What would Barcelona be without the “bar”—or so the saying goes. While it makes sense that a city famed for its nightlife would have more than its fair share of drinking holes, in Spain these institutions are much more than just nightlife venues. Instead, the best bars in Barcelona play a key part in both family and professional lives; this is a country where people typically socialize outside their homes. Bars are where office workers go for their mid-morning, second breakfast, where purple-haired ladies meet for a cheeky glass of wine, and where four generations of family all congregate on Sunday mornings for the local ritual of a pre-lunch tipple.
Beer and wine have long been the drinks of choice in Barcelona’s storied bars, but you’ll also find locals ordering vermut, a traditional spin on fortified wine (or vermouth); usually based on a white wine, that’s been zhuzhed up with spirits and spices. More recently, Barcelonians have also developed a taste for natural wine and cocktails—and the latter has become such a big deal in these parts that the top bars in the world for the last two consecutive years are both here. These are the best bars in Barcelona, from cocktail lounges to natural-wine joints, vermuterías, and dives.
Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve.
