Jamón-hung, azulejo-tiled tapas bar in the heart of Santa Cruz that somehow manages to stay authentic despite the tourist hordes. The montaditos are piled high with quality jamón, lomo, and manchego, the walls are decorated with bullfighting memorabilia, and the bartenders move with the speed and precision of Formula 1 pit crews. It's touristy, yes, but locals still come because the food is good, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is warm. Sometimes the classics earn their reputation.
Location
Santa Cruz, Sevilla
Insider Intel
Montadito de jamón ibérico (the house specialty), solomillo al whisky, and a glass of Rioja. Add espinacas con garbanzos if you want something more substantial.
Early evening (6-8pm) before the dinner rush, or late evening (10-11pm) when the energy picks up and you can snag a spot at the bar.
It gets crowded, so be patient. Service is efficient but not overly friendly—they're moving fast. Cash is preferred. And yes, there will be tourists, but the food is still solid.