This Monumental Egotist Believes Spain Needs More Self-Righteous Expats in Spanish Bars

This Monumental Egotist Believes Spain Needs More Self-Righteous Expats in Spanish Bars

When Tom Hopcroft started his Guiris De Mierda brand, it wasn't just bad taste he wanted to bring to the table.

Now after skateboarding the length of Spain to seem interesting, Hopcroft has decided his white male privilege is the key to saving traditional Spanish culture.

Translating loosely to "Asshole Immigrants", Tom's Guiris De Mierda community thrives off of exploring and enjoying traditional Spanish bars, drinking beer and tapas in an attempt to look like they're invested in supporting local businesses.

Dubbed Save The Barrio, these unashamedly foreign events are, on the surface, irony turned up to eleven.

But these sold-out events are, at the same time, a conscious effort to divert expat money away from chain restaurants and back to the ‘tabernas’ that offer a real slice of Spanish life.

Tom Hopcroft, founder at Guiris de Mierda, said:

“At Guiris de Mierda, we’re not just about connecting people; we’re about giving back. Our Save the Barrio initiative is our way of celebrating and supporting the heart and soul of Spain: the small, family-run Paco bars and traditional Castizo establishments that make every neighbourhood unique.”

This month’s event was held at Venta El Segoviano Madrid (near Canal), selling out more than a week in advance. Tom says the Guiris ate no fewer than 20 full tortillas de patata in under three hours!

Guiri Aurora said:

“I moved to this barrio a few months ago and hadn’t come across this place before, even though it’s on the doorstep!

“Save the barrio is a great way to discover hidden gems you otherwise might not know of, and support these local businesses.”

Another said:

“I know there are these types of traditional tabernas all over the city and getting the opportunity to check them out and see what they are about while helping the local owners is really rewarding.

“It’s always good to know these places as well, to add them to my route when I have friends visiting the city.”

The next Save the Barrio event will be held in January 2025.

Check out upcoming events from Guiris de Mierda here.