Tabancos Guide: The Soul of Jerez in a Glass
If there is one place where the heart of Jerez beats the strongest, it is undoubtedly a tabanco. Half traditional tavern, half wine shop, these historic venues are an experience you cannot miss. Here, Sherry wine is served directly from the barrel, the tab is marked with chalk on the bar, and the tapas are simple yet delicious.
To help you discover this cherished tradition, we have designed a short route through three of our favorite tabancos, all very close to our apartments.
Before You Start: How Does a Tabanco Work?
- Order at the bar: Although some have tables, the essence is to order directly at the bar.
- Wine, straight from the barrel: Order a "fino," an "amontillado," or an "oloroso." It will be served from the barrel into your tasting glass. Don't leave without trying the "cream" if you enjoy sweet wine!
- Cold Tapas: The perfect accompaniment is cold tapas: *chacinas* (cured meats) from the sierra, Payoyo cheese, preserves, or their famous "special *chicharrones*."
- The tab, with chalk: It is tradition for the *tabanquero* to write your tab directly on the wooden bar with a piece of chalk.
Our Recommended Tabanco Route
1. Tabanco El Pasaje (The oldest)
Considered the oldest tabanco in Jerez, open since 1925. Entering here is like traveling back in time. Its walls breathe history and flamenco. In fact, in the evenings, high-quality spontaneous flamenco performances are common. It is a must-visit stop.
What to order: A *Palo Cortado* with a tapa of *mojama* (cured tuna).
2. Tabanco San Pablo (The classic)
Just a few steps from Calle Larga, this tabanco is a refuge of authenticity. Frequented by locals, it is the perfect place for a quiet chat while tasting their wines. Its tapas menu is more extensive than others, featuring small sandwiches (*montaditos*) and stews of the day.
What to order: A cold *fino* accompanied by a cheese tapa or their famous *chicharrones*.
3. Tabanco La Pandilla (The neighborhood spot)
With a more informal, neighborhood atmosphere, La Pandilla is a bustling and lively place. It is famous for its hot garlic soup (*ajo caliente*, in season) and for being a popular meeting point. Here you will feel the true pulse of Jerez's social life.
What to order: An *oloroso* and one of their house *montaditos*.
This small route is just the beginning. Every tabanco has its own personality and its own history. Exploring them is the best way to get to know the soul of Jerez and its wine culture.
Other Tabancos in Jerez
- Tabanco Plateros
- Tabanco Plaza Plateros
- Tabanco El Guitarrón de San Pedro
- Tabanco Los Monos
- Tabanco Las Dos Esquinas
- Tabanco Cruz Vieja
- Tabanco El Anticuario
- Tabanco Can Blanca
- Tabanco Casa Cristo
And after a great route, there's nothing like returning to a quiet, comfortable place to rest.
BOOK YOUR APARTMENT WITH US AND GET THE BEST STARTING POINT FOR YOUR JEREZ ADVENTURE.