No matter where you choose to rent a villa in Barcelona, you’ll be within walking distance of a great tapas restaurant! The city has plenty of great places that serve up small plates of classic Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas, calamares, and croquetas. However there is one particular location in Barcelona that is especially known for its tapas offerings: the neighbourhood of El Born in Ciutat Vella (the old city). Join us as we take a look at some of the highlights of an El Born tapas crawl!

Stop 1: Tapeo

Begin your El Born tapas crawl at Tapeo. Run by husband-and-wife team Daniel Rueda and Natalia Ferran, the menu features modern, creative tapas that you won’t find anywhere else, and it’s the perfect way to begin your evening. How about meatballs with cuttlefish, wasabi-topped salmon, or a burger with mushroom mayo?

Stop 2: El Xampanyet

El Xampanyet should be your second stop on your El Born tapas crawl for two reasons: first, it’s right across the road from Tapeo, and second this traditional watering hole is extremely popular and it gets busy, so arriving early is essential. Authenticity is key here and you won’t find any ‘crazy’ menu items, just good old-fashioned Spanish tortillas and plenty of chorizo. While the tapas is delicious, many people flock here for the homemade cava!

Stop 3: Cal Pep

A short walk through El Born will bring you to Cal Pep, a Mediterranean-style restaurant famous for its fresh seafood offerings. With menu items changing depending on the ‘catch of the day’, there’s always something different to sample here, and there’s usually more than 70 dishes available, including tapas, meats, fish, vegetables, soups, and salads.

Stop 4: Ten’s Tapas OR Vinya del Senyor

Now it’s time to make a decision: Either head toward Barcelona Zoo and you can visit Ten’s Tapas, run by renowned chef Jordi Cruz, or head toward Port Vell and stop in at Vinya del Senyor, a wine-themed tapas restaurant that commands spectacular views of the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar from the outdoor patio. If you enjoy people-watching, then this is a true Barcelona hotspot.