Ca. Also in Barceloneta, this seafood-centric hotspot is beloved by locals. Expect anchovies, fried fish bones, and more in a lively, unpretentious setting.

Elegant & Gourmet in Eixample

Eixample is a wide, modern district with grand avenues and upscale vibes. Known for its grid layout and Modernist architecture, it’s also home to some of Barcelona’s most stylish and innovative tapas restaurants.

Paco Meralgo. A refined “alta taberna” serving classic yet elevated tapas. Dishes like croquetas, zucchini flowers, and salmon tartare shine here—one of the top recommended tapas Barcelona spots.

Mont Bar. Michelin-star precision meets tapas in this stylish and inventive bar. Expect unusual ingredients like Wagyu beef and razor clams, plus conceptual presentations.

Bar Alegría. A beautiful restoration of a classic venue, mixing modern architecture with vintage ambiance. Try the famous Bikini sandwich—with Iberian ham, mozzarella, and truffle—alongside joyful vibes and periodic live music in L’Eixample.

Flamenco and Tapas in Barcelona

Looking for a night of flamenco and tapas Barcelona style? Head to Tablao Flamenco Cordobés on Las Ramblas. Established in 1970, it’s one of the most respected flamenco venues in the world, pairing passionate performances with excellent tapas in atmospheric surroundings.

Barcelona Tapas Paradise

Barcelona is a treasure trove of tapas delights—from the best tapas Barcelona street to gourmet bars and flamenco soirées. Whether you’re hunting for authentic locals’ favorites, curious culinary innovation, or a flamenco night out, the city offers memorable bites at every turn.