Seville’s tapas culture isn’t just a way of eating, it’s a way of life. The city is packed with age old taverns, buzzing neighbourhood bars, and tiny family-run spots where recipes are passed down like heirlooms. If you want the real Seville, not the polished tourist version, these are the 5 authentic tapas bars locals swear by, each carrying its own story, history, and charm.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1). Casa Morales: (A Time Capsule From 1850)
Walk inside Casa Morales and it feels like stepping into another century. The massive clay wine amphoras (tinajas) lining the walls are original, more than 150 years old, and the bar still uses recipes that have barely changed since the family first opened it in 1850.
Casa Morales was once a grocery shop and wine store, and the back rooms still echo that heritage.
Fun Local Fact: Sevillanos say “If these barrels could talk, they’d tell the history of the city.”
What to order: Tortilla, mojama (cured tuna), local sherry.
Why go: It’s one of the oldest and most atmospheric bars in the entire city.
2). Bodeguita Romero: (Birthplace of the Legendary Pringá)
This tiny bar is practically a shrine to the montadito de pringá, a slow-cooked pork sandwich that originated here. Families in Seville even compare their pringá recipes to Romero’s, that’s how influential it is.
Fun Local Fact: Many locals joke that “Real Sevillanos are raised on Romero’s pringá before they can walk.”
What to order: Montadito de pringá (obviously), salmorejo, Iberian pork.
Why go: Pure Andalusian soul food in its simplest, tastiest form.
3). Bar Casa Vizcaíno: (The Home of Orange Wine & Old-School Vibes)
Casa Vizcaíno is known across the city for its vino de naranja, Seville’s famous orange wine, made from bitter oranges that grow all around the city. You’ll find locals standing elbow-to-elbow, sipping vermouth and digging into seafood tapas.
Fun Local Fact: Their orange wine is still made using an old family recipe that hasn’t been shared outside the bar for decades.
What to order: Mussels, prawns, orange wine, vermouth.
Why go: A neighbourhood gem with a vibrant, everyday Sevillano feel.
4). El Rinconcillo: (The Oldest Bar in Seville - Founded in 1670!)
This iconic spot claims to be the oldest bar in all of Spain. That wooden bar counter, the handwritten chalk tabs, and the Moorish tiles are original or faithfully preserved. Locals love it because, despite the fame, it has never lost its traditional edge.
Fun Local Fact: Your bill here is still sometimes written in chalk on the bar, a tradition from centuries ago.
What to order: Espinacas con garbanzos, bacalao, croquetas.
Why go: To eat inside a living piece of history.
5). Bar Alfalfa: (A Cozy Crossroads of Cultures)
Sitting in one of Seville’s most charming neighbourhoods, Bar Alfalfa mixes Andalusian tapas with touches of Italian and Mediterranean flavours. It’s tiny, warm, and always lively, a favourite stop for locals after work.
Fun Local Fact: Because of its size, Alfalfa is famous for “the art of the standing tapas”, locals squeeze in anywhere, creating one of the friendliest atmospheres in the city.
What to order: Tomato bruschetta, jamón, crostini.
Why go: Cozy, intimate, and full of local life.
Tapas Tips To Eat Like a Local:
Stand at the bar if you can — it’s the true experience.
Tapear (bar hop): 1–2 tapas per bar, then move on.
Order drinks first, then tapas, many bars prioritise service this way.
Try iconic dishes like: pringá, espinacas con garbanzos, fried fish, tortilla, grilled prawns.
Go between 8–9 PM, to avoid the huge dinner rush at 10 PM.
Final Thoughts:
Seville’s tapas bars aren’t just places to eat, they’re the heartbeat of the city. Each of these five authentic spots offers a unique slice of Sevillano culture, from centuries-old taverns to modern neighbourhood favourites.
Whether you’re sipping orange wine, biting into a perfect pringá, or soaking in the energy of a crowded bar, you’ll feel the real Seville in every moment.