Tabancos Guide: The Soul of Jerez in a Glass

If there's one place where the heart of Jerez beats the strongest, it's undoubtedly a tabanco. Part traditional tavern, part wine bar, these historic establishments are an experience not to be missed. Here, sherry is poured straight from the cask, the bill is chalked at the bar, and the tapas are simple but delicious.

To help you discover this tradition, we've designed a short tour of three of our favorite tabancos, all very close to our apartments.

Before we start: How does a Tabanco work?

* Order at the bar: Although some have tables, the essence is to order directly at the bar.

* Wine, in bulk: Order a "fino," an "amontillado," or an "oloroso." They'll serve it to you from the wineskin to your wine tasting glass. Don't leave without trying the "cream" if you like sweet wine!

* Cold tapas: The perfect accompaniment is cold tapas: mountain sausages, Payoyo cheese, preserves or their famous "special chicharrones."

* The check, with chalk: It is tradition for the tabanero to write your check with chalk directly on the wood of the bar.

Our Recommended Tabancos Route

1. Tabanco El Pasaje (The oldest)

Considered the oldest tabanco in Jerez, open since 1925, entering here is like stepping back in time. Its walls ooze history and flamenco. In fact, at night, spontaneous, high-quality flamenco performances are common. It's a must-see.

 * What to order: A palo cortado with a tapa of mojama.

2. Tabanco San Pablo (The classic)

Just a few steps from Calle Larga, this tabanco is a haven of authenticity. Frequented by locals, it's the perfect place for a quiet chat while tasting their wines. Their tapas menu is more extensive than most, with sandwiches and stews of the day.

 * What to order: A very cold fino sherry accompanied by a tapa of cheese or their famous chicharrones.

3. Tabanco La Pandilla (The one from the neighborhood)

With a more casual, neighborhood atmosphere, La Pandilla is a bustling and lively spot. It's famous for its hot garlic (in season) and for being a popular meeting place. Here you'll feel the true pulse of Jerez's social life.

 * What to order: A oloroso and a house sandwich.

This short tour is just the beginning. Each tabanco has its own personality and 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 good route, there's nothing like returning to a quiet and comfortable place to rest.

Book your apartment with us and have the best starting point for your Jerez adventure.