The Best Tapas Dishes to Try in Spain!
If you’re visiting Spain, indulging in the best tapas dishes is an absolute must. Tapas aren’t just food- they’re an experience! Whether you’re sipping on a chilled sangria in Barcelona or pairing your bite-sized plates with a crisp glass of tinto de verano in Madrid, tapas are the perfect way to immerse yourself in Spain’s vibrant food culture. On my recent trip to Barcelona, I found myself hopping from one tapas restaurant to another, ordering a little bit of everything and savouring each bite. From crispy patatas bravas to sizzling gambas al ajillo, every dish wash bursting with flavour!
But with so many incredible Spanish tapas food options, how do you know what to try first? That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve put together a list of 15 must-try tapas recipes that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re craving seafood, something crispy and fried, or a plate of jamón ibérico, these dishes highlight the best of tapas style food. Plus, I’ll share tips on how to order tapas like a local, so you can confidently explore Spain’s incredible food scene. Ready to dig in? Let’s dive into the ultimate list of the best tapas dishes you can’t miss in Spain!
What are Tapas?
Tapas are more than just small plates- they’re a way of life in Spain! Whether you’re in a bustling bar in Madrid or a seaside tapas restaurant in Barcelona, the experience of sharing different dishes while sipping on Sangria is something every traveler should embrace.
Traditionally, tapas were simple snacks served with drinks, but over time, they’ve evolved into an essential part of Spanish cuisine. Some places still serve free tapas when you order a drink (especially in Granada), while others have extensive tapas menus filled with everything from crispy patatas bravas to sizzling gambas al ajillo.
There are different types of tapas too. Cold ones, like pan con tomate, are simple yet flavourful, while hot tapas, like chorizo a la sidra, are heartier. In the Basque region, you’ll find pintxos, which are small bites served on bread and often skewered with a toothpick.
No matter where you go, one thing is certain: tapas style food is all about enjoying a variety of flavours and sharing good times. It’s the perfect way to sample Spain’s best flavours without committing to just one dish- because why choose when you can have it all?
How to Order Tapas in Spain
Ordering tapas in Spain is an art- and knowing how to do it right will make your experience even better. Whether you’re at a traditional tapas restaurant in Madrid or hopping between bars in Seville, understanding how to navigate a tapas menu will help you enjoy the full experience.
First, know that tapas come in different portion sizes. A tapa is a small serving, perfect for sampling, while a media ración (half portion) or ración (full portion) is meant for sharing. Some cities, like Granada, even serve free Spanish tapas food when you order a drink- one of Spain’s best-kept secrets!
Tapas are meant to be enjoyed casually. Instead of ordering everything at once, start with a couple of dishes and see how you feel. Locals love tapas style food because it allows them to try multiple flavours in one meal.
For the best experience, go on a tapas crawl, stopping at different places and trying each bar’s specialty. Whether it’s crispy patatas bravas creamy croquetas, or fresh boquerones en vinagre, tapas are all about variety and enjoying the moment. So grab a glass of tinto de verano and dive in!
The Best Tapas Dishes to Try in Spain!
1. Patatas Bravas
No list of the best tapas dishes would be complete without patatas bravas- Spain’s ultimate comfort food. This iconic dish consists of crispy, golden potatoes topped with a bold, smoky bravas sauce (a slightly spicy tomato-based sauce) and creamy aioli. It’s a must-try if you love bold flavours and crunchy textures.
Every tapas restaurant in Spain has its own take on patatas bravas, but one of the best places to try them is Bar Tomás in Barcelona, famous for their extra-crispy potatoes and legendary sauce. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cold beer or a refreshing tinto de verano, this dish is an absolute classic!
2. Pan con tomate (Pa amb Tomàquet)
Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most delicious, and pan con tomate is proof of that. This Catalan staple consists of crusty breead rubbed with ripe tomato, drizzled with olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with a plate of jamón ibérico or Spanish tapas food like queso manchego.
You’ll find pan con tomate on almost every tapas menu, especially in Barcelona, where it’s a breakfast, lunch, and dinner essential. For an authentic experience, try it at El Xampanyet, a lively bar near the Picasso Museum known for its incredible cava and traditional tapas style food.
3. Croquetas
One bite of croquetas, and you’ll understand why they’re one of the best tapas dishes in Spain. These crispy, golden bites are filled with a creamy béchamel sauce and often mixed with jamón ibérico, cheese, or seafood like cod. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavourful filling makes them completely addictive.
Every tapas restaurant in Spain serves croquetas, but if you want to try some of the best, head to Casa Julio in Madrid- a local favourite known for its perfectly fried, rich, and indulgent croquettes. Pair them with a glass of tinto de verano and you’re in for a treat!
4. Gambas al Ajillo
If you love seafood, gambas al ajillo is a must-try. This sizzling dish features shrimp cooked in garlic-infused olive oil with a touch of chili for the perfect balance of heat and flavour. The best part? Dipping fresh bread into the garlicky oil to soak up every last drop.
This classic can be found on almost any tapas menu, but for the ultimate experience, visit La Casa del Abuelo in Madrid- a legendary spot serving Spanish tapas food since 1906!
5. Tortilla Española
A true Spanish classic, tortilla española (also known as Spanish omelet) is one of the best tapas dishes to try when visiting Spain. Made with eggs, potatoes, and sometimes onions, this thick, hearty omelet is served warm or at room temperature and can be found in nearly every tapas restaurant across the country.
While some versions are firmer and sliceable, others have a gooey centre that melts in your mouth. If you’re in Madrid, head to Juana La Loca, famous for its caramelized onion twist on this traditional dish. Enjoy it as a light bite or a satisfying meal on its own!
