7 Hidden Foodie Gems in Spain You Must Try in 2026

1. Casa Toni – A Rustic Catalan Feast in Barcelona

Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 19, 08011 Barcelona

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 1:30 PM–3:30 PM, 8:30 PM–11 PM; Sunday 1:30 PM–3:30 PM; Closed Monday

Tucked away in Barcelona’s Eixample district, Casa Toni is one of the best hidden tapas bars in Spain for 2026 foodies. This family-run fondue has been serving traditional Catalan dishes since 1963, offering an authentic taste of local Spanish cuisine.

The star here is the escudella i carn d’olla, a hearty Catalan stew that’s a must-try for anyone exploring underrated Spanish food markets. Pair it with their pa amb tomàquet for a true Barcelona food experience.

Pro Tip: Visit for lunch to enjoy the midday menu at around €15 and mingle with locals who’ve been coming here for decades.

2. El Pescador – Fresh Seafood in Cádiz

Address: Calle San Francisco, 9, 11004 Cádiz

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 1 PM–4 PM, 8 PM–11 PM; Closed Monday

For seafood lovers, El Pescador is one of the top hidden seafood restaurants in coastal Spain for 2026. Located in Cádiz, this no-frills joint serves the freshest catch, including their famous pescaíto frito and atún de almadraba.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the tortillitas de camarones and pair your meal with a glass of fino sherry for the perfect coastal dining experience.

3. La Bodega de Santiago – Sherry & Tapas in Jerez

Address: Calle Santiago, 12, 11403 Jerez de la Frontera

Hours: Monday–Saturday 12 PM–4 PM, 8 PM–12 AM; Closed Sunday

Jerez’s La Bodega de Santiago is a secret gem for Spanish wine and food pairings in 2026. This historic bodega offers an authentic sherry experience with tapas like berenjenas con miel and huevos a la flamenca.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when locals gather for a lively atmosphere and try the adventurous ortiguillas (fried sea anemones).

4. Casa Lucio – Legendary Huevos Rotos in Madrid

Address: Calle Cava Baja, 35, 28005 Madrid

Hours: Monday–Sunday 1 PM–4 PM, 8:30 PM–12 AM

Madrid’s Casa Lucio is famous for its huevos rotos, a must-try dish for anyone exploring local Spanish dishes in 2026. Located on the iconic Cava Baja street, this spot is a favorite among tapas lovers.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid long waits and don’t skip their sopa de ajo, a comforting garlic soup.

5. Asador Etxebarri – Fire-Cooked Perfection in Basque Country

Address: San Juan, 1, 48291 Axpe, Bizkaia

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 1:30 PM–3:30 PM, 8:30 PM–10:30 PM; Closed Sunday and Monday

For a unique Michelin-starred experience, Asador Etxebarri is one of the secret restaurants in Spain for 2026. Chef Victor Arguinzoniz masters fire-cooked dishes like the legendary txuleta and delicate huevos con txangurro.

Pro Tip: Book months in advance and try the angulas (baby eels) for a true Basque delicacy.

6. Bar Casa Julio – Madrid’s Best Tortilla

Address: Calle de la Madre, 2, 28004 Madrid

Hours: Monday–Friday 11 AM–4 PM, 8 PM–12 AM; Saturday 11 AM–4 PM; Closed Sunday

Bar Casa Julio is a must-visit for traditional Spanish churros and the best tortilla in Madrid. This standing-room-only bar has been serving its legendary tortilla española since 1921.

Pro Tip: Order a caña (small beer) and stand at the bar for the full local experience.

7. Can Solé – Centuries of Seafood Tradition in Barcelona

Address: Carrer de Sant Carles, 4, 08003 Barcelona

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 1 PM–4 PM, 8 PM–11 PM; Closed Monday

Since 1903, Can Solé has been a staple among authentic paella spots in Barcelona. This family-run restaurant in Barceloneta serves seafood classics like suquet de peix and arroz negro.

Pro Tip: End your meal with crema catalana, a Catalan twist on crème brûlée.