Introduction to Tapas Bars
If you are visiting Barcelona, you cannot miss the Gothic Quarter. Together known for broad streets, brave buildings, and an energetic gait, the restaurant quarter is also a paradise for food fans. Particularly, the tapas bars in the area are plentiful providing fantastic Spanish cuisine and local culture at your fingertips. In this guide, we will show you where to go and what to eat at the best tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter.
The Best Tapas Bars in the Gothic Quarter
1. El Xampanyet
If you’re in the Gothic Quarter, one of the most famous tapas bars in Barcelona is El Xampynet, don’t miss it! Over 80 years this family run tavern is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Catalan cuisine. Did not miss a try and the famous “bombas” : local specialty of oversized potato croquettes filled with minced meat and drenched in a spiced up sauce.
2. La Plata
La Plata is one of those old, no frills tapas bars; it’s been around since 1945. Part of its simplicity is in its charm, and they do have tapas here at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to order their pan con tomate (bread rubbed with fresh tomatoes, olive oil and salt) a traditional Catalan dish.
3. Bodega La Palma
Bodega La Palma is a treasure in the Gothic Quarters labyrinthine streets. The look is cozy and it serves tapas, a variety of traditional and inventive dishes like Peruvian style smoked cod fritters and grilled octopus. To ensure you’re getting the full Spanish wine experience, be sure to pair your tapas with one of their high quality Spanish wines.
4. Txirimiri
Txirimiri is an idealBasque place to sample the essence of the Basque cuisine right in the heart of Barcelona. Pintxos are a type of tapas bar, also bite sized snacks but served on a skewer. At the bar you can pick which pintxos you want such as marinated anchovies or stuffed peppers, but there is a wide variety to choose from. Drink it washed down with a glass of local cider or a refreshing Basque beer.
How to Enjoy the Tapas Bars in the Gothic Quarter.
1. Embrace the Local Culture
Barcelona tapas is all about socializing and having good food and company. Share a plate with your meal mates and enjoy conversations with other diners living the local culture. So don’t be afraid to ask the staff for their recommendations or how you can make the most out of your tapas experience.
2. Try a Variety of Tapas
And tapas are meant to be tried in small portions so that you can try a lot of flavors. Instead of ordering one giant dish, you can choose several different tapas dishes so you can taste what Spanish cuisine has to offer. Along with staples like patatas bravas (fryd poatoes with spicy sauce) and jamón ibérico (cured ham), you don’t want to miss out.
3. Timing Matters
During peak hours the Gothic Quarter’s tapas bars can be crowded. If you’d like a more casual dining experience consider having lunch at times other than the regular meal times. If you arrive early in the morning or late at night, you might luck out and find a seat, without the crowd.
4. Wander and Discover
The four tapas bars mentioned above are all really highly recommended, but the whole point of it is to find other gems you’ve not heard of. Winding through the streets of the Gothic Quarter you’ll find yourself roaming past locals favorites. There’s always something culinary you never know about just around the corner.
In Conclusion
Of all the tapas bars in the world, the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is absolute treasure. It’s everything from traditional taverns to cutting edge culinary hot spots, something for every taste bud. Therefore, go for a touch of local culture, taste and test a bunch of tapas and on a gastronomical experience unlike any other. They’ll thank your taste buds!
