Forget fancy presentations. Here you get generous portions of traditional dishes, often with a free tapa when you order a drink. It's where locals go to catch up, not to Instagram their food.
The Tapas Scene
Mula's tapas scene is concentrated around the old town, especially near Plaza del Ayuntamiento and the streets leading to the castle. Most bars are family-run, some for generations.
The atmosphere is relaxed and local. You'll hear Murcian Spanish (with its distinctive accent) and see groups of friends sharing plates. Don't expect quiet, romantic spots – it's lively, especially on weekends.
Prices are reasonable. A drink (beer or wine) with a free tapa costs €2-3.50. If you order additional tapas, expect €3-8 per plate. Cash is still king in many places.
Best Tapas Bars
Bar El Castillo
€Right below the castle. Their free tapa is usually migas (fried breadcrumbs with pork) or a small montadito (sandwich). Order a caña (small beer) and you're set. Address: Calle Castillo 12, Mula.
Mesón La Cueva
€€Cave-like setting with stone walls. Try their embutidos (cured meats) from the area and pisto murciano (ratatouille-style vegetable stew). Address: Calle San Francisco 5, Mula.
Taberna El Rincón
€Tiny bar with standing room only. Their tortilla española (Spanish omelette) is properly runny in the middle. Address: Plaza de la Iglesia 3, Mula.
Bar Plaza Mayor
€€On the main square. Good for croquetas (croquettes) and calamares (squid). Their terrace fills up fast on sunny days. Address: Plaza del Ayuntamiento 7, Mula.
Cervecería El Molino
€Slightly more contemporary than others. They have craft beers and creative tapas like albóndigas (meatballs) in almond sauce. Address: Calle Nueva 15, Mula.
Local Tips
Go between 1-3pm for lunch tapas or 8-11pm for evening. Many places close mid-afternoon. Weekends are busiest but have the best atmosphere.
In Mula, most bars still give a free tapa with each drink. If they don't automatically offer, ask "¿Qué tapa hay?" (kay TAH-pah eye). It's expected.
Mula gets very hot in summer. Many bars have limited AC. Go in the evening when it's cooler, and drink plenty of water with your tapas.