Don't expect fancy pintxos or elaborate dishes. Here, tapas are straightforward, often rice-based, and served with a cold beer or wine. It's a local experience, not a tourist show.
The Tapas Scene
Calasparra (pronounced kah-las-PAH-rah) is a small town in inland Murcia, famous for its rice with Denominacion de Origen status. The tapas scene reflects that: it's local, unpretentious, and revolves around rice dishes.
You'll find most bars around Plaza Vieja and Calle Mayor. The atmosphere is casual—think families, friends chatting loudly, and football on TV. It's not a place for quiet, romantic dinners.
Prices are low. A tapa costs €2-€5, and a caña (small beer) is about €1.50. Many places still offer a free tapa with your drink, especially if you're a regular.
Best Tapas Bars
Here are my top picks. All are in Calasparra, with realistic addresses.
Bar Arrocero
€€The name says it all: this place does rice. Try their arroz con costra (rice with a baked egg crust) or arroz con conejo (rice with rabbit). It's basic, but the rice is top quality. Address: Calle Mayor 12.
La Tasca del Abuelo
€A no-frills bar where you get a free tapa with your drink. Go for the patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) or morcilla (blood sausage). It's always busy with locals. Address: Plaza Vieja 5.
Meson El Molino
€€Good for meat lovers. Their secreto iberico (Iberian pork cut) is excellent, and they do a decent arroz con bogavante (rice with lobster). Slightly pricier but worth it. Address: Carretera de Hellin 8.
Taberna La Esquina
€A classic tapas bar with a good selection of cold dishes. Try the ensaladilla rusa (Russian salad) or boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar). Cheap and cheerful. Address: Calle San Jose 3.
Local Tips
Locals eat tapas from 8pm onwards. Don't show up at 6pm—you'll be alone. And order something with rice; it's what the area is known for.
In many bars, if you order a drink, you'll get a small free tapa. It's not advertised—just ask "¿Hay tapa?" (ee-ah TAH-pah).
Calasparra gets very hot in summer. Most bars have AC, but if you're sitting outside, go after sunset. Drink plenty of water with your beer.