Streetlife: Carrer de Blai

Updated January 18, 2021.

If you're in the mood for pintxos, Carrer de Blai in Poble Sec has got what you're looking for. From the traditional to the creative, the local bars along this small neighborhood street have got you covered. Can't decide which one to go to? How about all of them? Start at one end of Blai and work your way to the other in a "tapas crawl." There are many bars to choose from—here are five of our favorites:

• Koska Taverna

  Hailing from the Basque Country and Argentina, owners Ekaitz and Eduardo opened this restaurant four years ago. The duo strive to recreate true tavern life and make Koska a meeting place for friends, where gastronomy takes center stage and every bite has a well-selected wine pairing. There is also a terrace to relax on while savoring the tasty fare. “When we originally picked this location, Blai was much quieter,” Ekaitz explained. “But we’re happy with the way the area has been regenerated. Now locals and tourists think this is the best spot to be in the city.”

• Blai 9

  The owners of this innovative tapas bar believe that “tapas are an expression of freedom” and rules simply get in the way. The team of food professionals are committed to offering high-quality tapas with a twist. Blai 9 is a self-service place, so help yourself to scrumptious-looking nibbles offered up on colorful platters. A tough choice indeed.

• La Tasqueta de Blai

  With a caña and pintxo for two euros, this place champions tradition. The pintxos are made with typical ingredients and served atop slices of floury baguette. “If you’re hopping from one pintxos bar to the next, you have to stop here,” said Rafael, from Mexico. “It’s a great place to enjoy the people and ambience of this area, plus the house wine is really good and super cheap.”

• Taberna Blai Tonight

  Offering a variety of delicious tapas and montaditos for only one euro each, this little tapas bar is a great stop for those on a budget. With so many tapas to choose from at such a great price, this place is often crowded, be prepared to eat standing up if you turn up at peak times.

• L'Atelier de Blai

  Keeping with the theme of Carrer de Blai, L’Atelier offers a buffet of various pintxos and tells customers to keep their sticks so they can calculate the bill at the end of a delicious evening. What stands out here? The gracious owners and keen staff who do all they can to make your visit top notch.

  Originally published September 2015, updated January 10, 2021.