Barcelona’s more sophisticated tapas bar circuit is almost impossible to resist, but if you’re looking for a more casual approach, here’s a selection of more basic establishments where the fare is simpler, but just as tasty. The choice is yours!
TAPAS24 Diputació, 269
Tel. +34 93 488 09 77, WebsiteTapas24
Tapas24, by Carles Abellán, is the more “relaxed” version of the eatery in the Sant Pere neighbourhood. What’s on offer? The famous bikini of the house, an adaptation of the classic Iberian ham sandwich with cheese and truffle; mini-hamburgers made of foie gras and the mouth-watering bomba de la Barceloneta, a potato stuffed with meat and spicy sauce.
LA ESQUINICA Passeig de Fabra i Puig, 296
Tel. +34 933 582 519
The key to the success of La Esquinica are its patatas bravas, fried potatoes with spicy sauce – and its affordable prices. They don’t accept reservations, so go with your friends and plan for a nice chat while you wait to be served!
PSICOLABIS Rambla Catalunya, 27
Tel. +34 933 069 669
The décor Piscolabis is an interesting combination of vintage and modern, making the place cozy and welcoming, while the endless list of inviting choices makes deciding what to order a real challenge. Don’t pass up the tortilla de patatas, while enjoying the iconic position on the Rambla Cataluña with an icy cold beer in hand.
BAR CANALLA Major de Sarría 95
Tel. +34 93 205 88 06
Bar Canalla gives a wink to the popular culinary culture with a menu based around eggs and expertly-cooked vegetables, the artichokes are particularly noteworthy – but there also more rarefied options like oysters. The atmosphere is relaxed and the prices are fair at this eatery, which, while new, is already popular with customers of all ages.
ELS TRES PORQUETS Rambla de Poble Nou, 165
Tel. +34 93 300 87 50
The basic idea of the Els Tres Porquets is to offer a good tapeo and good-quality wines (many of which are French) at reasonable prices. There are also specialty cold cuts, porcini mushroom croquettes and small tasty fish, simply salted, from the Ebro Delta. The bread is always fresh and the espresso is authentic. Simple pleasures for this appetizing bar.
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