El Chigre 1769
Historic Barcelona tapas bar serving classic Catalonian & Asturian dishes with a modern twist, famous for its cider.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
El Chigre 1769
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Barcelona tapas bar serving classic Catalonian & Asturian dishes with a modern twist, famous for its cider.
"Best restaurant in Barcelona so far and worth the wait!"
🎯 Book Ahead for Dinner
El Chigre is small! Reservations are essential for dinner to guarantee a spot.
🍎 Try the Asturian Cider
It's a house specialty and a unique experience. Ask for the traditional pour!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grilled Octopus
Main Dining Area
Tender, perfectly grilled octopus that's a must-try for seafood lovers.
Bone Marrow Dish
Bar Area
A unique and flavorful tapa that's a standout on their innovative menu.
Sardines & Tomato Bread
Tapas Menu
Classic, expertly prepared tapas showcasing fresh ingredients.
Asturian Cider
Bar
Experience the authentic pour and taste of traditional Asturian cider.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations are Key
Embrace the Cider Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Dinner
El Chigre is small! Reservations are essential for dinner to guarantee a spot.
🍎 Try the Asturian Cider
It's a house specialty and a unique experience. Ask for the traditional pour!
🐙 Don't Miss the Octopus
Consistently praised as a top dish, incredibly tender and flavorful.
💰 Tipping is Appreciated
No service charge, so consider tipping for great service.
Fancy-ish dining with toddler
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Dinner
El Chigre is small! Reservations are essential for dinner to guarantee a spot.
🍎 Try the Asturian Cider
It's a house specialty and a unique experience. Ask for the traditional pour!
🐙 Don't Miss the Octopus
Consistently praised as a top dish, incredibly tender and flavorful.
💰 Tipping is Appreciated
No service charge, so consider tipping for great service.
🚶 Arrive Early for Walk-ins
If no reservation, try going right at opening or during off-peak times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Chigre 1769 is celebrated for its delicious, expertly prepared tapas and traditional dishes, particularly its seafood. Diners love the authentic, historic ambiance and the unique Asturian cider experience. While small and often busy, the friendly service and high-quality food make it a highly recommended spot for an unforgettable meal in Barcelona.
"The food is delicious. I highly recommend trying the grilled octopus and steak. Don’t miss out on their catch of the day as well. The apple cider is simply fantastic. Since there’s no service charge, it would be great to leave a tip."
Jason Hiak
"Fantastic little place. Not that many seats, so reserve early. Cannot reserve for one but went extra early and was warmly received. (But in November ... don't try this in the summer...) .Great friendly service, warm vibe. Food may offer some of the classic tapas but it's so expertly prepared that it's like tasting it for the first time. Super quality."
Gaetan Lacasse
"Best restaurant in Barcelona so far and worth the wait (we didn't have a reservation, waited ~30 minutes and got a bar seat around 9 PM). Up until this point (3 days in Barcelona),we've been missing the gastronomy in Madrid. El Chigre, being seafood-forward whose chefs clearly respect the freshest ingredients in their way of cooking, has won our bellies and officially put Barcelona's food scene top tier for us. Everything was executed thoughtfully, well-balanced and show cases the fresh ingredients. The cheesecake here was fantastic - seriously cheese-y and creamy smooth. Fantastic meal, fantastic team members. Our hearts and bellies are full."
Fiona
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Chigre 1769 is centrally located in Barcelona, making it accessible by public transport. The nearest metro stations are Jaume I (L4) and Liceu (L3). Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from popular areas like the Gothic Quarter.
Absolutely! It's situated in the heart of Barcelona, close to many attractions, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.
From Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), you can take the Aerobus to Plaça de Catalunya and then a short metro ride or taxi to El Chigre. Alternatively, a direct taxi or ride-share service is convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, due to the restaurant's small size and popularity. You can often book online or by phone.
It's possible, but not guaranteed. Arriving early, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays, might allow you to get a seat, often at the bar.
Opening hours can vary, but they are typically open for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours.
No, there is no admission fee. You pay for the food and drinks you consume.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Visitors rave about the grilled octopus, bone marrow, sardines, and tomato bread. Their catch of the day and steak are also highly recommended.
While seafood and meat dishes are prominent, they often have creative vegetable-based tapas like the sardine, pear, and eggplant salad mentioned by a creator. It's worth inquiring about current vegetarian offerings.
They are famous for their Asturian cider, but also offer a good selection of regional wines and vermouth.
With its classic ambiance and delicious food, it's a great spot for a date night. The intimate setting and quality dishes make for a memorable experience.
Yes, it's considered a place where families with toddlers can dine comfortably, offering a nice dining experience without being overly formal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic interior, the unique cider pouring technique, and beautifully plated dishes. The historic location next to an old church also offers great exterior shots. +1
Yes, taking photos of your delicious food is generally welcomed, especially if you're sharing your experience online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to book a table in advance, especially if you have a stroller or need specific seating arrangements. Arriving early for lunch can also be a good strategy to ensure a more relaxed meal with children. The unique cider pouring might even entertain curious little ones!
💑 Couples Seeking a Romantic Meal
Reserve a table well in advance to secure a cozy spot. Enjoy sharing a selection of their exquisite tapas and savoring the regional wines or cider. The attentive service and the restaurant's historic charm contribute to a truly special dining experience.
🍷 Foodies & Wine Enthusiasts
Beyond the food, the curated selection of Asturian cider, regional wines, and vermouth offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Spanish beverages. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations to perfectly pair your drinks with your meal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Authentic Asturian Cider Experience
Don't be shy to ask the staff to demonstrate or to try it yourself if you're feeling adventurous. The cider is dry, crisp, and slightly tart, making it a refreshing accompaniment to the rich tapas and traditional dishes. It's a taste of authentic Northern Spanish culture right in Barcelona.
A Taste of Tradition with a Modern Twist
Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and quality of ingredients, particularly for seafood like the grilled octopus and sardines. Even a simple tomato bread is executed with such finesse that it becomes a highlight. This thoughtful approach to cooking ensures a memorable gastronomic journey for every diner.
The Ambiance: Historic Charm Meets Lively Buzz
Despite its historic feel, the atmosphere is far from stuffy. It's often described as 'hectic when filled' and having a 'warm vibe' with 'fantastic team members.' This lively yet welcoming environment makes it a great spot for both intimate dinners and more casual gatherings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit