Barcelona Wine Bar

Located in the heart of New Haven, Barcelona Wine Bar is a stylish and lively spot that brings the atmosphere of Spain's legendary Boqueria market to American soil. It is more than just a restaurant; it is a Mediterranean oasis in the USA, where the focus is on authentic tapas and an impressive wine list.

The establishment is renowned for having one of the largest wine programs in the country, specializing in Spanish and South American wines. The list features over 400 selections, including rare biodynamic varieties and wines from small family-owned estates. They value the craftsmanship of female winemakers and a sustainable approach to the land, offering guests a chance to discover products from over 100 different wine regions.

The kitchen is inspired by the traditions of Spain and South America. The executive chef crafts the menu daily, based on the freshest seasonal ingredients available at the market. This makes every visit to Barcelona Wine Bar a unique experience, blending rustic cooking styles with a modern gastronomic approach.

For table reservations or information regarding current events, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to visit Barcelona Wine Bar is the art of social dining. It is common here to order many small tapas for the whole table, turning the meal into an engaging process of sharing experiences. Try the fresh Mediterranean-style seafood or the traditional charcuterie, which perfectly complement the atmosphere of a bustling Spanish bar.

Wine lovers should definitely order a tasting flight or ask the sommelier for a recommendation. The wine list is curated by recognized experts who travel the world in search of rare varieties. You can discover biodynamic and organic wines that are rarely found in standard stores. If you find a variety you particularly enjoy, stop by the neighboring boutique, The Wine Thief, to pick up a bottle to go.

Since the executive chef creates a new menu every evening, you can always find something special that reflects the season. The energetic, slightly bustling, yet very welcoming environment makes it the perfect place for evening gatherings where you can forget daily worries and enjoy a true European vibe.

Barcelona Wine Bar is ideally located in the heart of the city, in close proximity to the Yale University campus and the Chapel Street entertainment district. If you are already downtown, a pleasant walk to the bar will take no more than 5–10 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, the CT Transit bus network is a convenient option, with stops on Temple Street or Crown Street. If you are arriving in the city by train, Union Station is about a 15-minute walk away, or a quick taxi ride.

Drivers should take I-95 or I-91, following the exits toward downtown. Right across from the restaurant is the Temple Street Parking Garage, famous for its Brutalist architecture; street parking is also available nearby.

The history of the Barcelona Wine Bar chain began in 1996 in Connecticut, when partners Andy Pforzheimer and Sasa Mahr-Batuz decided to create one of the first establishments in the USA entirely dedicated to the culture of Spanish tapas. The project was conceived as a fun and eclectic place for casual socializing, and over time it has grown into a recognized chain while maintaining an individual approach at each location.

The building at 155 Temple St in New Haven has its own interesting architectural history. It was built in 1965 by architect Lathrop Douglass as part of a large-scale downtown revitalization program. This structure, modern for its time, became part of the Chapel Square Mall, and today it harmoniously houses both the restaurant and a wine boutique.

Interestingly, before the modern building appeared, this piece of land saw many owners. Since the early 19th century, it was home to private estates of Yale graduates and printing houses. In 1894, a five-story Romanesque-style building was erected on this site, which stood until 1960 when it was demolished for an ambitious urban renewal project.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and the cuisine, you should plan for a visit of 1 to 3 hours. If your goal is simply to have a glass of Spanish wine and a couple of light snacks, one hour will be quite sufficient.

For a full dinner with friends, accompanied by a tasting of several wine varieties and a selection of hot tapas, it is better to set aside 2–3 hours. The bar's energetic atmosphere is perfect for long conversations and a leisurely exploration of the daily changing menu.

Barcelona Wine Bar welcomes guests daily, offering late-night dinners as well as Sunday brunches. Please note that on Fridays and Saturdays, the bar stays open an hour later.

• Monday — Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Friday — Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

A stroll around the area surrounding Barcelona Wine Bar allows you to deeply feel the atmosphere of this university city. Historic landmarks and picturesque districts are just a few minutes' walk away, making them perfect additions to your itinerary before or after dinner.