Where to Eat in Granada, Spain
Try One of These Tapas Bars or a Traditional Spanish Restaurant
Jan 27, 2008
Eating out in Granada, Southern Spain, can be an unusual and wonderful experience. The variety of food available almost matches the variety of décor. Tapas are now popular around the world, but it is an essential part of the Spanish experience to taste tapas in their country of origin.
Tapas Bars
A tapa is a small portion of food served as a snack, with a drink. Originally tapas were free with drinks and in some places they will still be offered at no charge. Granada is one of the few cities that uphold this tradition and here are three places to sample free tapas:
- Bodegas Castañeda is a traditional Spanish tapas bar serving free tapas and is frequented by the local people, which is always a good sign. However, it does mean that it can be very busy and might be difficult to find a seat. Inexpensive food can also be ordered from the menu when you do find a free table. They open every day at 11.30am until 4pm, and then again from 7pm to 1am. Calle Almireceros, 1
- Bar Poe is another tapas bar that offers free tapas. Not typically Spanish, it is run by a British couple, but they are just as welcoming. Try the chicken stew with polenta tapa. They open from 8pm and are closed on Mondays. Calle Verónica de la Magdalena
- La Riviera is well frequented by local people as well as tourists and their free tapas include the delicious typical Spanish omelette called tortilla. Calle Cetti Meriém, 7
Restaurants
Restaurants in Granada serve a good selection of food and as with any international city, there are many eateries to choose from. The area is heavily influenced by the Moors, and the Moroccan food offered in many restaurants has been served here for several generations.
- Arrayanes serves authentic Moroccan food including cous-cous, chicken and lamb tajines and tasty dessert pastries. Vegetarians do well here, and the intimate atmosphere is relaxing. They do not serve alcohol, but try their house lemonade which is mixed with fresh mint. (Non-acoholic beer is available.) Prices start around US$20 (13euros). Cuesta Marañas, 4 Tel +34 958 22 84 01 (Ask for directions when booking a table. Staff speak English as well as several other languages.)
- Las Tomasas has an outside terrace with wonderful views of the Alhambra. International cuisine served beautifully on delicate china and with linen napkins. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. Prices from US$30 (20 euros). Carril de San Agustin Tel +34 958 224 108 (Difficult to find so best to go by taxi)
- Corrala del Carbón is the place to go for traditional Spanish food, with meat and fish dishes of the region, combined with the Andalucian courtyard décor. There is a tapas bar at the front, but go for the main menu. Prices start from US$30 (20 euros). Closed on Mondays. Calle Mariana Pineda , 8 Tel +34 958 223 810
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