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The 7 Tapas Bars You Must Try when in Barcelona

The 7 Tapas Bars You Must Try when in Barcelona

If you have been googling on what to eat in Barcelona, chances are you’ve probably seen the word tapas pop up every single time. We’re guessing that you already have a good inkling of what tapas is but do you know where exactly to find the best tapas bars in Barcelona? Be it standing bars, market bars or where to get free tapas– we’ve got you covered.

Here is our guide on where to get the best tapas when in Barcelona:

If you are looking for a quick bite before dinner, head over to Quimet i Quimet

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Quimet i Quimet is a bustling little tapas bar has only two small tables and no seats. Lined from floor to ceiling with an impressive array of wines and spirits, you’ll be considered lucky if you snag a spot at this highly popular standing-only bar.

What to Eat: Choose from an exciting array of Montaditos (tapas on a slice of bread) served with delectable combinations such as salmon with truffled honey and tuna belly with creamy sea urchin.

What to Drink: Don’t leave without trying the iconic Quimet i Quimet Belgian beer that has been brewed to perfection.

Budget: Tapas €3-10

Address: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes 25

Opening Hours: Noon to 4pm and 7pm to 10.30pm during the weekdays and only from noon to 4pm on Saturdays. Closed in August.

If you’re looking to hang out with locals, head over to La Cova Fumada

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

 

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Termed as Barcelona’s beloved gastronomic icon, La Cova Fumada has been around since 1944 serving up classic Catalan favourites.

What to Eat: The legendary bombas (pork-filled, crumbed mashed potato balls that are deep fried) served with either mild garlic mayonnaise or a spicier cayenne pepper sauce. Don’t forget to check out the blackboard menu that offers fresh grilled seafood as well.

What to Drink: Enjoy a lovely glass of Cava de sangria while munching on these Catalan classics.

Budget:Tapas €4-8

Address: Carrer del Baluard 56

Opening Hours: 9am-3.20pm on Mondays to Wednesdays, 9am-3.20pm and 6-8.15pm on Thursdays and Friday, 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you are looking for a cozy lunch spot, head over to Morryssom

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One of the best picks for tapas in the city, Morryssom is a popular lunch spot amongst the locals with pavement tables to allow you to bask under the Mediterranean Sun while sharing tales of your travel escapades.

What to Eat: They serve a reliably good range of tapas like gambas rebozadas (lightly-battered prawns) but you have to try their richly seasoned paella with butifarra (spiced Catalan sausage) or goat-cheese vegetarian paella.

What to Drink: Keep cool this summer with a refreshing glass of Sangria.

Budget: Tapas €2-12

Address: Carrer de Girona 162

Opening Hours: 7.30am to 1am from Mondays to Saturdays

If you are craving supper, head over to Elisabets

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Elisabets is a quaint restaurant that is popular for its authentic and generous servings of homemade tapas and sandwiches. Step into this lively and rambunctious place and find yourself lost in conversation with local students about everything under the sun at any time of the day.

What to Eat: Try the morcilla amb confitada de cebollas (blood sausage with braised onions), it’s sweeter than it sounds!

What to Drink: Without a doubt, a jug of beer!

Budget: tapas €1.20- 10

Address: Carrer d’Elisabets 2-4

Opening Hours: 8am to 11.30pm from Mondays to Saturdays, with the exception of Fridays (8am to 1.30am)

If you are on a budget, head over to Gata Mala

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Gata Mala is one of the very few tapas bar in Barcelona that remains true to tradition by serving free tapas with every drink. Packed with locals, this no-frills bar is a great place to have a drink and chill with your travelling buddies.

What to Eat: For every two beers you order, you’ll be served a generous portion of ensaladilla rusa (mayonnaise potato salad with chicken, eggs and tuna).

What to Drink: Feeling adventurous? Try the gin and tonics made with cucumbers and peppers- it’s sure to give you a ‘buzz’.

Budget: Drinks under €10

Address: Carrer de Rabassa 37

Opening Hours: 6.30pm to 1.30am from Tuesdays to Saturdays

If you are visiting La Boqueria, head over to Bar Pinoxto

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Sworn by tourists and even some locals as the best Tapas bar in all of Barcelona, Bar Pinotxo is a 14-seater bar in the famous La Boqueria. With the ever-so-charming Juanito Bayen, owner and face the bar, serving you up classic tapas dishes, you will surely be in for a treat at this coveted bar.

What to Eat: From their classic chickpeas and pine nuts to their famous xuxos, Bar Pinotxo will surely have something you’ll love, both sweet and savoury.

What to Drink: Settle down at this well-loved tapas bar with a glass of sangria or cava, if not both.

Budget: tapas and mains €8-17

Address: Mercat de la Boqueria

Opening Hours: 6am to 4pm from Mondays to Saturdays

If you are a seafood connoisseur, head over to Cal Pep

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There’s no way you can get into the legendary seafood restaurant without queuing- be prepared to queue for more than 30 minutes. What’s there not to love when there is fresh seafood and friendly service available at Cal Pep?

What to Eat: The pièce de résistance of this popular seafood tapas is none other than the stellar Seafood Platter that includes the much raved about deep-fried Calamari.

What to Drink: White wine

Budget: tapas €5-15

Address: Plaça de les Olles 8

Opening Hours: 7.30pm to 11.30pm on Mondays, 1-3.45pm & 7.30-11.30pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Closed on the  last 3 weeks of August.

 

Can't get enough of tapas? Join our lovely BonAppetour hosts like Nani for a tapas making class!

