Five bars from Barcelona have made it to the inaugural Europe’s 50 Best Bars list, showcasing the city's vibrant cocktail culture. Notably, Andrea Civettini has been named Spain's best bartender.
In a remarkable display of mixology talent, five bars from Barcelona have secured spots in the first edition of Europe’s 50 Best Bars, unveiled at a gala in Amsterdam. Leading the charge is Sips, which clinched the third position, followed closely by Paradiso at ninth. Other notable mentions include Aldea at 26th, 14 De La Rosa at 35th, and Boadas, which ranked 36th. Madrid also made its mark with two entries: Angelita at 45th and Salmon Guru at 46th.
This prestigious ranking highlights the growing prominence of Barcelona on the global cocktail stage, second only to London, which boasts seven establishments on the list. The top honor went to Line, located in Athens, Greece. This bar is renowned for its innovative cocktails that utilize fermentation techniques and a philosophy of sustainability.
The recognition extends beyond just bars; it also celebrates individual talent within the industry. Andrea Civettini, head bartender at La Dama in Barcelona, has been crowned as Spain’s best bartender after winning the European final of the esteemed World Class competition. At just 30 years old, Civettini will represent Spain in the upcoming world finals set to take place in Scotland this October.
Civettini’s journey began humbly when he started washing glasses at Paradiso before moving on to open his own bar, Galileo, in 2020. Today he leads La Dama’s cocktail program situated within Casa Sayrach—a modernist architectural gem on Diagonal Avenue.
Civettini showcased his skills through a series of challenges including a blind tasting of vodka and whiskies and recreating four previously served cocktails using only one glass.
The competition tested not only his palate but also his creativity under pressure. He crafted a refreshing long drink called Open Waters featuring whisky infused with paprika and Sauternes wine—drawing inspiration from Paulo Coelho’s quote about safety versus adventure.
This achievement underscores Barcelona’s status as a culinary hotspot where innovation meets tradition. The city continues to attract both locals and tourists eager to explore its rich gastronomic offerings.
The rise of these establishments reflects broader trends within Europe’s drinking culture that emphasize quality ingredients and artisanal techniques. As more cities embrace craft cocktails, Barcelona stands out for its unique blend of flavors and styles.
If you’re looking to experience these award-winning bars firsthand or sample Civettini’s creations before he heads off to Scotland, reservations are highly recommended due to their popularity among both locals and visitors alike. For those planning a visit soon, be sure to check out Sips or Paradiso for an unforgettable evening filled with expertly crafted drinks.
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