Bar Carmela

Bar Carmela sits cozy on Calle Santa María la Blanca, anchoring one corner of Sevilla’s charming Casco Antiguo. More a tapas bar than a sit-down restaurant, it’s where locals and visitors alike come to snap up quick bites and drinks without fuss. The narrow interior feels intimate but most gatherings spill out onto the pavements where you can soak in the buzz of the old town.

The menu leans heavily into classic Andalusian tapas — think croquetas, papas bravas, and Iberian ham — along with some crowd-pleasers like salmon tartare with avocado and fried squid. Portions are modest, designed for sharing and tasting rather than a full meal. People tend to time visits around lunch or early evening, grabbing a few plates and a glass of tinto de verano or vermouth while watching the world pass by in the square. Service here moves briskly and with a smile, which fits the unpretentious vibe.

There’s a relaxed, everyday energy to Bar Carmela that makes it well-suited for casual stops rather than extended dinners. The outdoor tables get lively, especially in the afternoons or early evenings when the sunshine softens and the square fills with locals taking a break from their day. Inside, the space is small and cozy but often less favored than the terrace seating. While not every dish wows equally — with some tapas more memorable than others — the variety and straightforward approach make it convenient for groups with mixed tastes.

Visitors who lean toward simple, traditional tapas with good company and a lively street view will find Bar Carmela fitting. It’s not a place for quiet, lingering meals but rather quick, flavorful nibbles paired with a refreshing drink amid the easy rhythm of Sevilla’s old quarter.