Barcelona Tapas Xampanyet: where locals sip, snack and squeeze in
If you’re anywhere near the Gothic Quarter or El Born, remember this words: Barcelona Tapas Xampanyet. That’s the spot locals and foodies alike will tell you not to miss. And trust me — this is no secret. There aren’t many places like that close to this place, nor in town. You can see the line a block away and still it is a pleasure to keep returning.
The scene? Shoulder-to-shoulder. The sound? Loud spanish; louder english. Toasts, glasses clinking and dishes being served. The drink? House cava (don’t call it Champagne in Barcelona) served by the bottle or glass. The food? Ridiculously good tapas that hit every craving from salty anchovies to creamy croquetas.
Let’s break it down. Here’s how to do Xampanyet like a local.
What’s the deal with Bar Xampanyet Barcelona?
If you ask a local for a one night in Barcelona tapas bar, he might probably refer to you this jewel. It has been opened since 1929, and year after year it stays as one of the most iconic tapas bars in town — Although have the audience speaks in english, plenty of locals still crowd in for their cava fix and plates of tapas.
It’s small, loud, a standing-room only unless you’re lucky to score one of the few tables. And that’s the fun of it — a high-energy spot where cava keeps flowing and plates keep landing on your corner of the bar.
The house cava (technically Xampanyet, hence the name) is the star — lightly sparkling, easy-drinking, dangerously refreshing. Pair that with anchovies, olives, jamón, and you’ve got yourself an afternoon well spent.
How to order at Barcelona Tapas Bar Xampanyet
Step 1: Get in
First things first — you’ll probably have to wait. Don’t stress. The turnover is quick, and the staff are pros at packing the place without making it miserable. Once inside, claim a spot at the bar or grab any inch of table space you can find..
Step 2: Drinks
Start with a glass (or bottle) of their signature cava — it’s why you’re here. You’ll hear people calling it champagne Barcelona tapas, but again: local cava, not Champagne. Affordable, crisp, and perfectly suited to cutting through all those rich tapas.
Step 3: Tapas
Now comes the good part. The menu isn’t massive, but everything hits. Popular orders include:
- Anchovies — absolute must. Salty, oily perfection.
- Olives and pickles — to balance out your sips of cava.
- Iberian ham and chorizo — top quality, sliced fresh.
- Croquetas — creamy, rich, and usually devoured in seconds.
- Codfish with romesco — a local favorite.
- Tuna belly — delicate and deeply flavorful.
Don’t be shy — ask the bartenders what’s best today. They’ll steer you right.
Step 4: Stay or bounce
Xampanyet is perfect for an hour of casual eating and drinking — then move on. It’s a Barcelona tapas bar Xampanyet tradition to do a mini-crawl after: hit a few other spots in El Born or nearby Gothic Quarter for a full afternoon of grazing.
Why locals love it (and keep coming back)
Look, Bar Xampanyet Barcelona isn’t the only good tapas bar in the city. Far from it. But it nails that magic combo: history, energy, quality, and a signature drink that makes it stand out.
You’re elbow-to-elbow with locals and travelers, there’s no pretension, and the food and drink are honestly priced for what you get. It’s a great reset if you’ve been hitting too many “modern” tapas spots — this is old-school, fast-paced Barcelona eating at its best.
Pro tip: go early, go off-peak, or embrace the wait. And yes, they take cards now (but cash is still faster).
Other spots to hit after Xampanyet
If you’re still hungry (or thirsty) after, here’s where locals usually drift next:
- Nearby cava bars with more seating and full menus
- Small vermuterías for house-made vermut and tins of seafood
- Late-night spots for fried anchovies and grilled squid
- And for the real enthusiasts: yes, we sometimes even wander up to Gracia after, because tapas in Gracia Barcelona offers a different, more laid-back scene perfect for capping the night
And for those curious: there are mouthwatering tapas in Gracia Barcelona that are must do. But fun fact: many of the cured meats and seafood tins you’ll find at Xampanyet come from that same Mediterranean tradition. Coastal vibes unite us.
Final word: Barcelona Tapas Xampanyet is a must
So, is Barcelona Tapas Xampanyet touristy? Sure — if by “touristy” you mean “one of those places everyone knows because it’s genuinely good.” But it still has a local heart and a buzzing, irresistible energy.
The cava’s cold, the tapas are on point, and there’s nothing better than standing at that bar, glass in hand, wondering which plate to order next.
Pro tip from locals: Xampanyet is a move on weekdays, before the weekend tourist crush. But hey, even if it’s packed, grab that glass and enjoy the chaos — that’s part of the charm.
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