Barcelona tapas bars & restaurants

The tradition of tapas in Spain goes back centuries. Tapas are small portions of food that are usually served with a drink in bars and restaurants. The origin of the word "tapa" comes from the habit of covering a glass of wine or beer with a slice of bread or cheese to prevent insects from entering the drink ;-)

Tapas became popular in Spain from the 19th century onwards, when people started to have snacks to accompany their drinks. Since then, tapas have become an important part of Spanish culture and are served in many establishments throughout the country.

Quality products and service: Best Barcelona tapas bars & restaurants

Barcelona is no exception to the tapas craze. Here, as in the rest of Spain, tapas can consist of a variety of dishes, including seafood, cold cuts, grilled vegetables, croquettes, tortillas, olives, anchovies, fried potatoes, etc.

In Barcelona, it is common to go out for tapas with friends or family, known as "tapeo". This tradition is particularly popular at the end of the day, when people go out for a drink and some tapas before dinner.

Not all tapas bars offer the same quality of product. We have selected for you our best addresses so far.

The different styles of tapas in Barcelona

In Barcelona, tapas come in two main styles: traditional and modern.

> Traditional tapas: These include classics such as patatas bravas, croquettes and tortillas. These dishes are often simple, prepared with local ingredients and served in authentic, sometimes old-fashioned bars.

> Modern tapas: Here, chefs reinvent the classics with creative touches, elegant presentations and unexpected ingredients. These tapas are often found in more sophisticated restaurants, offering a contemporary dining experience.

Origin of the word Tapas

The word ‘tapas’ comes from the Spanish ‘tapa’, meaning ‘lid’ or ‘cork’. The most common origin is that, in Andalusian taverns, a piece of bread with cheese or ham was placed on top of wine glasses to protect them from insects or dust. Over time, these edible corks became more elaborate, giving rise to the tapas tradition we know today.

What is tapeo in Barcelona

Tapeo’ is a Spanish tradition in which people go from bar to bar to enjoy a variety of tapas and drinks. A perfect aperitif, and therefore a perfect tapeo, starts at a traditional bar to enjoy classics like patatas bravas, then explores a modern bar for innovative tapas. All this while strolling through lively neighbourhoods such as El Born or El Raval.

  You can also find Best restaurants in Barcelona sorted by area, price, and top ten in our Barcelona Where to eat Guide.

The best tapas in Barcelona: