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Foodie finds: Barcelona’s 5 best tapas spots for an authentic bite

The Mediterranean • Eat & drink • Foodie finds: Barcelona’s 5 best tapas spots for an authentic bite

Bite into Barcelona: the city’s top tapas spots

Barcelona is a city that lives and breathes through its food and nowhere is that more evident than in its legendary tapas bars. These eateries are ingrained in the Catalan way of life and there is no better way to experience Barcelona than by visiting these unique dining spots. The clatter of plates, the hum of conversation and the sizzle from an open kitchen all form part of the experience. But not all tapas bars are created equal. While some lean into their century-old roots, others push the boundaries of what these small plates can be. We’ve handpicked a few of the very best Barcelona has on offer, some of our favourite spots and some iconic tapas bars that would be a sin to miss.

Top photography courtesy of Bar Alegría

Bar Alegría

Established in 1899, Bar Alegría stands as one of Barcelona’s oldest tapas spots. This historic spot has been given a fresh new life thanks to Tomás Abellán. The venue beautifully merges modern architecture with a timeless traditional ambience. Inside original ceramic tiles, vintage light fixtures and period photographs evoke a sense of history. The lively chatter of dinners, often enhanced by live music, creates an atmosphere that lives up to its name – Alegría meaning joy in Spanish. You have to try the renowned Bikini de mi padre, a delectable sandwich of Iberian ham, mozzarella and truffle, paying homage to Carles Abellán’s original creation.

Bar Alegría
Carrer del Comte Borrell 133
L'Eixample
Barcelona
Spain

Photography courtesy of Bar Alegría

Denassus

The name Denassus is a playful nod to the Catalan expression de nassus, meaning something exceptional. And exceptional tapas is what you will find at Denassus. Founded by sommeliers Sergi Ruiz and Alejo Mailan, this gastro bar presents a curated selection of natural wines paired with inventive tapas that will delight your taste buds. The interior features a striking mural of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, setting the tone for the dining journey that awaits. Among the standout dishes are the perfectly executed patatas bravas, which deliver a spicy kick balanced by a cool, garlicky aioli and grilled leeks delicately marinated with citrus and agave.

Denassus
Carrer de Blai 53
Sants-Montjuïc
Barcelona
Spain

Photography courtesy of Denassus

Tapeo

The moment you step inside Tapeo, you’re met with a warm and intimate atmosphere with dim lighting, exposed brick walls and an open kitchen that fills the air with the intoxicating aroma of sizzling garlic and caramelized onions. The design features wooden accents, leather booths and sleek metal details giving it a stylish edge, while the long, narrow bar lined with high stools is the ideal spot for a casual bite, sharing plates with friends or chatting with the chefs as they work their magic. Dishes we highly recommend include the Canelón de rabo de toro, a succulent oxtail cannelloni that melts in the mouth and the Pulpo a la brasa, grilled octopus served with a smoky paprika-infused sauce.

Tapeo
Carrer de Montcada 29
Ciutat Vella
Barcelona
Spain

Photography courtesy of Tapeo

El Maravillas

El Maravillas lives up to its name, which translates to The Wonders. This cosy tapas bar oozes bohemian charm, featuring quirky art, exposed wooden beams, vintage posters and intimate lighting that set the stage for an exceptional tapas and cocktail experience. The menu showcases a mix of traditional Spanish tapas and flavours from around the world, reflecting the multicultural spirit of Barcelona. Some of our favourite dishes include the empordà duck sam with hoisin sauce and peanuts, the sea bass and mango ceviche with prawns and some cheesecake with quince wine to end off the meal. Don’t forget to try a few of their cocktails – they are as amazing as they are aesthetically pleasing.

El Maravillas
Plaça de la Concòrdia 15
Les Corts
Barcelona
Spain

Photography courtesy of El Maravillas

El Puestu

El Puestu is a small but beloved tapas bar serving exceptional traditional Catalan tapas. While it doesn’t have the name recognition of some of the city’s more famous spots, this little hidden gem is a local favourite for a reason. The space is compact with only a few high-top tables and bar seating, with simple and functional décor – it really is a charming hole-in-a-wall tapas spot with a laid-back ambience. The signature dishes to try here include the Carxofa – artichokes with poached egg and Maldonado Iberian bacon veil and the Arrós – paella with Catalan sausage and shrimp.