Chiringuitos, Spain's Mythical Beach Restaurants

Picture yourself lying on the beach. There's sun, sand, the sound of waves nudging the shore. But there's something missing ...

That's when you need to check out your local chiringuito (or xiringuito if you're in Catalonia) for a drink and a snack. These beach bars and restaurants, which can range from a simple informal shack to a fully built brick-and-mortar structure, serve beachgoers up and down the coasts of Spain. They're the perfect place to grab a drink and a snack – grab a beer and a paella (learn how to order beer here) or cold soda and some helado.

For a guide to José's favorite chiringuitos of Spain, check out his recommendations from Food & Wine Magazine. 

So when you're on the beach outside of Barcelona and you realize that something is missing, you know it's time to grab a cerveza and a plate of paella at the chiringuito!