Try some delicious free tapas in Barcelona
If you’re visiting Barcelona, trying some tapas in Catalonia is a must! Although tapas originated in Andalucía, these delicious small dishes have now become a popular aspect of gastronomical culture throughout Spain. Typical Catalan tapas include butifarra (a type of sausage) and pa amb tomàquet, (rustic bread with fresh tomato, olive oil and garlic). Today there are many variations of tapas, from the traditional olives and patatas bravas to a huge variety of seafood dishes – you’ll be sure to find something you love.
Did you know?
The word tapas comes from the verb tapar which means “to cover something.” As the story goes, Andalucían tavern keepers would cover their clients’ drinks with a piece of bread topped with ham, cheese, or whatever they had to hand to keep the flies away.
Where to find free tapas in Barcelona
Yes really, you can find free tapas in Barcelona! Tapas were originally served free of charge with drink orders in the South of Spain. Today in Catalonia, there are a few fantastic tapas bars where you can grab a cerveza or glass of cava and get a free tapa. So if you’re in Barcelona on a budget, check out these top 5 bars in Barcelona for free tapas:
1. Cal Chusco
Patatas bravas with a spicy tomato sauce
This gem of a restaurant lies in the heart of Barcelona’s seaside neighbourhood, Barceloneta. With every drink you purchase here, you’ll receive a free tapas dish, ranging from bombas to patatas bravas. They also offer bigger portions for those who just can’t get enough tapas.
Location: C/ de l’Almirall Aixada, 5. Metro station: Barceloneta (L4)
2. Pappa e Citti
Head to Pappa e Citti between 18:00-21:00 for free tapas with your drinks. It’s a great option if you’re looking to kick-start your evening. Drinks are priced between 1.80€ – 5€ and the food is delicious, so you really can’t go wrong. Located in the beautiful barrio of Gràcia, this little Italian joint is a must visit during your stay in Barcelona.
Location: C/ l’Encarnació, 38. Metro station: Joanic (L4)
3. Ambiente del Sur
A traditional Tortilla de Patatas
This delicious tapas bar in Barcelona, situated in the Eixample district, provides a taste of Andalucía in Barcelona. Ambiente del Sur is renowned for its famous tortilla de patatas and serves up a great paella on Tuesdays.
Location: C/ Viladomat, 85. Metro: Rocafort (L1) or Sant Antoni (L2)
4. Cervecería de Dues
Also located in the heart of Gràcia, you can enjoy a beer and tapa for as little as 1€ before 7pm.
Location: C/ Torrent de l’Olla, 89. Metro station: Fontana (L3)
5. Bar Mingus
Mingus Bar in Barrio Gótico
Hidden amongst a labyrinth of narrow streets in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, this place serves some of the best ensaladilla Rusa (a cold dish with diced boiled potatos, eggs, vegetables and plenty of mayonnaise )and meatballs in the city. Enjoy a free tapa as you sip down a cool house beer.
Location: C/ Ataülf, 6. Metro station: Liceu (L3)
So, there you have it! Whether you’re kicking back after a long day of sightseeing or getting ready to experience Barcelona’s nightlife, don’t miss out on some delicious free tapas during your time in this city.
Let us know in the comments below what you thought of these yummy tapas bars.
