Best Tapas in Barcelona with Kids: how to enjoy a proper tapas crawl as a family
While tapas might sound like an adults-only, asking for the Best tapas in Barcelona with kids is equally fair.
In fact, tapas culture is one of the most family-friendly ways to eat in this city. The food comes fast, it’s shareable, and there’s always something even picky eaters will love. The key? Knowing where to go.
Some spots are more kid-friendly than others. If you’re looking for the best tapas bars in Barcelona where the whole family can feel welcome (and actually eat well), this guide will help
Why tapas with kids works so well
It’s casual, it’s quick, it’s flexible
The beauty of tapas is that there are no rules. You don’t need to sit through a three-course meal. You can order a few plates, see what the kids like, and move on if the vibe isn’t right.
Many of the best tapas in Barcelona with kids spots are casual neighborhood bars, where no one will blink if your kids are a little loud or if they want to wander around the plaza while you finish your vermut.
What makes a tapas bar kid-friendly?
Space matters
Some of the best tapas bar Barcelona spots are tiny holes in the wall — great for date night, not ideal with a stroller. If you’re coming with kids, look for places with:
- Outdoor seating (plazas are gold)
- Enough space between tables
- A casual, neighborhood vibe
Menu flexibility
Another tip: the best tapas in Barcelona with kids spots offer a good mix of safe bets (croquetas, patatas bravas) and things you want to eat too. A few kid-approved staples:
- Patatas bravas (ask for mild if needed)
- Croquetas (ham is usually a hit)
- Jamón ibérico or simple cheese plates
- Grilled chicken or pork skewers
- Bread with tomato (pa amb tomàquet) — always a winner
Where to find the best tapas in Barcelona with kids
Gràcia: plazas and relaxed bars
Gràcia is full of small plazas with terraces — perfect for families. Parents can enjoy a few plates and a drink while kids run around safely.
Some of the best tapas bars in Barcelona for families are tucked into this neighborhood. The vibe is relaxed, prices are fair, and locals often come here with kids.
El Born: mix of tradition and trend
El Born has a lot of casual best tapas bar Barcelona spots with outdoor seating. Many are on quieter side streets or around Passeig del Born, where there’s space for kids to move.
Bonus: some great ice cream spots nearby to end the meal on a sweet note.
Eixample: polished but kid-welcoming
Eixample is often overlooked, but it’s full of bigger best tapas bars in Barcelona with roomier interiors — and plenty of places that are used to families.
If you want somewhere where you can enjoy a proper glass of wine or cava with your tapas, this is a great choice.
How locals do tapas with kids
Keep it flexible
Locals with kids know: don’t over-plan. Hit one best tapas in Barcelona with kids spot, order a few things. If the kids are having fun, stay. If not, move to another plaza or bar.
Early is smart
While tapas culture usually runs late, families in Barcelona tend to eat earlier — around 7:30 or 8 PM — when bars are quieter and staff have more time.
Mix it up
Sometimes one parent takes the kids for a bit while the other enjoys a round at the bar. The plazas in Gràcia and El Born are ideal for this kind of tag-team tapas night.
How locals do it: the tapas craw
Locals don’t stay at one bar all night. A real night of best tapas in Barcelona old town means hopping from place to place.
Start with a vermut and a couple of plates at one spot. Move on for a glass of cava and something seafood-focused. End at a bodega with a killer ham selection.
The Old Town is ideal for this style — everything’s walkable and full of atmosphere. . Remember to get to know all the info you need to know in out tapas experience in Barcelona blog.
The Best: Do a Tapas Tour in Barcelona with kids
Don’t believe the myth that tapas are only for adults. Don’t worry, it’s one of the best ways to eat out as a family. The best part is you can enjoy a historical, fun, and delicious tour with kids. We’re experts at creating the best tapas tour of Barcelona, and your kids will love it. They’ll be amazed by the delicious food and the incredible stories that accompany it. Every bite evokes culture and fun.
The best tapas in Barcelona with kids are served in traditional, informal places, where no one cares if your little ones are a little noisy or curious. Book today because tickets sell out fast, and enjoy one of the most authentic gastronomic experiences in the city with the whole family.
Good luck, and here’s to the next generation of tapas lovers!