El Xampanyet

Founded in 1929, Xampanyet is an iconic tapas tavern located in the heart of Barcelona's El Born neighbourhood. This family-run establishment, located near the Picasso Museum, has retained its authentic Catalan charm over the years. Its name, "El Xampanyet", alludes to the sparkling cava wine it offers, a Catalan alternative to French champagne.

The place stands out for its lively and traditional atmosphere.The decoration, with colorful ceramic tiles, marble tables and shelves full of bottles, evokes a Barcelona of yesteryear. The atmosphere is bustling, crowded by locals and tourists mingling in a small space, often standing by the bar.

Xampanyet offers a selection of traditional Catalan tapas, made with fresh and quality ingredients.Among its specialties are anchovies, potato tortillas (sometimes with chorizo), Iberian ham and bread with tomato. The house cava, fresh and slightly sweet, is the perfect accompaniment to the tapas.

The Xampanyet is a popular spot, so it's a good idea to arrive early or be willing to wait. Despite its popularity, it maintains an intimate and authentic atmosphere, offering a genuine culinary experience in Barcelona.The service is quick and friendly, even if the place is full. It is a must-see destination for those looking to taste the essence of the most traditional Barcelona.

* **Go early:** Xampanyet is super popular, so it's best to arrive before 8:30 pm, especially if you want to grab a table. If you go at 7pm, you'll have a better chance of finding a good spot!

* **Sit at the bar:** If you manage to find a hole in the bar, take advantage of it! It's the best place to see all the action and choose the tapas that appeal to you the most.

* **Ask the waiters:** They are very friendly and know what they are doing!If you don't know what to order, let them recommend it. Sometimes they have off-charter dishes that are spectacular.

* **Options for later:** If you're in the mood for more, explore the nearby cava bars, vermouth shops, or tapas bars in the Gracia neighborhood.