Where to eat the best tapas in Granada
Like most of Spain, Granada has a reputation for excellent cuisine. At the crossroads between the best of Mediterranean and North African food, you will be certain to find many great gastronomic treasures. From the classic tapas bars to the beautiful, historic restaurants with amazing views, from tiny traditional bars and cheap eats to the more extravagant and unusual tapas, this wonderful city has it all. Whether you’re craving Jamon, croquettes or even Arabic tapas, we’ve got it all covered in this list of the top tapas bars in Granada.
Mirador de Morayma
Up high in the beautiful Albaicin neighbourhood is this restaurant. The crowning highlight is the stunning view of the Alhambra. The restaurant also plays a role in perfecting aesthetics. With a traditional courtyard, whitewashed walls and beautifully carved wooden rafters. These are complemented by the wall art and the stunningly tasteful crockery and cutlery. It is a wonderful example of the best of Moorish culture that so influenced the city. The food is also artfully served in a contemporary style but truly sticks to its Moorish cuisine roots. Prices are going to a bit higher, due to the superb location and atmosphere. Pair the splendid food with great local wine and let the ambience soak in.
Las Tinajas
An absolutely classic restaurant that is very much a reflection of its place. It has two tasting menus, one focusing on Andalusian cuisine and the other on Spanish and international fusion. There is also a great variety of set dishes. It is a hit with locals and tourists alike, so can be fairly busy inside. But this just reflects the great quality of ingredients and traditional style of interior decoration. The waiting staff are friendly and helpful and truly know their craft. This all comes together to make a fantastic, local experience. And with the great central location, you will be more than pleased. Very close to the Generalife Palace and the Federico Garcia Lorca park.
Alameda
Taking the iconic tapas at a bar of Granada to a whole new level, Alameda combines atmosphere with delectable cuisine. The ambiance is contemporary with an innovative avant-garde interior decor. The dishes are a modern twist on Andalusian classics, with an extremely impressive presentation. The ingredients are fresh and of very high quality. There are a number of fish dishes which come so ornately prepared, creating a Spanish-Japanese fusion. A very romantic place to visit if the timing is right, it is also very popular with the locals. It can get incredibly full, but this is a testament to the quality. There are a number of vegan and vegetarian options also.
Restaurante Chikito
On the Campillo square, very close to the Generalife Palace, is this fabulous and historical restaurant. Known as the spot for frequent visits of Federico Garcia Lorca and the famous literary circle El Rinconcillo. Today it still attracts many celebrities from both the local and international scene. And it is very easy to see why. With hearty portions of fantastic, Mediterranean food, you can be sure to enjoy yourself here. The interior is another great example of classic Andalusian decor. Alongside the friendly and attentive waiting staff, it is certainly worth a visit. The nods to the place’s history also bring an exciting difference in atmosphere. There are also a number of vegetarian options to choose from.
Bodegas Castañeda
A favorite amongst the locals and one of the most traditional tapas bars in Granada, Bodegas Castañeda is not to be missed. This little old bar is known for its exquisite Jamon and completely chaotic atmosphere. Fight your way to the bar, and be sure to order yourself traditional vermouth, and some of their ham tapas. Spicy, smoked, woody, salty… they have every single flavor you could wish for, and all served on a perfectly crispy sliver of bread. Watch as the skilled waiters rush around under hanging legs of cured ham and dance around the excited customers, as you dig into some of the best tapas in Granada.
Los Diamantes
There are three branches of this famous tapas bar in Granada, Plaza Nueva being a favorite amongst tourists, and Calle Navas being the original, and best for traditional tapas. The chef at the Calle Navas location specializes in fried-fish tapas, a very tricky dish to find in Granada. However, due to its fantastic location and even more spectacular tapas, if you arrive just one minute after Los Diamantes opens it’s doors you will be trampled by hungry Spaniards, all looking to taste their favorite tapas. The fight to the bar is worth it though, as you will be rewarded by sherry-soaked clams, fried salt cod, fresh seafood, and even tempura vegetable tapas.
Elvira81
For something a little lighter that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or in the evening, this is the place. It is a small, family run restaurant with a quiet and friendly atmosphere. The major emphasis of the food is on crepes, with a broad variety of both sweet and savory options. There is also a traditional Spanish menu that includes dishes like Spanish omelet, fresh salad, and gazpacho. It is also well known for its beautiful desserts and cakes, so is a great place to sit down inside from the sun. Located in the Albaicin area, you can visit whilst exploring that neighborhood. Menus are available in both Spanish and English, although it is a spot with a very local feel.