Tapas in Toulouse
Toulouse is a French city with a rich Spanish influence, which means there are plenty of quality eateries where you can find bold Iberian flavors. This unique fusion stems from Toulouse’s geographical proximity to Spain – in fact, it’s closer to Spain than Paris – and the historical influx of immigrants as a result of the Spanish Civil War.
Once the base for Spain’s Republican government-in-exile, Toulouse’s Spanish roots run deep, influencing its vibrant terrace culture and culinary scene. Generations of residents with Spanish heritage have shaped the city’s gastronomy, making it one of France’s best cities for tapas and pintxos lovers.
In case you were wondering what the difference is, apas are small Spanish dishes served as snacks, while pintxos are similar but typically skewered with a toothpick and originate specifically from the Basque region of Spain — our choices will mainly deal with tapas, but you’ll also find some places with Basque influence here as well.
This blog aims to share some of our favorite places to eat tapas in Toulouse. If we leave you feeling inspired, why not join our culinary experts on one of our Toulouse Food Tours?
(Source: L’Oreille Cassé)
L’Oreille Cassé
L’Oreille Cassé, a unique tapas bar in Toulouse, offers a blend of culinary delight and sign language learning. Run by two deaf partners, it presents a menu of homemade tapas like chorizo empanadas, beetroot hummus, and patatas bravas.
The establishment stands for its innovative approach to dining and communication. Here, ordering is done in sign language or by lip reading, an experience enhanced by sign language clips and the staff’s commitment to teaching guests. This bar has further plans to host art exhibitions and sign language theater.
⭑ L’Oreille Cassé, 22 Rue des Blanchers, 31000 Toulouse
(Source: A Taula)
A Taula
At A Taula, diners get to sample the classic flavors of Spain and South West France with an array of delightful small plates. Nestled in a historic urban mansion turned Occitan cultural center, this tapas bar exudes authentic Toulousain charm.
“A Taula,” meaning “To the table” in Occitan, perfectly captures the spirit of communal dining. Its shaded stone courtyard offers an ideal setting for a relaxing drink and tantalizing bites, making it a quintessential spot to experience the vibrant local ambiance.
⭑ A Taula, 11 Rue Malcousinat, 31000 Toulouse
Le Petit San Seb
Discover Le Petit San Seb, a gem in Toulouse’s bustling Victor Hugo district, where the flavors of Spanish Basque country come alive. Specializing in “pintxos,” this restaurant offers a weekly-changing market cuisine for lunch and an array of tapas and pintxos in the evening.
Complement your meal with selections from an extensive wine list featuring over 50 bottles and 20 wines by the glass in a lively, authentic atmosphere that celebrates the Basque culinary heritage.
⭑ Le Petit San Seb, 6 Rue du Rem Villeneuve, 31000 Toulouse
Boca Dos
At Boca Dos, you can enjoy a refreshing take on classic brunch and casual dining fare. This charming spot is renowned for its Spanish-style bocadillos, offering a selection of over fifty mini baguette options!
Combine these flavorful sandwiches with locally made yogurt and excellent coffee for a delightful start to your weekend. The trendy atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and friendly staff make Boca an ideal destination for a flavorsome tapas-style lunch with friends.
⭑ Boca Dos, 54 Rue Peyrolières, 31000 Toulouse
(Source: Chez Rosa)
Chez Rosa
Located in Toulouse’s Carme district, Chez Rosa is a charming tapas bar that captures something of the spirit of Barcelona. Offering an authentic Catalan atmosphere, guests can enjoy classics like hand-prepared croquetas, reminiscent of those found in Barcelona.
Open late, the bar also features Spanish and Cuban music, with plans for themed fancy-dress parties, adding to its lively and inviting atmosphere. Rosa’s commitment to bringing a slice of Barcelona to Toulouse is evident in every detail.
⭑ Chez Rosa, 48 Rue Pharaon, 31000 Toulouse
Between the sign language immersion at L’Oreille Cassé, the authentic Catalan vibe of Chez Rosa, and the popular pintxos at Le Petit San Seb, it’s plain to see that Toulouse is home to a vibrant Spanish food and tapas scene.
Whether you’re craving a traditional tapas experience or something more quirky, these venues promise delightful evenings packed with flavor, culture, and welcoming vibes.
If you’re dedicated to exploring the very best that Toulouse has to offer, we’re sure you’ll enjoy our Toulouse Wine Bar Tour where we spend an evening together drinking local wines in some of the city’s best bars while developing your wine-tasting skills and vocabulary.
Any questions? Get in touch.