 

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Top Five Must-Eats in Barcelona

Top Five Must-Eats in Barcelona

A culinary hub like Barcelona is truly any foodie’s paradise. With such a rich culture embedded into the city and each corner you pass promising a gastronomic experience like no other, the options of food to choose from is truly endless! Not all of us are lucky enough to live in Barcelona, so here are the top five must eat dishes that you must try during your holiday in this beautiful city.  

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1. Tapas

Definitely not one to be missed, Tapas sits on the top of our list as what any traveler must try during their stay in Barcelona. Traditionally served as a snack along with drinks, these small savory dishes can include things like chopitos (fried baby squid) and patatas bravas (diced and fried white potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and/or allioli). There is strong "Tapas culture" in Barcelona, where friends chat while eating Tapas and having a drink or two. It is also a way that people make friends, through sharing Tapas at bars and restaurants. Want to make your trip even more exciting? Join our BonAppetour Host, Nani, and learn how to make your very own Tapas!

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2. Paella

The quintessential Spanish dish as some would call it. The paella is a Spanish rice dish that is made with a mixture of different herbs, vegetables, and meats like chicken, seafood and even rabbit. Even though the paella did not originate from this city, there is still no excuse for you not to try the Spanish staple while you are in Barcelona. Better yet, why not try making your own with our BonAppetour host, David? Learn how to make this humble dish yourself from a local, and get true insights into the city through this unique Paella making workshop in the heart of Barcelona! 

[BARCELONA-BEST-PAELLA https://www.bonappetour.com/david-rg/best-paella-cooking-class-in-barcelona-delicious-hands-on-cooking-experience]

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3. Cava

The Spanish version of sparkling wine, that is made by the same method as champagne, Cava is a drink that is a must try in Barcelona. Made with grapes grown in the Catalonia region, this drink is just as delicious as champagne, but without the exorbitant price tag. Cava can be enjoyed on any occasion, from an after work drink to birthday celebrations and even weddings!

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4. Canelons

Canelons are certainly a dish that is not to be missed while you are in Barcelona either. It is made by rolling up minced meat in rectangular pasta sheets, covered in a white roux (bechamel) sauce and cheese. This is savory dish is a classic in Catalan cuisine that can be easily found in restaurants throughout Barcelona. Simple, yet absolutely delicious, Catalan canelons are certainly not to be missed in Barcelona.
 

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5. Crema Catalana

A very traditional dessert to the region, the Crema Catalana is very similar to the Creme Brulee. With an added citrus zest and cinnamon in its custard (which unlike the Creme Brulee, is predominantly vanilla in flavor), comes together to produce a tangy yet sweet treat. This is a dessert that definitely cannot be missed for all the sweet tooths out there who will surely enjoy this creamy and rich treat.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of what you should try during your stay in Barcelona. With a reputation as one of Europe’s biggest gourmet food hubs, the options of what to eat here are truly endless. Did we miss out on any dish on this list? Do let us know what are some dishes that you think are must eats in Barcelona in the comments below!

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Vegetarian Dining in Barcelona

Vegetarian Dining in Barcelona

Seafood and meat are staples in Catalan cuisine. Given Barcelona's proximity to the sea, it is no surprise that the Catalan capital is a seafood haven. However, this does not mean non-meat eaters are faced with limited dining options in Barcelona. With a growing number of vegetarians and vegans in the city, there is a rise in the number of eateries that can accommodate meat-free diets – just perfect for veggie-loving travellers:

1. Juicy Jones

This hip vegan eatery is popular among the locals for its fresh juices and affordable brunch options. The colourful interiors of Juicy Jones is reflective of the food and beverages that it offers, and contributes to the eatery's funky yet relaxed atmosphere. Who says a plant-based diet is dull? Certainly not at this eatery. 

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

 

2. My Pillow Cafe 

Fast food can be vegetarian and healthy, as long as fresh, quality ingredients are used its preparation. My Pillow Cafe does just that, offering diners with a variety of vegetarian fare in a fast food setting. You will find a wide selection of dishes such as tapas, burgers, dumplings, wraps, noodles, soup and fries at affordable prices. Vegan and gluten-free items are also available here. 

3. Santoni Cafeteria

Santoni Cafeteria may not have an entirely vegetarian or vegan menu, but it can certainly accommodate non-meat eaters. This family-run eatery offers a separate vegan menu, and is well loved for its homemade sandwiches, pizzas, salads and pastries. Meat options are also served, making this a convenient dining spot for vegetarians with meat-loving travel companions. Whatever your dietary preferences are, the highly popular chocolate croissant is one treat you cannot miss. 

4. Cafe Camelia

This casual vegetarian cafe sits close to Park Guell, one of Gaudi's most notable works in Barcelona. Cafe Camelia draws a crowd of locals who frequent the cafe for brunch or an afternoon coffee break, and features a menu with vegan and vegetarian options. A good selection of desserts makes this an ideal place for vacation makers in the vicinity looking for a spot to indulge in sweet treats. 

5. Gaudi Bakery

You will find an array of vegan and gluten-free items on the vegetarian-friendly menu at Gaudi BakeryDespite the eatery's proximity to La Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona's major tourist attractions, the dishes here are reasonably priced. Fond favourites among patrons include the desserts, sandwiches, salads and savoury pancakes. 

6. Home-dining Experience

Fancy a feast of paella? Or, perhaps a spread of scrumptious tapas dishes? Dine with Yves, and he will whip up a storm of Spanish culinary delights that will whet your appetite. Cooking lessons are included in the dining experience, which means that you will get to enjoy an authentic taste of Spain long after your travels. 

The menu can be customised to suit different dietary preferences. Please state any dietary restrictions during your booking process.

 

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