Cabezo de Torres (pronounced kah-BEH-thoh deh TOR-res) is a residential pedania just north of the city centre. The tapas scene here is authentic, family-friendly, and affordable. You won't find fancy fusion, just solid local food and drinks.
The Tapas Scene
Cabezo de Torres is a proper neighbourhood. People live here, work here, and go out here. The tapas bars are mostly along Calle Mayor and the surrounding streets.
The atmosphere is relaxed and local. You'll see families with kids, groups of friends, and older couples. It's not a party zone – more like a place to catch up over a beer and some snacks.
Prices are lower than in central Murcia. Most tapas cost €2-€4. A caña (small beer) is around €1.50. Many places still do the old-school thing where you get a free tapa with your drink.
Best Tapas Bars
Bar El Rincón
€The classic neighbourhood bar. They give you a free tapa with every drink – usually something simple like olives or chips. Try their pipirrana (tomato, pepper, and onion salad) or the morcilla (blood sausage). Address: Calle Mayor 45.
Mesón El Abuelo
€€A proper mesón (tavern) that's been around for decades. Their specialty is grilled meats. Order the secreto ibérico (Iberian pork cut) or the pinchitos (small skewers). Good wine selection too. Address: Calle San Antonio 12.
Taberna La Esquina
€Always busy, especially on weekends. They have a long counter with dozens of tapas displayed. Go for the croquetas (croquettes) or the ensaladilla rusa (Russian salad). Address: Plaza de la Constitución 3.
Bar Deportivo
€Don't let the name fool you – it's a tapas bar with TVs. The cheapest beers in the area. Their tortilla española (Spanish omelette) is solid. Address: Avenida de la Libertad 28.
Cervecería El Puerto
€€A bit fancier than the others. Focus on seafood tapas like boquerones (anchovies) and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). Good for a slightly more upscale meal. Address: Calle del Puerto 7.
Local Tips
Evenings from 8pm onwards are best. Weekends are busier but have more atmosphere. Lunchtime tapas (around 2pm) is quieter.
Many bars here still follow the old Murcian tradition: order a drink, get a free tapa. It's usually simple – don't expect a gourmet plate. If you want something specific, order and pay for it.
English isn't widely spoken in these bars. Learn a few basics: "caña" for small beer, "vino" for wine, "tapa" for snack. Pointing at what you want works fine.