If you’re looking for a mean drink in the city, odds are you’ll have difficulties choosing where out of the many cocktail bars in Barcelona!

The Barcelona cocktail scene is one that has grown substantially in recent years. However, mixologists and gin-tonics weren’t always the norm! Nowadays anything from rustic taverns to swanky lounges are getting a piece of the action. Cocktails are a full-fledged trend in the Catalan capital! Furthermore, nobody is complaining. Check out a brief selection of what are, in our opinion, some of the best cocktail bars in Barcelona.

Dry Martini

Opened in 1978 by the one and only Javier de las Muelas, many would argue that Dry Martini was the trend-setter in the Barcelona cocktail scene. This internationally recognized cocktail bar is all about classic style. From the red ties and white jackets of the waiters to the stellar house specialty, which is none other than a dry martini. And of course, expect to see some choreography behind the bar—that’s what they’re known for.

Address: Carrer Aribau, 162

Negroni

On a hopping strip of nightlife in the Raval district, Negroni is a local favorite. Its classic-meets-contemporary vibe and chill atmosphere oozes cool. There is no menu, though you can trust the mixologist to customize a drink perfect to your taste buds.

Address: Joaquin Costa, 46

Torre Rosa

If you’re wondering where to enjoy a cocktail in that perfect, magical setting that you daydream about when thinking of Barcelona, you have got to make the trip out to Torre Rosa. It is an old house in the quaint little neighborhood of Sant Andreu. This famous spot once belonged to an Americano (a term used for Catalans who went to the Americas and returned wealthy men). The building houses an enormous bar and terrace. It is truly a time warp and reminiscent of colonial times with its wide selection of rums and memorable mojitos.

Address: Carrer Francesc Tàrrega, 22

Ginger

Barcelona is an enigmatic city. Furthermore, much of the mystery can be found lurking behind a cocktail bar during the late hours of the night. Ginger, with its plush leather seats and classic wooden tables, is dark, sultry and everything you’ll need to truly experience the sexy side of Barcelona. Find it tucked away on a small street of the Gothic Quarter.

Address: Carrer de la Palma de Santa Just, 1

Elephanta

Gintonic, has become more or less a religion in Spain. And of course, Elephanta is also a follower. Though tiny in size, this bar in the Gracia boasts over 40 different types of international gins, plus 20 different ingredients and a changing seasonal menu to ensure only the best gin & tonics around. Intimate and cozy, the bar also supports the local art scene by hosting frequent expositions on its walls.

Address: Torrent d’en Vidalet, 37

Boadas

The oldest cocktail bar in Barcelona can be found on an unassuming corner of Las Ramblas. Though it most definitely falls on the tourist track, Boadas deserves its status all the same. From the waiters clad in tuxedos to the walls decorated with charming paintings. It oozes a rustic, classy feel. Boada is definitely worth visiting as one of the most classic cocktail bars in Barcelona.

Address: Carrer Tallers, 1

Update notice: This blog post was updated on January 24, 2018.