For some time now, the classic Seville tapas scene has been in a state of flux. People are still consuming these bite-sized morsels standing up, as has always been the tradition, but the experience is being enjoyed more and more by patrons sitting at tables. All over the city, there are bars, grocer’s shops and design spaces springing up, all with an original, 21st-century take on the culinary classic, and with tall stools and tables to eat from, rather than the classic bar counter tops used for informal eating. Going on a tapas tour in Seville is more exciting than ever. Papas aliñás, or, seasoned fries, cones filled with fried fish, and portions of jamón live in harmony with new recipes of culinary fusion. Always following the essential practice idea of sharing, which, in the Andalusian capital, is more a philosophy of living than it is a way of eating.

1. La Azotea

One of the best bars in Seville, with four different premises. Of particular note is the one located on Jesús del Gran Poder street.The produce is always drawn from whatever is in season, and chosen skillfully. Of note are the succulent traditional stews, such as the cod with chickpeas. At the bar, you’ll be tempted by the rations of seafood, cured meats, mushrooms in season, and red tuna…

2. Cañabota

Boasting a Japanese-style bar, high tables, an open kitchen and a fishmonger’s counter with produce that will leave you slack-jawed, Cañabota makes use of excellent raw ingredients, and specialty dishes including fried potatoes and cuttlefish roe, cold garlic and apple soup, and sea bream with jalapeños.

3. Lalola Taberna

In the trendy Triana neighborhood, Javier Abascal works with offal, Iberian pork and any local products in season. Simple, homemade dishes with roots that can be traced back to the oldest Spanish cookbooks. Seasoned carrots, pigs trotters, and Iberian ham served with eggplant hummus are among the attractions.

4. La fábrica de Besana

The tapas are on the small side here, but they’re immaculately turned out. It’s been years since Curro Noriega and Mario Ríos, from famed Spanish eatery El Celler de Can Roca, laid the foundations for this tapas restaurant in the nearby municipality of Utrera. Now they have brought their wares to the capital.

5. Antojo

An offer of tapas and dishes that are meant for sharing. Among the more creative culinary feats are the eggs still with their shells, and the charcoal grilled cod – both of which are served in a highly original way.

6. Abacería La Niña Bonita

Wines, beers, cured meats and tinned produce. The culinary offerings here are designed to evoke the grocery stores of yore, as is the decor. You’ll be surprised to find that some of the dishes on the menu arrive from the other side of the street, delivered direct from sister venue Antojo.

7. Ovejas Negras

Juan Manuel García and Genoveva Torres have revolutionized Seville, with venues where the classic tapas counter gives way to tables for sit-down eating, both of the bite-sized fare and larger dishes. It’s quality cuisine at affordable prices, with classic tapas such as Spanish potato salad with breadsticks, and more international dishes such as gyozas.

8. Eslava

One of the most famous bars in Seville, in which tradition and modernity coexist. The delicious Iberian ham is cut for you while you wait – you can pass the time enjoying the slow-cooked boletus mushroom quiche.

9. El Rinconcillo

A pure tapas venue, which was founded way back in 1670. Cod in batter, spinach and chickpeas, salad, quality dried meat…

10. Los Coloniales

A variety of tapas options inspired by tradition. Expect affordable prices, large food portions, and efficient service.

11. La Mamarracha

Tapas on the grill in a place that is always packed. Things to eat: fried chicken, rib of Iberian pork, lamb from Ávila…

12. Sal Gorda

Creative tapas. Unusual suggestions that have turned out to be a hit in this local tapas bar. Artisan beer and organic wine to accompany aged beef, croquettes in stew or sea bass ceviche.