Forget fancy fusion. Here you get generous portions of local dishes, served in historic bars where the focus is on flavour, not Instagram. Try the morcilla de Cehegín (blood sausage) – it's what locals eat.
The Tapas Scene
Cehegín's tapas bars are mostly in the historic centre, a maze of narrow streets with stone buildings. This isn't a tourist trap – it's where locals go after work.
The atmosphere is relaxed and social. You'll see groups standing outside with drinks, families at tables, and older men at the bar. It's loud but friendly.
Prices are reasonable. Most tapas cost €2-€4, with premium options up to €5. Drinks are cheap – a caña (small beer) is around €1.50. Many places still do the old-school thing: free tapa with your drink.
Best Tapas Bars
Bar El Rincón
€Tiny bar with standing room only. Their morcilla de Cehegín is the real deal – grilled and served with bread. Also try the patatas bravas (spicy potatoes). Address: Calle Mayor 12, Cehegín.
La Taberna del Vino
€€More upscale but still casual. Great selection of Murcian wines. Order the secreto ibérico (Iberian pork) and croquetas de jamón (ham croquettes). Address: Plaza del Castillo 5, Cehegín.
Mesón El Labrador
€Wooden beams and ham legs hanging from the ceiling. Go for the migas (fried breadcrumbs with pork) and pisto murciano (ratatouille). Address: Calle San Sebastián 8, Cehegín.
Bar La Plaza
€Big terrace on the main square. Good for groups. Try the ensalada murciana (tomato and onion salad) and calamares a la romana (fried squid). Address: Plaza de España 3, Cehegín.
Cervecería El Toro
€No-frills spot with good draft beer. The tortilla española (Spanish omelette) is thick and tasty. Also order the boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar). Address: Calle del Sol 15, Cehegín.
Local Tips
Evenings from 8pm are busiest. Weekends are lively but crowded. Many bars close between 4-7pm for siesta, so check times.
Say "una caña" for a small beer, "un vino" for house wine. Tapas are often called "raciones" here – bigger portions to share. Don't be shy to ask what's fresh.
Many smaller bars only take cash. Bring euros – ATMs are around but not always nearby. Cards are accepted in the more modern places.