First you need to know that the word tapa means lid and is the popular name of a wide variety of appetizers in Spanish cuisine. The tradition of serving these small snacks with drinks is found all over Spain and is popping up all over the world.

It is not certain the true origin of the tradition though the most widely accepted version holds that people at local bars would cover their glasses with slices of bread between sips in order to prevent flies from landing in the drinks. This edible lid was the precursor of modern-day tapas.

In Spain, tapas can be eaten at any time of the day, they are often enjoyed between the main meals – between breakfast and lunch, between lunch and dinner, and during the bar-hopping that occurs after dinner. To understand Spanish culture you should experience the Mediterranean tradition of going out for tapas or tapear, visiting bars to sample their most appetizing bites. We could say that tapas is synonyms for gastronomy, drinks, conversation and friendship.

Below is a list of our recommended restaurants where you’ll have a true Spanish experience.

Go tapa-ing and enjoy yourself!

La Bulería

A unique show performed by the best flamenco artists in the Valencian community, set in a genuine Spanish gastronomic atmosphere, two of the most valued treasures of this country. La Bulería is responding to a new concept of tablao flamenco in which a renovated and up-to-date, care for flamenco esthetic stands out. It is located in the city centre , only 3 minutes from the City of Arts and Sciences and is open only on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. From April it also open on Sundays.

• Obispo Jaime Pérez, 24 / Phone: (+34) 963 153 058
• Website: www.labuleria.com
• See on Google Maps

Bodega Montaña

This is one of the city’s oldest eating places, serving traditional tapas in a 19th-century bar in the fisherman’s quarter of El Cabanyal. This tapas bar has been selling wine by the barrel since 1836. A vintage establishment with great personality, a meeting place for politicians, intellectuals and artists, it has international renown through the best publications in gastronomy, wine and travel. The cured hams and “boutique” cheeses are among the finest in town. And no one does wood-roasted peppers better than the cook here. You might prefer the deliciously fat anchovies.

• Jose Benlliure, 69 / Phone: (+34) 963 672 314
• Website: www.emilianobodega.com
• See on Google Maps

Bodega La Goyesca

This bar obtained the first prize in the Cruzcampo Tapas Contest with its Serrano stew in 2008. The owner, José Luis Llamas, born in Cordoba, moved to Valencia bringing the atmosphere that you may find in the original Andalusian bars. You can have your tapas on the bar as the tradition demands or in the large dining room, decorated with allusions to the world of bullfighting and Andalusian culture. They offer a wide variety of tapas to share and enjoy throughout the day.

• Maestro Gozalbo, 25 / Phone: (+34) 963 951 894
• Website: www.bodegalagoyesca.com
• See on Google Maps

La Malquerida

La Malquerida is another award winning bar thanks to its Crunchy prawn in romesco sauce, a real delight. At La Malquerida, it’s recommended to eat in traditional Spanish style, by sharing different starters and then asking for an individual main course. These dishes are accompanied by their marvellous wines, since La Malquerida is one of the city’s best wine-bars. Just 200 metres from La Malquerida, there is a fun Disco Pub called Walk About where you can enjoy the best music and a good atmosphere.

• Calle Polo y Peyrolon, 53 / Phone: (+34) 963 891 186
• Website: www.lamalquerida.com
• See on Google Maps

Tasca Angel

The classic choice for a midday beer or glass of wine, this busy stand-up bar behind the Lonja (established 1946) also serves supreme quality tapas and a few imaginative choices. This place is a legend in Valencia and you would do well to have your tapas experience here. It has been particularly popular for the filleted and fried sardines, they are among the best in town.

• Calle de la Purisima, 1 / Phone: (+34) 963 917 835
• See on Google Maps

El Albero

If you want atmosphere this is the right place. El Albero - another Andalusian Tavern – offers authentic tapas at a very reasonable price. Sometimes around 11pm, they dimmed the lights inside and sang Andalusian songs. This is one of the best tapas bar in Valencia, so we recommend to reserve especially on a weekend.

• Calle de Ciscar, 12 / Phone: (+34) 963 356 273
• See on Google Maps

La Cepa Vieja

If you like sampling tapas and wines go to La Cepa Vieja. It is a new modern restaurant which decoration is very much focused on the world of wine. A nice atmosphere which offers a different experience linking tradition and modern values in the local gastronomy.

• San Vicente, 209 / Phone: (+34) 963 423 236
• Website: www.lacepavieja.es
• See on Google Maps

Sagardi

Located in the historic city centre, between the Cathedral, the Town Hall and the Central Market. The building is protected by heritage of high historical value. Basque cuisine with double gastronomic concept: pintxos bar that offers over 80 varieties and, moreover, the restaurant-grill grid on firewood. A real delight.

• San Vicente Mártir, 6 / Phone: (+34) 902 520 522
• Website: www.sagardi.com
• See on Google Maps

Have you tried another restaurant that deserves to be on the list?

If you have gone to a place and had a good time, tell us your experience posting a comment or writing at info@extravalencia.com