University of Arizona Alum Brings Tucson Spirit to Barcelona

CocoVail Beer Hall offers a slice of Wildcat fandom in the heart of Spain

Apr. 4, 2026 at 2:54am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring the University of Arizona Wildcats logo repeated in a grid pattern, conceptually representing the global reach of the school's brand and community.The vibrant Wildcats logo has become a unifying symbol for University of Arizona alumni around the world, as exemplified by the success of CocoVail Beer Hall in Barcelona.Tucson Today

A University of Arizona alumnus has opened CocoVail Beer Hall in Barcelona, Spain, bringing a taste of Tucson's vibrant culture and Wildcat fandom to the other side of the Atlantic. The bar features Arizona-inspired decor, serves local craft beers, and has become a hub for U of A expatriates and fans living in the Spanish city.

Why it matters

The opening of CocoVail Beer Hall highlights the global reach and passion of University of Arizona alumni, who have taken their school spirit with them around the world. It also showcases how local businesses can tap into niche communities and identities to build a loyal customer base, even in a foreign country.

The details

CocoVail Beer Hall was founded by University of Arizona alumnus Javier Moreno, who wanted to recreate the lively atmosphere of Tucson's bar scene in his adopted home of Barcelona. The beer hall features Wildcat-themed decor, serves Arizona craft beers, and has become a gathering spot for U of A graduates living in Spain.

  • CocoVail Beer Hall opened in Barcelona in the summer of 2025.

The players

Javier Moreno

A University of Arizona alumnus who founded CocoVail Beer Hall in Barcelona to bring a taste of Tucson to Spain.

CocoVail Beer Hall

A bar in Barcelona, Spain that was opened by a University of Arizona alumnus to cater to the school's expatriate community and fans living in the city.

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What they’re saying

“When I moved to Barcelona, I missed the energy and community of Tucson. CocoVail is my way of bringing that Wildcat spirit to my new home.”

— Javier Moreno, Founder, CocoVail Beer Hall

The takeaway

The success of CocoVail Beer Hall demonstrates the power of niche businesses that cater to specific communities, even across international borders. By tapping into the shared identity and experiences of University of Arizona alumni, the bar has become a hub for Wildcat pride and culture in the heart of Barcelona.