##Tapas have been the ultimate staple of Spanish cuisine for centuries. Whether they are hot or cold, sweet or savoury, served by themselves or combined to make a full meal, tapas have more recently expanded to incorporate a wide dimension of palates, cultures and hold a great significance in restaurant,  ranging in sophisticated to casual dining.

 In Valencia, tapas take on a heavy importance in somehow representing and serving locals and tourists alike, simultaneously welcoming people from all around the world and teaching them the tapas way of life.

 The following list is a few tapas bars and restaurants across the city that keep the tapas scene in Valencia refreshing and lively, with eclectic, traditional and fun twists.

EL CAMERINO TABERNA

 Located in the bustling barrio of Ruzafa, this tapas hot spot offers affordable, family-style cuisine and is perfect for a group outing. The menu includes a wide selection of traditional things like croquetas and patatas, but also includes some other things such as lovely roasted vegetables, stuffed peppers, and swordfish.

 C/ Mossèn Femenia, 16,

Zona Ruzafa

Valencia

Phone: 658 61 76 25

Menu: elcamerinoruzafa.com

 La FABrica

 What makes La FABrica stand out from the rest is not only its antique, unique ambiance, but its delicious selection of late-night tapas and drinks as well. This hidden gem is perfect to check out if you are craving mini burgers or potato wedges after a couple drinks! The music and friendly staff also contribute to the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.

C/ Cristo del Grao, 14

Zona Puerto

Valencia

Phone: 665 50 45 50

Menu: http://lafabricarte.es

 TINTO FINO ULTRAMARINO

 With Italian and Mediterranean inspired tapas and a wide, delicious selection of wine, Tinto Fino Ultramino is a spot one cannot miss when exploring the full tapas in Valencia experience.

C/ Corretgeria, 38,

Zona Carmen

Valencia

Phone: 963 15 45 99

Menu: http://www.tintofinoultramarino.com/en/

 MERCATBAR

Located in the cosmopolitan Cánovas and owned by multi-Michelin-starred chef, Quique Dacosta, this tapas bar offers gastronomic influenced versions of fresh and traditional tapas. This restaurant features oysters, bull tail, pastry “air bags.” While this style of cuisine might not be for the faint of heart, every bite is definitely worth every cent put towards such a sophisticated, Spanish meal.

C/ Joaquín Costa, 27,

Zona Cánovas

Valencia

Phone: 963 74 85 58

Menu: mercatbar.es

Text by Sarah Medrano