A small, packed tapas bar in Alicante's old town known for its generous free tapas with every drink order, in true Andalusian style. A favourite with locals.
El Granaino is a small, packed, and perpetually lively tapas bar in Alicante's Barrio de Santa Cruz — the historic old town that climbs the hill below the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. The bar has built a loyal following over many years for one simple and powerful proposition: every drink ordered comes accompanied by a free tapa, in the generous Andalusian tradition practised in Granada. This means that a table ordering a round of beers will receive plates of boquerones en vinagre (white anchovies in vinegar and olive oil), patatas alioli, croquetas, or whatever the kitchen has prepared that day — without additional charge. The tapas change daily and are prepared to a standard well above what might be expected given the price. The bar itself is narrow, loud, and full of the particular energy that comes from a genuinely local neighbourhood bar that has not been packaged for tourism. It attracts a mix of Alicante locals — regulars who have been coming for years alongside younger residents who have discovered it through word of mouth. The area around El Granaino, with its whitewashed lanes, ceramic flower pots, and proximity to the castle lift, is one of the most atmospheric in Alicante. No reservations are accepted. The bar is open Monday through Saturday for morning, lunch, and evening service.
Good to know
- Reservations
- Not accepted
Location
C/ Juan de Herrera, 10, 03002 Alicante
Highlights
- Free tapas with every drink order in the Andalusian Granada tradition — generous and genuine
- Boquerones en vinagre, patatas alioli, and rotating daily tapas at no extra cost
- Packed, loud, and authentically local — not designed for tourists
- Historic Barrio de Santa Cruz location below the Castillo de Santa Bárbara
- One of the most honest-value eating-and-drinking experiences in Alicante
Tips for visiting
- The free tapas change daily — ask what is available rather than expecting specific dishes.
- Order drinks steadily to keep the tapas arriving; each new round triggers a fresh plate.
- The bar fills quickly after opening; arriving at opening time ensures the best space.
- The Castillo de Santa Bárbara lift is a short walk away — a natural combination with a visit.
- Cash is advisable for bars of this type; confirm whether cards are accepted before ordering.
Accessibility
El Granaino is in the Barrio de Santa Cruz, where the streets are narrow and steeply inclined in places. The bar entrance is at street level but the surrounding neighbourhood involves significant gradients unsuitable for wheelchair users. The bar interior is compact and standing-room dominated during busy hours.
Frequently asked questions
Does El Granaino really give free tapas with drinks?
Yes. Following the tradition of Granada (hence the name 'Granaino'), the bar serves a free tapa with each round of drinks ordered. The tapas change daily and are prepared in-house.
What tapas are typically served for free?
The daily tapas rotate but typically include preparations such as boquerones en vinagre (marinated white anchovies), patatas alioli, croquetas, ensaladilla rusa, or simple marinated vegetables. The selection is chosen by the kitchen each day.
Is El Granaino a good place for a full meal?
The bar is designed for drinks with tapas rather than a structured meal. The free tapas are generous enough to constitute a light lunch or early-evening snack alongside drinks, but it is not a sit-down dinner restaurant.
Is it necessary to reserve?
No reservations are accepted. El Granaino is a walk-in bar only. Arriving early is the best strategy for finding space, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.