Boadas

Boadas is one of Barcelona’s most iconic cocktail bars — a timeless gem located just steps from Las Ramblas. Revered for its old-school elegance and refined atmosphere, this bar offers a window into the golden age of classic cocktails. With bartenders in bow ties and a devotion to precision, Boadas remains a bastion of sophistication and understated charm. It’s a place where every cocktail is crafted with tradition, grace, and a touch of theatrical flair.

History & Concept

Founded in 1933 by Cuban-born bartender Miguel Boadas, the bar is deeply rooted in the legacy of classic cocktail culture. Miguel, who once worked at the legendary El Floridita in Havana, brought a Cuban spirit and a European sensibility to Barcelona, creating a cocktail institution that has survived political upheaval, cultural shifts, and evolving trends. The concept has remained unchanged for nearly a century: classic drinks, meticulous technique, and warm hospitality.

Design & Atmosphere

Boadas exudes timeless elegance with its narrow, wood-paneled interior, dim lighting, and art deco details. The bar itself is a work of art — intimate, polished, and perfectly suited for cocktail performances by the bartenders who shake with practiced flair. There are no gimmicks here, just the soft murmur of conversation, the rhythmic clatter of shakers, and the glow of tradition. It’s a space that evokes another era without feeling outdated.

Boadas Menu

The Boadas menu is a celebration of the classics — from dry Martinis to smooth Manhattans — all made with impeccable balance and finesse. The bar doesn’t rely on written menus; instead, bartenders ask about your preferences and create a tailor-made cocktail on the spot. This old-world hospitality, paired with technical excellence, is the hallmark of the Boadas menu.

Cocktail Menu

• Dry Martini. Their signature, served ice-cold with just the right whisper of vermouth. Elegant and potent.
• Negroni. Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth stirred into perfect harmony.
• Boadas Special. A house invention, often citrus-forward with a balanced bittersweet finish — recipe varies with the season.
• Clover Club. Gin, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white — velvety and tart.
• Whiskey Sour. Bourbon, lemon, sugar, and egg white — creamy, balanced, and rich.

Food Menu

Boadas does not offer a full food menu, staying true to its roots as a cocktail-only destination. Light snacks such as olives, almonds, or small tapas may be served complimentary with drinks, but this is a bar dedicated first and foremost to the craft of the cocktail.

Price Level

Boadas remains affordable compared to many modern mixology bars, with classic cocktails typically priced between €9 and €12. The value lies not in extravagance but in consistency, craftsmanship, and the historic ambiance that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

Awards & Recognition

As one of Europe’s oldest continuously operating cocktail bars, Boadas has earned legendary status in the world of bartending. It is frequently cited by cocktail historians, featured in travel and gastronomy publications, and regarded as a rite of passage for bartenders and cocktail lovers alike. While it doesn’t chase awards, its reputation is firmly cemented through decades of quiet excellence.

Opening Hours & Guest Policy

• Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Sunday: Closed

The bar welcomes walk-ins and tends to fill up in the evenings. It caters to locals, tourists, and industry professionals alike, maintaining a respectful, calm, and elegant vibe. Guests are encouraged to dress smart casual, and large groups are not typical due to the bar’s intimate layout.

Reservations

Boadas operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not required and are typically not accepted, in keeping with its spontaneous, conversational approach to service. Arriving earlier in the evening is recommended for those seeking a quieter, more personal experience.

Why Visit?

Visiting Boadas is like stepping into cocktail history. This is not a bar for flashy Instagram moments or molecular theatrics — it’s for those who appreciate tradition, subtlety, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re a cocktail purist or simply in search of authentic atmosphere, Boadas offers a rare and rewarding glimpse into a timeless world of hospitality.