Bar El Xampanyet

El Xampanyet is an iconic, century-old cava and tapas bar in Barcelona's Born district, established in 1929 and still run by the same family. Located just steps from the Picasso Museum on the historic Carrer de Montcada, it is a living piece of Barcelona's culinary history.

The bar is famous for its namesake drink — a cold, slightly sweet house cava served in traditional coupe glasses — and its short, authentic tapas menu. Favourites include the Cantabrian anchovies, butifarra sausage, tortilla de patatas, and fried padrón peppers. The bustling, standing-room-only space, adorned with hand-painted tiles and wine barrels, is part of its undeniable charm. The lack of pretension, the vibrant, shoulder-to-shoulder atmosphere, and the quick, friendly service make it an institution beloved by both locals and visiting chefs.