Bar Raval : Toronto’s Slice of Barcelona

Bar Raval, one of Toronto’s most beloved spots, has been a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant food scene since opening its doors on February 14, 2015. With its Spanish-inspired concept, intimate design, and dynamic menu, it offers an unparalleled dining experience reminiscent of the vibrant tapas bars of Barcelona.

The Name and the Inspiration

The name “Bar Raval” pays homage to the Raval neighborhood in Barcelona, known for its winding streets, small alleys, and vibrant culture. It captures the essence of a place where you can wander, discover, and immerse yourself—a feeling the owners sought to recreate in Toronto.

The Neighborhood: Little Italy’s Revival

Located in Toronto’s Little Italy, Bar Raval is part of the neighborhood’s renaissance over the past decade. Vibrant and up-and-coming at the time of its opening, the area now thrives with a mix of trendy establishments and a strong sense of community. The owners and staff live nearby, making this a personal investment in the place they call home.

The Concept: A True Spanish Tapas Bar

Bar Raval introduced Toronto to the quintessential Spanish tapas bar experience. It’s a mostly standing-room restaurant, encouraging an authentic, casual vibe where patrons can grab a drink, share small plates with friends, or stop by for a quick bite. The concept is deeply rooted in Spain’s eating and drinking culture, with dishes like shrimps, octopus, and a love for anchovies and cherries—all made with local influences and ingredients sourced from nearby farms and suppliers.

The Team Behind Bar Raval

Bar Raval is co-owned by Hailey Burke and Grant van Gameren, the latter also known for his work at Bar Isabel, Quetzal, El Rey, and several other Toronto hotspots. Hailey, who was offered the role of partner during the pandemic, is now the managing partner. She oversees operations, the beverage program, and the wine list, while Grant focuses on the culinary side. Together, they’ve been working side by side for over 11 years, creating a dynamic space where the love of food, drink, and community shines.

The Space: A Work of Art

Designed by Toronto-based architectural firm Partisans, the interior of Bar Raval is a masterpiece. The firm, located just down the street, embraced the heritage of the building, incorporating sculptural woodwork that evokes the warmth of Spanish bars. The intimate space seats 40 people inside, with an additional 100 seats on the terrace and 10 stools at the bar.

The Menu: Seasonal, Fun, and Iconic

Led by Executive Chef Partner Zach Smith, the menu features staples like croquettes, kitchen bread, and shrimps, which have been favorites since day one. Zach, who was Bar Raval’s CDC before the pandemic, went on to open Fat Rabbit in St. Catharines (now a Michelin Bib Gourmand) before returning to the team. With his arrival, the menu has seen a return to more pinchos, those tiny handheld skewered snacks that are at the heart of Spanish bar culture. New highlights include a truffled château de Bocdan and salchichón pincho, a tuna tartare with shaved tuna hearts, shrimp with truffled jamon and green chorizo, and a fried calamari dish. Georges Vaillant remains the CDC day-to-day, keeping the kitchen running smoothly. The menu continues to rotate seasonally, with anchovies, a nod to Spanish flavors, remaining a standout.

Drinks: Spanish Wines and Classic Cocktails

The wine list leans heavily on Spanish wines, featuring low-intervention bottles with high acidity, ideal for pairing with tapas. Hailey took over the wine program after the pandemic, bringing a deep appreciation for Ontario producers like Pearl Morissette and Rosewood, as well as select Montreal winemakers. The selection includes sparkling wines,Grenache, and unique options like Lieux Commun’s Envol Sparkling Red. The bar program, led by Bar Manager Bex Figueiredo, offers a selection of house cocktails that complement the lively atmosphere.

The Experience: More Than Just a Restaurant

For the owners, Bar Raval is about more than food and drinks—it’s about ambiance and community. The staff, many with backgrounds in art, bring unique personalities that shape the restaurant’s dynamic environment. Whether you’re stopping by for a beer, a glass of wine, or a full dining experience, Bar Raval functions as a versatile space that’s perfect for dates, casual gatherings, or a late-night bite.

Now open from 1 PM to 1 AM, Bar Raval continues to set the standard for tapas bars in Toronto, offering locals and visitors a taste of Barcelona with a distinctly Toronto twist.

Written by Fabie Lubin
Photography by Scott Usheroff (Craving Curator)

Updated on May 11, 2026

Make a suggestion