This blog post was originally posted on July 6, 2017, and was updated on April 17, 2019.
Any visitor to Spain will likely be familiar with the concept of tapas. These light bites served alongside a round of drinks are a staple in the Spanish way of life.
The origin of the term, though, is uncertain, with countless stories as to how and when the practice came about.
One such tale has it that under the monarchy of Fernando el Católico, it became obligatory for bar owners to serve food with alcohol as a response to an increasingly drunken workforce. As a result, patrons can now order a drink and be provided with a plate of something tasty. Though the practice may be fading in certain parts of the country, any visitor looking to eat tapas in Granada will quickly discover the tradition is still alive and kicking.
If you’re hungry after a day of sightseeing, the following bars all have a huge choice of dishes! So, let’s look over some of the top spots to eat tapas in Granada.
SEE ALSO: The Best 9 Tapas Bars in Granada
Bar los Diamantes
Opened in 1942 and still going strong, Bar Los Diamantes is a number one spot with the locals. If you’re looking for a taste of traditional granadino hospitality there really is nowhere better. This neighborhood bar has remained largely unchanged since the middle of the century. Specialists in seafood, it’s the staples of bacalao (salt cod) and calamari rings that have kept the locals coming back time and again for 75 years.
Sibarius
Worlds away from the rough-and-ready charm of the Diamantes, plush, trendy Sibarius serves a fusion of Spanish, Peruvian and Asian cuisine in contemporary surroundings. Their wine selection is splendid. Hungry? Then take a look at the extensive menu which blends influences from across three continents—the house specialty of huevos rotos (fried eggs broken over other ingredients), foie and goby fish is a true taste sensation.
Al Sur de Granada
It’s no secret that you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to tapas in Granada. Walking its streets can be overwhelming as they abound with similar bars and rival proprietors. In a quieter part of town, delicatessen Al Sur de Granada stands out as one of the city’s culinary gems. The beer-barrel tables serve as a relaxed space to sit and savor a selection of organic Spanish cheese and charcuterie. What’s more, being a deli means you can buy as much as you’d like to take home with you—as long as it will fit in your luggage!
Los Manueles
If you’ve walked through the city center of Granada, you may have spotted Los Manueles holding down its spot on Calle Reyes Católicos. Maybe you’ve even stopped in to try one of their legendary giant croquettes for yourself. If not, it’s time to make that happen. This local icon has been serving some of the tastiest tapas in Granada for more than 100 years, and has rightfully won over the hearts and tastebuds of generations of locals. Don’t leave town without experiencing it for yourself.
Bar Poë
In culinary terms, this bar is certainly the most unconventional on the list, and for good reason. Owned by Matt (“as English as baked beans on toast” according to their website) and his Angolan wife, Ana, their tapas have been causing quite a stir in the city in recent years. A blend of flavors largely inspired by Ana’s African roots give a spicy kick to the great Spanish tradition. For tapas in Granada with an international edge, look no further.