It seemed like vermouth had faded from everyday customs, but in Barcelona, it is experiencing a spectacular revival. Having a vermouth with company before lunch has become one of the trendiest plans and a true declaration of love for local culture. It’s much more than a simple aperitif; it’s a social ritual, a pause to disconnect from the hustle, and a moment to enjoy conversation and delicious tapas. The city is full of establishments that pay tribute to this drink, offering everything from the most classic flavor to creative and avant-garde proposals.
At HCC Hotels, we know that living the city like a local is the best way to travel. That’s why we invite you to discover the growing vermouth scene in Barcelona and the best places to enjoy this tradition that is more alive than ever, ensuring your experience is unforgettable.
Vermouth Culture: a ritual making a strong comeback
Vermouth, a wine-based drink flavored with herbs, has been part of Catalan culture for decades. Known as “l’hora del vermut” (vermouth hour), this custom is celebrated at midday, a perfect time to whet your appetite before lunch. The key is not just the drink itself, but also the accompaniments: a good vermouth on tap or bottled is served with olives, potato chips, and a wide variety of tapas, from high-quality preserved goods to fresh seafood.
Barcelona is the epicenter of this revival, with venues that maintain the tradition and others that reinvent it with modern touches. It’s a plan accessible to everyone, whether for a quick escape or a full afternoon of socializing.
The Vermouth Classics in Barcelona: tradition and flavor in every glass
These establishments are considered pillars of Barcelona’s vermouth tradition. They are the perfect place for those seeking authenticity and timeless flavor, guaranteeing an experience that has withstood the test of time.
Quimet i Quimet
Located in the heart of the vibrant Poble-sec neighborhood, Quimet i Quimet is a classic among classics. With over 100 years of history, this tiny bar is famous for its vermouth on tap and spectacular `montaditos` (small sandwiches). With a consistently busy and cozy atmosphere, space is limited, and people eat standing up, which adds a special charm to the experience. The quality of their preserved goods, cheeses, and seafood is unmatched, and every `montadito` is a small culinary work of art. It is a mandatory stop for those looking for an authentic experience and one of the best vermouth bars in Barcelona.
- Address: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25, 08004 Barcelona
Bodegueta Cal Pep
In the Sants neighborhood, Bodegueta Cal Pep is a historic bodega that has managed to maintain its neighborhood charm. It’s a delight for the palate, offering an excellent house vermouth on tap and a fantastic selection of fresh fish and seafood tapas. Here you can enjoy authentic delicacies such as goose barnacles, razor clams, and sea snails, or try their famous `peperinis`, peppers stuffed with anchovies or cheese. This place, with its nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service, is the ideal spot for those who appreciate product quality and a lively, local neighborhood vibe.
- Address: Carrer de Canalejas, 115, 08014 Barcelona
Barcelona’s new wave of Vermouth Bars: sophisticated atmosphere and avant-garde
Alongside the classics, Barcelona has seen the rise of a new generation of vermouth bars that have modernized the concept, combining vermouth with signature cocktails, live music, and more creative cuisine.
Vermuteria Lou
In the heart of the Gràcia neighborhood, Vermuteria Lou has earned a reputation for its excellent offering of vermouth and high-quality homemade tapas. This establishment is known for serving Izaguirre brand vermouth on tap, an experience that combines tradition and flavor. Their menu offers a wide selection of cold and hot tapas, from classic `huevos rotos con jamón` (fried eggs with ham) to homemade croquettes and delicious grilled meats. With a relaxed and friendly neighborhood atmosphere, it is the ideal place to enjoy the authentic aperitif ritual in Barcelona.
- Address: Carrer de l’Escorial, 3, 08024 Barcelona
Stelar Vermuteria Cervecería
Located in the Eixample, Stelar is the perfect place for those who want to explore the new trends in vermouth and craft beer in the same space. This venue combines the best of both worlds with a modern concept and a curated selection of vermouths and craft beers. Its menu stands out for its fusion cuisine, which includes traditional tapas with avant-garde touches. It is an ideal spot for a young crowd and for those looking for an experience beyond the conventional, with an offering that perfectly blends the best of tradition and innovation.
- Address: Carrer de Calàbria, 209, 08029 Barcelona
Balius
Defined as a cocktail bar specializing in vermouth, Balius is the perfect place for those who want to explore all the facets of this drink. In its elegant venue in the Poblenou neighborhood, which retains the sign of the old drugstore, you can find vermouth on tap, bottled, white, red, rosé, and in cocktails, with varieties to suit all tastes. To accompany the drinks, they offer a menu of cured meats and tapas inspired by Aragonese and Castilian culture. In the evening, Balius transforms into a go-to cocktail bar, with live jazz music on Sundays. It is a space that combines history, elegance, and a touch of avant-garde.
- Address: Carrer de Pujades, 196, 08005 Barcelona
Your vermouth tour from HCC Hotels
Enjoying vermouth culture is an outdoor plan in Barcelona that perfectly complements a stay in the city center. Our hotels are strategically located so you can start your tour of the best vermouth bars, from the most classic to the most modern, without long journeys.
After an afternoon of vermouth and laughter, return to the comfort of your HCC Hotel. We await you with the warmth of our team and the amenities needed for a well-deserved rest. Book your room with us and live the authentic Barcelona aperitif experience.
