Makinavaja
Makinavaja
Makinavaja is a small late-night tapas bar on Carrer de les Carretes in el Raval, named after Ivà's cult Barcelona comic character. Run by Leandro, it pairs classic Spanish bar food such as croquetas de setas and patatas bravas with regular live music in a rock 'n' roll leaning format.
Background
About Makinavaja
The Story
Makinavaja takes its name from the cult Barcelona comic character created by Ivà, an anarchic Raval anti-hero who became local shorthand for the neighbourhood's bohemian streak. The bar leans into that identity: a small room on Carrer de les Carretes run by Leandro, known to regulars for the stories and legends he shares across the counter.
The Cuisine
The kitchen sticks to classic Spanish bar food: tapas, croquetas, patatas bravas and similar dishes meant to be shared over drinks rather than ordered as a tasting menu. Portions and prices sit in the budget range typical of a neighbourhood Raval bar.
The Team
Makinavaja is run by Leandro, who is the face of the bar for most regulars. 's review singles him out as the host whose storytelling shapes the atmosphere as much as the food does.
Highlights
What Diners Say
Consensus
Makinavaja Ratings & Reviews
Professional Ratings
Diner Ratings
4.6
1,252 reviews
Yelp
4.0
2 reviews
Diners rate it 4.6/5 on Google (1,252 reviews) and 4.0/5 on Yelp (2 reviews).
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Reservations
How to Book Makinavaja
Booking
Makinavaja is a small neighbourhood tapas bar rather than a fine-dining restaurant, and walk-ins are the norm. On live-music nights the room fills quickly, so calling ahead for a group is sensible.
Experience
Makinavaja Dining Experience
A compact, low-lit Raval bar with a rock 'n' roll streak and live music a regular part of the programming. Regulars describe it as cosy and loud in equal measure, with Leandro behind the counter and the room filling up quickly on gig nights.
Navigate
Makinavaja Location & Neighbourhood
Getting There
Makinavaja sits on Carrer de les Carretes in el Raval, a short walk from Paral·lel metro and the lower end of Ronda de Sant Antoni. It is tucked into the residential, southern stretch of the Raval, away from the main tourist axis of La Rambla.
Nearby
El Raval is the dense, multicultural stretch of Ciutat Vella west of La Rambla, historically the city's working-class and bohemian quarter. Makinavaja sits in its quieter southern section, a short walk from Paral·lel metro and the MACBA end of the neighbourhood.
Details
Makinavaja Reservations, Hours & Contact
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 19:00–02:30 |
| Wednesday | 19:00–02:30 |
| Thursday | 19:00–02:30 |
| Friday | 19:00–02:30 |
| Saturday | 13:00–03:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Makinavaja hours verified 2026-04-01. Contact the restaurant to confirm.
Contact
Walk-ins welcome. Call the bar on +34 934 417 979 to reserve a table for larger groups or live-music nights.
Good to Know
Questions
Makinavaja FAQ
Is Makinavaja related to the famous Barcelona comic character?
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The bar takes its name from the cult Raval comic character Makinavaja created by Ivà, and leans into that bohemian, anti-establishment identity in its decor and programming.
Does Makinavaja host live music?
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Yes. Makinavaja regularly hosts live music in a rock 'n' roll leaning format; the exact line-up varies week to week.
What are Makinavaja's opening hours in Barcelona?
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Makinavaja is open Tuesday through Friday from 19:00 to 02:30, and Saturday from 13:00 to 03:00. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Sundays.
How much does it cost to eat at Makinavaja?
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Expect roughly €10-€20 per person for tapas and drinks, in line with budget neighbourhood bars in el Raval.
Where exactly is Makinavaja located in Barcelona?
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Makinavaja is located at Carrer de les Carretes, 51 in the el Raval neighbourhood of Ciutat Vella district.
Do I need to make reservations at Makinavaja?
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Walk-ins are the norm. For larger groups or live-music nights, calling +34 934 417 979 in advance is a good idea.
What type of cuisine does Makinavaja serve?
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Makinavaja serves tapas and classic Spanish bar dishes such as croquetas de setas (mushroom croquettes) and patatas bravas, meant for sharing alongside drinks.