Spain is the country of tapas. Wherever you go to a bar, you can always taste a small appetizer with your drink. That is a “Tapa”. In many cities in the north of Spain, you have to ask for a “Pincho” if you want one. The origin of the tapa is very varied, but in its beginnings it served essentially as a snack between breakfast and lunch. Remember that in Spain we have lunch from 2 o’clock in the afternoon.
Nowadays, you can go out “de tapas” both at noon and in the evening and that means going out for lunch.
Let’s see if we can convince you with this post, to come and try our tapas.
History of the Tapa
The origin of the tapa can be considered as the need of farmers and other workers to have a small bite to eat during their working day. That would allow them to continue their work until lunchtime.
But most of the voices give its origin to the King of Spain Alfonso X the Wise. (XIII Century). It seems that the King had a stomach illness that forced him to take small bites of food frequently. The king accompanied these bites with a glass of wine. For this reason, when he needed to take his snack, he went to the taverns and here is when the legend begings. It is said that to prevent the flies that flew around the food from falling into the glass of wine, the tavern keepers would cover (“tapar”) the glass with the plate that had the appetizer.
Since then, what started as a simple physical necessity, became a Spanish custom that was later adopted in other countries. Today it has become a social act to meet with friends or family. It is for this reason, that the food is no longer the most important thing and neither is the wine, since you can have a tapa with any drink.
Types of Tapas
During the Middle Ages, the tapa consisted of a slice of ham or a piece of cheese. Over the years, the tapa has evolved into a gastronomic art in many bars in Spain. In fact, there are tapas contests in many cities, such as the Tapa de Granada contest.
Depending on the Spanish geographical area, tapas may vary. In coastal areas, fish is one of the most common tapas. In more inland areas, it will be more common to find tapas elaborated with a greater variety of meats. Having said this, there are a few that are a must in any self-respecting bar. We are talking about olives, anchovies in vinegar, Spanish tortilla, “ensaladilla”, croquettes and “montaditos” with different fillings. This said, with the incorporation of the list of allergens in 2015, more and more bars have tapas suitable for people with specific diets.
Tapas in Granada
Granada is probably the city of Spain with more bars per person. In each neighborhood, you will find its own bar area. This way in the bars of the Albaycín, you will be able to appreciate its beautiful surroundings. In the bars of the Realejo, you will enjoy the mixture of its people. And in the Historical Center, you will find the most varied bars with different gastronomy.
We are going to share our favorite bars. Hopefully, we don’t forget anyone so they don’t get disappointed.
- Potemkin. Famous for its Sushi.
- Los Manueles: Never fails.
- Los Diamantes. The one for fried fish.
- Casa Julio. A tradition in Granada.
- Las Provincias. A hided jewel.
- Bodegas Castañeda. A must when you visit Granada.
Conclusion
We hope we were able to share with you the importance of our food and bars in Spain. So when you come to visit, you are able to enjoy the vibrant energy of them. Spain is a welcoming country, we like to socialize with visitors and show them the beauty of our customs. Don’t come to get drunk, don’t come in a hurry, respect,… Relax and enjoy life!
