Tapas are generally a bit more expensive in Barcelona than in other parts of Spain (although it is possible to get free tapas in the city if you know where to look). In your quest to discover the cheapest tapas bars, the trick is to avoid the ones with a chic decor look or modern makeover. Or, indeed, any place with the word “cover” in its name. They are usually chain links and charge an arm and a leg when you can find the same dishes for half the price in small family-run restaurants.
Tune up hole-in-the-wall restaurants with grease-splattered tile walls and napkin-covered floors. Here’s how we do it in Barcelona: If you’re looking for cheap tapas bars, then roll up your sleeves and get ready to mess up.
La Jai-Ca
Several blocks from Passeig Joan de Borbò on Carrer Ginebra is one of the cheapest tapas offers in Barceloneta, La Jai-Ca. It specializes in fried cuttlefish, mussels gratin and other classic seafood soaked in olive oil. The atmosphere is loud, lively and drunk. If you are looking for the hustle and bustle of an authentic Catalan tapas, this is the place.
La Paradeta
In a cobbled alley in El Born, right next to Passeig Picasso, is La Paradeta, where you weigh whatever seafood you want and tell them how to cook it. The fish market style feel is accompanied by market prices and again a lively atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to raise your voice above the din, or you might be left behind in the fray!
Celtic Bar
On Calle Mercé, in the Gothic Quarter, you will find Bar Celta. It’s where you must go for all things Galician; Octopus and potatoes in olive oil and paprika (Galician octopus) is the specialty of the house. It is very cheap and very cheerful.
Wineries
La Xampanyeria, on Calle Reina Cristina, is perhaps the cheapest way to get drunk and fill your stomach in the entire city. It’s a small winery next to Port Vell serving greasy rolls filled with chorizo, blood sausage, ham, sausage, and other local favorites with absurdly inexpensive bottles of cava, spilling all over the floor amid the lush crowd.
There are literally hundreds of tapas in Barcelona, and these are our favorites, but feel free to explore the city and try something new. We have a list of the best restaurants in Barcelona here, and once you’re satisfied, you can check out the top 100 things to do in Barcelona. You can also book a tapas tasting tour that will take you all over the city.
