The search for the best tapas in Gdansk should start with places that offer the most authentic Spanish culinary experience. The first of these is undoubtedly Patio Español, located in the heart of the city's historic center. This restaurant is a real gem for lovers of Iberian flavors, founded by Spanish cuisine enthusiasts who decided to bring a piece of their homeland to the Motlawa River.

Patio Español stands out not only for its menu, but also for its unique interior design, which resembles a traditional Andalusian patio - hence the restaurant's name. The walls are decorated with characteristic Spanish azulejos tiles, and the sounds of flamenco can be heard in the background. The restaurant is especially famous for its wide range of tapas, among which beef carpaccio, shrimp in spicy garlic oil and chorizo with chili are particularly noteworthy. For those who prefer tasting together, Patio Español offers cold and hot tapas boards for two, which are a perfect introduction to the world of Spanish flavors. Prices at the establishment can be described as average, which, combined with the high quality of the food and the authentic atmosphere, makes this place very attractive.

Another place that deserves attention is Hora de España. This restaurant, located on the Jagiellonian Embankment, is a true enclave of Spanish culinary culture. The restaurant was created on the initiative of a Spaniard who decided to share the richness of the flavors of his region with the people of Gdansk. The history of the place dates back to 2012, when the owner, fascinated by Gdansk and its openness to new culinary experiences, decided to open a restaurant offering authentic Spanish dishes.

Hora de España specializes in classic tapas, such as tortilla española (Spanish omelet with potatoes), patatas bravas (potatoes in a spicy sauce), and gambas al ajillo (shrimp in garlic oil). Each of these dishes is prepared according to traditional recipes, using original Spanish ingredients. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Spanish wines, including sherry, which go perfectly with the appetizers served. Prices at Hora de España are slightly higher than at Patio Español, but the quality of the food and the authenticity of the experience fully compensate for this.

When comparing the two establishments, it's worth noting that Patio Español offers a slightly more modern approach to tapas, combining traditional recipes with modern culinary techniques, while Hora de España focuses primarily on authenticity and fidelity to tradition. However, both places share a passion for Spanish cuisine and culture, which translates into the unique culinary experiences they offer their guests.

Gdansk, as a port city with a rich commercial history, has always been a place where different cultures and traditions intersected. This multiculturalism is also reflected in the local gastronomic scene, where we are increasingly encountering places that fuse different cuisines of the world. Tapas establishments offering tapas with elements of other culinary traditions are an excellent example of such fusion.

Hola Tapas, located on Piwna Street, is a place that combines the traditions of Spanish and Mexican cuisine. The restaurant was founded in 2015 on the initiative of a traveler who fell in love with the culinary culture of both countries and decided to create a place where he could share his experiences with others. The history of the place is fascinating - the owner traveled around Spain and Mexico for several years, learning from local chefs and collecting recipes, which he later incorporated into the menu of his restaurant.

At Hola Tapas, we can enjoy both classic Spanish tapas and Mexican snacks, such as cochinita pibil (a traditional dish from Yucatán) or guacamole prepared in front of guests' eyes. Particularly recommended are tapas that combine elements of both cuisines, such as tacos with chorizo or quesadillas with manchego. The restaurant is also famous for its excellent cocktails, including, of course, sangrias and margaritas. Prices at Hola Tapas can be described as average, while the friendly atmosphere and professional service make it an ideal place to meet friends.

Another interesting place is Pueblo, which is located on Kolodziejska Street in the heart of the Old Town. This Mexican restaurant, although mainly associated with Mexican cuisine, also offers a wide selection of tapas inspired by Spanish and Latin American cuisine. Pueblo was established in 2017 and has quickly gained recognition among Gdansk residents and tourists.

Pueblo's menu features both classic Mexican dishes and tapas with distinct Spanish influences. Of particular note are nachos with guacamole, quesadillas with various fillings and albondigas (Spanish meatballs in tomato sauce). The restaurant also offers a wide selection of tequila and mezcal, which are interesting alternatives to the traditional Spanish wines served with tapas. Prices at Pueblo are similar to those at Hola Tapas, but the establishment stands out for its more modern decor and greater emphasis on Mexican cuisine.

JUNGLA Cocktails & Food is another place that deserves attention. Located in the modern Forum Gdansk complex, it offers tapas inspired by the cuisine of different regions of the world. JUNGLA was established relatively recently, in 2019, but has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to gastronomy and unique interior design inspired by the tropical jungle.

