Tapas in Granada, the ultimate yummy guide

 

Thinking of going for tapas in Granada? Let me tell you, you’re heading to the right place!

 

Tapas are a hallmark of Granada’s gastronomic culture, bite-sized dishes traditionally offered with the purchase of a drink, usually free. 

 

And Granada is famous for its generosity, as with every drink customers are offered a unique tasty tapa to sample. 

 

In fact, every third Thursday of the month of June this culinary tradition is celebrated in Grandada as World Tapa Day, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to indulge in a variety of exquisite flavors in the most festive atmosphere.

 

By the way, do you exactly know what tapas are?

 

Tapas in Granada, the story behind delightful snacks

In Spanish “tapa” means cover but the origin of the name is still a mystery.

 

There are several theories, although all very convincing, none definitive.

 

Find below a few, and choose the one you like best, just like your favorite tapas in Granada.

 

• Sometime around the 16th century, Castile-La Mancha tavern keepers noticed how strong cured cheese smell could “cover ” bad wine taste.  So they started to offer complimentary cheese along with cheap wine.

 

• According to tradition, King Alfonso X of Castile got over an illness by drinking wine with small dishes between meals.   When he recovered his health, he ordered taverns to only serve wine with a small aperitif or “tapa” to customers.

 

• While passing through Cadiz, King Alfonso XII stopped by a tavern and asked for a glass of wine.   As it was windy the waiter, wisely, covered the glass to protect the wine from the sand with a slice of ham and offered it to the King.  The King drank the wine and ate the slice of ham and, to everyone’s astonishment, asked for another glass of wine “with the lid”.

 

• To prevent alcohol abuse, mainly among soldiers and sailors,King Philip III issued a curious law.   It states that each drink served must be topped with a lid with a small amount of food on it.   This way, by having a full stomach, people would drink less and alcohol had less effect.

 

No one knows the origin of tapas, but we can’t deny they represent the most genuine essence of Spain, where food, drink and toghetherness combine to create a magical and unforgettable experience.

 

In fact, there is no better way to soak up this fascinating culture than by indulging in some delicious tapas in Granada.

 

Quick Guide to Ordering Tapas in Granada

When it comes to enjoying tapas in Granada, a tapas tour is a fantastic way to experience the city’s culinary delights.

 

As you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the charming Albaicin neighborhood, or enjoy the breathtaking views of the majestic Alhambra.

 

In the bustling streets of Granada, tourists and locals alike mingle to enjoy the lively atmosphere of its emblematic bars. 

 

The terraces and patios become perfect settings for tasting tapas in Granada, always accompanied by a refreshing sangria, a cold local beer or a local wine.

 

Tapas in Granada may be cold, like olives and cheese or ham, or hot , such as fried eggs with ham, croquettes, fried eggplants with sugar cane honey, fried fresh fish or special stews.

 

I know that at first glance a tapas menu can be a bit overwhelming.

 

So many delicious possibilities to choose from!

 

Of course, you don’t want to miss out on the authentic taste of Granada, do you?

 

Well, that is why I’m dishing up the best tapas in Granada below for you!

 

Best 12 Tapas in Granada, that you cannot miss and where to go

• Croquetas 

 

These bechamel fritters with ham can only be described as fried balls of goodness.

 

You’ll find Croquetas de Jamón on the menu at most bars in Spain, but the best ones in Granada are at  Al pie De la Torre, just by the Cathedral Tower. 

 

• Roasted ham

 

Granada’s culinary specialty, Iberian ham marinated with a mixture of spices and baked at a low temperature.

 

The result is a roast ham with a golden, crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior. 

 

Granada roast ham is usually served in thin slices either hot or cold. 

 

Highly appreciated in Granada’s gastronomy and a delight for ham lovers.

 

Enjoy at La Macetilla or in La Picatería inside San Agustín market

 

• Migas

 

The migas alpujarreñas, typical Granada gastronomy that combines local ingredients such as semolina, olive oil, garlic, peppers, bacon, chorizo with Berber influences.

 

You cannot miss the ones from El Molino or  Kiosko Las Titas 

 

• Spanish omelette 

 

Essential Spanish ommelette. Made with eggs and potatoes can be sprinkled with onion, chives, or garlic. 

 

You will find it in almost every bar in Granada, my recommendation is Café Bar Marqués de Gerona

 

• Ham rings

 

If you are a Jamón Serrano lover, one of the  tapas in Granada that you cannot miss is the Rosca de Jamón, or “Ham Rings”.

 

A type of bread roll, shaped like a spiral stuffed with delicious ham..

 

Try the ones in La Buena Vida, they will not dissapoint you!

 

• Fried fish

 

A typical Andalusian tapa “Pescaíto frito” , are small pieces of fish battered and fried until crispy and golden brown.

 

Served with lemon slices for a refreshing citrus flavor.

 

Many tapas bars and seafood restaurants in Granada offer Pescadito frito but  Bar los Diamantes ranks amongst the best.

 

• Cured meats

Chacinas variety and quality  in Granada are impressive.

 

These tapas in Granada are a must have:

 

Jamón Ibérico de Bellota: The crown jewel. Made from acorn-fed Iberian pigs, cured for a long period of time, resulting in a ham that melts in your mouth.

 

Chorizo: Spanish sausage made with pork, paprika and spices, simply delicious. 

 

Morcilla: black pudding is a type of blood sausage made with pork blood, rice, onion and spices. It has a unique flavor and texture and is usually eaten grilled or fried. 

 

Salchichón: Salami is a cured sausage made with minced pork, fat and spices. Seasoned with garlic, black pepper, sometimes with wine, always tasty.

 

My recomendation,visit La Cueva de 1900 whose cured meats are of in-house produced.

 

• “Poor man’s potatoes” 

 

Its name reflects its humble origins and use of affordable and readily available ingredients, making simple but tasty dishes.

 

Thinly sliced potatoes, onions and green peppers are sautéed together in olive oil until tender and slightly caramelized, the best are at  Bar Zaidinero 

 

• Eggplant with honey

 

This tapa celebrates the cultural fusion and culinary heritage of Granada, blending Moorish and Spanish influences to create a unique and flavorful dish.

 

Crispy slices of fried eggplant drizzled with honey create a delicious contrast of flavors.

 

Try the ones in Taberna Andaluza, super tasty!

 

• Callos

 

Callos is beef tripe cooked in a hearty and tasty stew, with chorizo, sausage, black pudding and pork or beef, served piping hot in an earthenware casserole. 

 

Known for its rich, gelatinous texture and its unique flavor, just for brave tasters.

 

If you are one of them, you must try the Callos from Bar Saint Germain 

 

• Broad Beans and ham

 

The combination of the tender broad beans with the salty ham creates a delicious contrast of flavors.

 

This tapa shows off local ingredients, using fresh broad beans from the Vega of Granada in spring, reflecting the Granada’s traditional cuisine. 

 

Mesón Alegría, is one of the most traditional places to try them.

 

• Ensaladilla Rusa

 

Cold potato salad that usually includes carrots, peas, tuna, hard-boiled eggs and mayonnaise and is garnished with olives, sliced gherkins or parsley. 

 

Refreshing and creamy, it is perfect for hot summer months, as well as year-round, another one for your list of must try tapas in Granada, specially the ones at Restaurante San Remo 

 

Whether you are a foodie or curious traveler, Granada offers the perfect opportunity to dive into the vibrant tapas scene and discover its world-famous culinary culture.

 

Contact me, and let delight our senses with authentic flavors, enjoying the friendliness of Granada and a unique and memorable culinary experience.