Barcelona may be famous for avant-garde gastronomy, but ask the city’s top chefs where they go on their days off, and you’ll often find them tucked into traditional bars, sipping vermouth and sharing small plates. Tapas—simple, flavorful, and rooted in local culture—remain a cornerstone of the Catalan dining experience. Here’s a look at some favorite tapas spots, as recommended by Barcelona’s most acclaimed chefs.
Jordi Artal (Cinc Sentits)
Michelin Stars: ★★
Cuisine: Modern Catalan tasting menus
Chef Jordi Artal, whose restaurant Cinc Sentits is known for elegant reinterpretations of Catalan flavors, has a deep appreciation for humble yet authentic tapas. His favorite spots reflect his love of quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and unpretentious settings:
- Gresca – Renowned for creative Catalan small plates and natural wines served in a lively open-kitchen setting within its dual fine-dining and casual bar spaces..
- Bar Mut – A cozy, old-school venue known for off-menu specialties and a superb wine list. It’s a chef’s favorite for seafood tapas and timeless dishes.
- Bodega Amposta – A local neighborhood haunt offering classic Catalan comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Ultramarinos Marín – Famed for its house-made conservas and nostalgic charm, this revamped bodega strikes a balance between past and present.
- Bodega Gol – A no-frills spot in the Sant Antoni that excels in honest, flavorful tapas at modest prices.