JUNGLA's menu features tapas that combine elements of Spanish, Asian and Latin American cuisine. Particularly recommended are shrimp in tempura with aioli sauce, pulled pork tacos and Baltic cod ceviche. The restaurant is also famous for its creative cocktails, which go perfectly with the appetizers served. Prices at JUNGLA are slightly higher than at the other places described, but the exceptional dining experience and atmosphere fully compensate for this.

Comparing the three establishments, it is worth noting that each offers a slightly different approach to the tapas concept. Hola Tapas focuses on a fusion of Spanish and Mexican cuisine, Pueblo focuses primarily on Mexican cuisine with Spanish elements, and JUNGLA offers the most eclectic menu, drawing inspiration from various corners of the world. What all these places have in common, however, is the idea of feasting together and sharing food, which is the essence of tapas culture.

Beyond the most well-known tapas establishments, there are also places in and around Gdansk that are less obvious, but equally fascinating, which deserve the attention of true connoisseurs of Spanish cuisine and culture. These hidden gems often offer the most authentic experience, combining traditional flavors with a unique atmosphere.

Tapas de Rucola, located in neighboring Sopot on General Kazimierz Pulaski Street, is a place that combines the traditions of Spanish and Italian cuisine. This small, cozy establishment was created by a pair of travelers who fell in love with the culinary culture of the Mediterranean and decided to bring a piece of it to the Coast. The history of the place dates back to 2014, when the owners, after spending several years in Spain and Italy, decided to return to Poland and open a place that would reflect their culinary passions.

The Tapas de Rucola menu features both classic Spanish tapas and Italian antipasti. Of particular note are the bruschetta with various toppings, beef tenderloin carpaccio and a selection of Spanish and Italian cheeses and cured meats. The restaurant is also famous for its excellent wines, carefully selected to match the dishes served. Prices at Tapas de Rucola can be described as average to high, but the quality of the products and the unique atmosphere fully compensate for this. It is worth mentioning that the establishment is a bit far from the main tourist routes, which makes it a place visited mainly by locals and true connoisseurs.

Another fascinating place is Bacca Wine Bar, located on Angielska Grobla Street in Gdansk. Although, as the name suggests, it is primarily a wine bar, the establishment also offers excellent tapas, which go perfectly with the extensive wine selection. Bacca Wine Bar was established in 2016 on the initiative of a sommelier, who decided to create a place where wine lovers could enjoy their favorite spirits accompanied by excellent snacks.

Bacca Wine Bar's menu features carefully selected tapas, including montaditos (small sandwiches with various toppings), a selection of Spanish cheeses and cured meats, and olives marinated according to traditional recipes. The restaurant specializes in wines from various regions of Spain, including lesser-known appellations, an added attraction for true connoisseurs. Prices at Bacca Wine Bar are higher than at most of the places described, but the exceptional wine selection and intimate atmosphere make it a place worth visiting.

Comparing all the described establishments, it is worth noting the differences in their character and offerings. Patio Español and Hora de España are the most traditional places, offering an authentic Spanish experience. Hola Tapas, Pueblo and JUNGLA are establishments that combine different culinary traditions, offering a more eclectic menu. Tapas de Rucola and Bacca Wine Bar, on the other hand, are places for true connoisseurs, focusing on quality products and unique taste experiences.

As for prices, the cheapest options can be found at Pueblo and Hola Tapas, where you'll pay around 50-70 zlotys for a set of several tapas. Patio Español and Hora de España offer slightly higher prices, between 70-100 zloty for a similar set. The most expensive are Bacca Wine Bar and JUNGLA, where prices can exceed 100 zloty, but in these places we pay not only for the food, but also for the unique experience and atmosphere.

It is also worth noting the availability of seats - establishments such as Patio Español and Hola Tapas, due to their popularity and central location, often require advance reservations, especially on weekends and during the tourist season. Tapas de Rucola and Bacca Wine Bar, being less obvious and located off the main tourist routes, tend to be more easily accessible, an added benefit for those who appreciate a quieter atmosphere.

Regardless of the place chosen, a tapas tasting in Gdansk is an excellent opportunity to explore the richness of Spanish culinary culture and experience the tradition of communal feasting that is an integral part of it. Each of the described places offers a unique experience that will long remain in the memory of even the most demanding gourmets.