6. Pimientos de Padrón
A simple yet exciting dish, pimientos de Padrón are small green peppers blistered in olive oil and sprinkled with flaky sea salt. Most are mild, but every so often, you’ll get a spicy one- making every bite a fun surprise. This dish is a must-try for anyone exploring Spanish tapas food.
Originally from Galicia, these peppers are now a staple on any tapas menu across Spain. For a truly authentic experience, try them in Santiago de Compostela, where they are locally grown and packed with flavour. They’re the perfect balance of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet!
7. Pulpo a la Gallega
If you’re a seafood lover, pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) is one of the best tapas dishes you can try in Spain. This traditional dish features tender octopus slices served over potatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and dusted with smoked paprika. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, slightly smoky flavour.
Hailing from Galicia, this dish is best enjoyed in the region’s coastal towns, but you can find it at many tapas restaurants across Spain. For an unforgettable experience, visit O Carballiño in Galicia, where the local festivals celebrate this iconic dish in grand style!
8. Albóndigas
Spanish-style meatballs, or albóndigas, are a hearty and flavourful dish found on almost every tapas menu. These tender, juicy meatballs are typically served in a rich tomato sauce, though some regions use an almond-based or sherry-infused sauce for extra depth.
While you can find albóndigas at any good tapas restaurant, one of the best places to try them is Casa Lucio in Madrid, known for its traditional Spanish cooking. Whether you’re a fan of comforting, saucy dishes or just looking for something satisfying, these meatballs are always a great choice!
9. Jamón Ibérico
One of the best tapas dishes and a true delicacy of Spain, jamón ibérico is a must-try for any food lover. This world-renowned cured ham comes from black Iberian pigs and is aged for years to develop its signature rich, nutty flavour. Sliced paper-thin, it practically melts in your mouth.
You’ll find jamón ibérico hanging in every tapas restaurant and market across Spain, but for the highest quality, visit Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid, where you can sample different varieties. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with queso manchego, this Spanish classic is pure indulgence!
10. Boquerones en Vinagre
A refreshing and flavourful seafood tapa, boquerones en vinagre are fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic, and olive oil. Unlike the salty canned anchovies many people are familiar with, these are light, tangy, and incredibly tender, making them a must-try for seafood lovers exploring Spanish tapas food.
This dish is especially popular in coastal cities like Barcelona and Málaga, where the anchovies are as fresh as they come. For some of the best boquerones en vinagre, head to Bar La Plata in Barcelona, a tiny but legendary spot that has been serving them for decades!
11. Chorizo a la Sidra
Smoky, savoury, and packed with flavour, chorizo a la sidra is one of the best tapas dishes to try in Spain. This dish features Spanish chorizo simmered in apple cider, which enhances its rich, slightly spicy taste with a touch of sweetness. Served warm, it’s a comforting and hearty tapa that pairs perfectly with crusty bread to soak up the flavourful sauce.
Originating from Asturias, chorizo a la sidra is a specialty in the region’s cider houses. For an authentic experience, visit Oviedo, where you can enjoy this dish alongside traditional Asturian cider poured from high above the glass for extra aeration!
12. Queso Manchego
A must-try for cheese lovers, queso manchego is Spain’s most famous cheese, made from the milk of Manchega sheep. Aged for varying lengths of time, it ranges from mild and creamy to sharp and nutty, making it a versatile addition to any tapas menu. Often served in thin slices alongside quince paste or almonds, it’s a simple yet delicious way to experience Spanish tapas food.
For an authentic tasting experience, visit Cava Baja in Madrid, where you can enjoy a beautifully curated cheese board featuring queso manchego and other Spanish favourites. It’s the perfect tapa for those who love rich, bold flavours!
13. Dátiles con Bacon
The perfect combination of sweet and savoury, dátiles con bacon (dates wrapped in bacon) is one of the best tapas dishes you can try in Spain. The natural caramel-like sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the smoky, crispy bacon, creating a bite-sized tapa that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
This dish is a favourite in many tapas restaurants, but for an unforgettable version, head to El Tapeo de Cervantes in Málaga. Their perfectly cooked dátiles con bacon offer a delicious contrast of textures and flavours that will keep you coming back for more!
14. Calamares a la Romana
A staple of Spanish tapas food, calamares a la romana are crispy, golden rings of battered and fried squid. Light, crunchy, and tender on the inside, this dish is simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s often served with aioli or a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of flavour.
You’ll find calamares a la romana on nearly every tapas menu, but for one of the best versions, visit El Brillante in Madrid, where they serve it in a legendary sandwich known as the bocadillo de calamares- a must-try street food for any seafood lover!
15. Berenjenas con Miel
A unique Andalusian specialty, berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey) is one of the best tapas dishes to try in Spain. The thinly sliced eggplant is lightly battered and fried until golden, then drizzled with honey or molasses for the perfect balance of crispy, savoury, and sweet flavours.
This dish is especially popular in southern Spain, particularly in Seville and Málaga. For an unforgettable version, head to Eslava in Seville, where they serve some of the best berenjenas con miel in the city. It’s a must-try for those who love a mix of textures and flavours in their tapas!
Spain’s food culture is vibrant, social, and absolutely delicious, and there’s no better way to experience it than by trying the best tapas dishes. Whether you’re indulging in crispy patatas bravas, savouring melt-in-your-mouth jamón ibérico, or enjoying a plate of calamares a la romana, every bite tells a story of tradition and flavour.
Tapas aren’t just about the food- they’re about the experience. Hopping from one tapas restaurant to another, sharing plates, and pairing your meal with a refreshing tinto de verano is the best way to dive into Spanish tapas food.
Now it’s your turn! Have you tried any of these dishes? Which ones are at the top of your must-try list? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this guide with your fellow travellers!
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