Madrid exists and is defined by constant change, even more so in the last five years, but there are still little pockets where you can grab an affordable tapa in Lavapiés.
More than 20 bars and restaurants in the neighborhood are joining together to celebrate World Tapas Day 2026 from Tuesday, June 16, to Sunday, June 21. The tour, coordinated by the local merchants’ and restaurant owners’ association, transforms this traditional and multicultural neighborhood into a low-cost tapas paradise, with offerings ranging from grandma’s recipes to international versions with a Lavapiés twist.
Each participating establishment offers at least one croquette (or croquette-style tapa) for€1.50 each, designed so you can hop from bar to bar without breaking the bank. In many cases, the croquette comes with a small side dish or is part of a slightly more elaborate tapa, but the promotional price remains the same.
During those days, simply look for the campaign posters on doors and counters or check the list of participating venues on the neighborhood’s official website (enlavapies.com) to plan your own tour.
The most traditional (and multicultural) Lavapiés at the bar
Although Lavapiés is now synonymous with cultural diversity, the croquette route keeps one foot firmly in traditional Madrid: many of the participating bars are old-school taverns, such as Café Barbieri, La Chulapa de Mayrit, or La Buga, with their legendary beer taps, draft vermouth, and tiles on the walls. The ham croquette still reigns supreme, but it coexists with more contemporary offerings from gastropubs and fusion cuisine restaurants.
But newcomers to the neighborhood have also joined in and are being very well received, such as Darbuka Bar, which is presenting its own version: a bulgur and ground beef fritter stuffed with onion and spices.
