Tandem Cocktail Bar

"Tandem is a musty, 30-year-old joint that you think only you know about, where the same group of old guys always hangs out by the door, and there's always a free seat—even on a Saturday night. Although mention this place to your friends and you’ll learn that half of them also think of the lounge-like institution as their secret hideout. The leather armchairs clustered closely together in the back of a bar barely wider than a Barcelona metro car may have seen better days but who cares when the drinks are strong, and won’t cost you a month’s rent. This is the place for a no-fuss classic done right, but also silky-smooth espresso martinis if your tastes are less old-school." - Isabelle Kliger

"Tandem is a quiet little joint that doesn’t see a lot of action—just small groups and couples minding their own business. Open now for some 30 years, this place could be considered a Barcelona classic; it attracts an older clientele that appreciates the finer things and wants to avoid too-trendy spots. The menu reads a bit cryptically, but don't let that deter you from ordering a classic cocktail." - Isabelle Kliger, Naren Young

"First impression? A long, thin room with an insanely long bar is open all day, though its lack of windows definitely makes Tandem seem more appropriate for after dark imbibing. It’s a quiet little joint that doesn’t see a lot of action; just small groups and couples minding their own business. Cool. So who’s there? Open now for some 30 years, this place could be considered a Barcelona classic; it attracts an older clientele who appreciates the finer things and wants to avoid too-trendy spots. How are the drinks? An unnecessarily confusing cocktail menu, but don't let that deter you from ordering the classics. Worth ordering something to eat, too? No eats in sight. Did the staff do you right? Staff's nice enough, though bartenders can be hard to flag down when they're all the way at the far end of the bar. They do look the part though, all done up in white tuxedo jackets. Wrap it up: what are we coming here for? In a city as chaotic as Barcelona, a discreet and cozy cocktail bar like Tandem is a rare luxury. This civilized spot is designed for those of us who still see the value in being able to unwind in a giant leather armchair, while enjoying an intimate tête-à-tête over an expertly crafted cocktail far away from the commotion of the city outside." - Naren Young