Tapas - wonderful flavours for every taste

A day spent sampling tapas is the ideal way to experience Spanish culture and discover its enchanting bars and taverns. Tapas are an exquisite, varied sample of popular regional cuisine. You can share dishes and enjoy a broad selection of products. All the taste of Spain in just one meal, and usually at very affordable prices.

Forerunners of the long, multi-course menus which are in the vanguard of modern western cuisine, tapas contain a host of products, prepared in any number of styles. This culinary speciality was first enjoyed in the 12th century. It can include delicacies such as mouthwatering “bellota” Spanish ham (the finest), traditional Spanish omelette or exquisite seafood, even haute cuisine specialities also prepared in small quantities in the form of tapas.

In all of Spain’s cities, town’s and villages you will find bars, taverns, even entire neighbourhoods, specializing in tapas. These wonderful establishments offer a broad range including chorizo (a type of salami), morcilla (a type of black pudding), pickles, smoked meats and fish, cheeses, salted fish, anchovies, croquettes, migas (dish with fried breadcrumbs)… You may find over 100 specialities in total.

In each region of Spain you will find a different selection on offer. This is another advantage of eating tapas, delicious combinations of miniature culinary delights catering to all tastes and budgets.

Typical dishes and avant-garde cuisine

Tapas can also be presented and served in a number of different ways. There are pinchos (the simplest - served speared with a toothpick), banderillas (on skewers), montaditos (on pieces of bread) and cazuelitas (more sophisticated, served in miniature earthenware pots with seasoning and sauces to add personality). This last presentation is usually chosen for typical dishes from different regions of Spain, including, of course, paella from Valencia, fabada (sausage and bean casserole) from Asturias, callos (tripe and chick-peas) from Madrid and a host of different fish dishes.

Modern cuisine also has its place in the world of tapas. The basics remain, but with innovative presentation. Spanish omelette sorbet, goose liver paté casserole, king prawns with chick-peas, gazpacho with lobster… these are just a few examples of tapas created by famous chefs that have gone on to be popular in their own right.

There are many drinks that form the ideal accompaniment to tapas: beers, soft drinks and vermouths, white or red wines, even speciality wines such as “cava” (sparkling), and “finos” or “manzanillas” (dry sherries). Wherever you may be in Spain, in any bar or tavern, you will always find a barman or waiter who will be happy to advise you on how to get the most out of these culinary delights.