Originating in the late 19th century, Barcelona’s vermuterias still thrive today, in fluorescent-lit bodegas and sleek modern bars, serving vermouth (or vermut) the way it should be: unfussy, in good company, and ideally with tapas.
LessEl Chigre 1769
Spanish CuisineClosed Now1 PM – 12 AMEqual parts Catalan vermuteria and Asturian cider house, El Chigre brings together two of Spain’s most distinct culinary traditions. Alongside plenty of vermouth, they serve a proper pour of Asturian cider, theatrically poured from high above into a wide-mouthed glass.
Bodega Quimet
Tapas and Small Plates RestaurantClosed Now11 AM – 4 PM, 6 – 11 PMA tiny Gràcia bolthole that two brothers revived a decade ago, keeping its old-school bodega spirit intact. Squeeze in for tapas, wine, and their excellent house vermouth, and after a glass or two the lack of elbow room will start to feel like part of the charm.
El Tomás de Sarriá
Spanish CuisineClosed Now12:30 – 4 PM, 6:30 – 10 PMFamous across Barcelona for their patatas bravas. Go at aperitivo hour when the bar is at its liveliest, and you’ll see why everyone calls them the best in town.
Bar Bodega l'Electricitat
Wine BarClosed Now8 AM – 3 PM, 7 – 10:30 PMThis institution hasn’t changed much in over a century. The marble bar and old wooden wine vats have been there since day one, and while the lighting is fluorescent and nondescript bottles of the house vermouth sit atop new tables, the atmosphere is unchanged.
La Moderna
WineryClosed Now12:30 – 4 PM, 7 PM – 12 AMOn Rambla de Catalunya, sidle up to the entrance, order a vermouth from the hand-written chalkboard menu, and join the stream of locals who treat this place like their living room.
La Plata
Tapas BarClosed Now11 AM – 3 PM, 6 – 11 PMSince 1945, this tiny bar in the Gothic Quarter has served just four dishes—anchovies, tomato salad, butifarra sausage, and fried sardines—alongside vermouth on tap, of course.
La Vinya del Senyor
Wine BarClosed Now12 PM – 1 AMWith half a dozen tables spilling out in front of the Plaça de Santa Maria, this is one of the city’s most atmospheric bars. The wine list is incredibly extensive, the tapas are great, and the view of Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar’s Gothic facade right next door can’t be beat.
Morro Fi
Spanish CuisineClosed Now12 – 11 PMA modern take on the classic vermouth bar, Morro Fi keeps things unpretentious while taking its house-made vermouths seriously. The tiny, slightly industrial space is always spilling out into the street and buzzing with energy.
Colmado Múrria
Catalan CuisineClosed Now1 – 10:30 PMOne of the few surviving Art Nouveau ultramarinos—a cross between a gourmet grocery store and deli—Colmado Murria is equally beautiful and delicious. Grab a seat at one of the few tables, order some tapas and a glass of rich, syrupy, locally made Antich vermouth. Drink it straight–no soda or slice of orange.
