Where to have the best “vermouth” in Barcelona

If you live in Spain you would often hear the expression “have a vermouth” (or vermú). This action generally includes going to a bar to have a drink and some snack as some olives, some chips or some tapas, especially on Sundays before having lunch. But the word vermú actually refers to the alcoholic beverage that is usually taken in this “sacred” social event. It is a soft liquor made from white wine, wormwood and other bitter substances. There are of two types, white and red, and both are served with an olive on a stick dipped in the liquid and a slice of orange or lemon, sometimes mixed with soda. The most common thing to do is, during the day, is to order a red vermouth with ice. If you are spending some time in Barcelona and staying in one of our rental apartments you are probably already familiar with this sweet drink, but if you’re still a rookie, here’s a list of the most recommended to try a good vermouth … Take good note!

Quimet & Quimet: the owner of this winery, Quim Perez, has managed to maintain this place’s tradition. They opened in 1914 (Barcelona is so different now!) and Quim has introduced innovative elements into their tapas. Accompanying them you could have some of the best vermuts in town. C/ Poeta Cabanyes, 25.

Morro Fi: a small bar located right on the corner of Comte Borrell Street with Consell de Cent, which has its own homemade vermouth brand elaborated with the “secret” recipe. If you go on Sunday with all your friends don’t expect to find a free table, but don’t miss the chance to taste the vermouth even standing on the bar. C/ Consell de Cent, 171.

Bodega Vinito: This winery is open to the street and is full of huge barrels. There they produce exquisite homemade vermouth that you can buy in bulk or taste it right there along with some “in-credible” tapas. We recommend you the manchego cheese. If you want a good wine, this is also your place! C/ Parlament, 27.

Bodega d’en Rafel: in this traditional bar Rafel himself will serve you the vermouth in a large glass where you can add some soda if you like. Although it is a spacious bar is always full of the most varied clients and, as its owner says, “we don’t reserve tables here”, who comes first have the table! This is for sure a place with special charm. C/ Manso, 52.

Bodegueta Cal Pep: this winery located in the Sants district, a residential and familiar district, keeps the traditional decoration and concept. There, almost all the clients are native. The old “sifones” empty glass bottles on the shelves add authenticity to the place. C/Canalejas, 12.

El Xampanyet: is one of the most popular bars in Barcelona for its central location in the Born district, and is well known for its wine similar to champagne (xampanyet), for its anchovies, for its typical marble tables where it is very difficult to find a place and, of course, for its vermouth. With an authentic and traditional decoration. C/ Montcada, 22.

Bodega Saltó: After Quimet & Quimet, we come back to Poble Sec to visit this winery converted into a bar and concert hall, which is full of old wooden barrels with a very unique dolls and figures that provides a theatrical atmosphere. C/ Blesa, 36.

La Vermuteria del Tano o Can Miseria: a small winery open since 1927 that still doesn’t have an official name. Some people call it The Tano by the name of its owner (Tano or Antonio), and others “Can Miseria”, but what everyone knows is that it serves really good stuffed olives and octopus, accompanied by a sweet vermouth. C/ Bruniquer, 30.