TAPAS

Que son Tapas? 

empanadillas 

Now what are tapas? Tapas are a variety of dishes but in small portions. Eaten as a appetizer, a snack, or many as a meal. Similar to orderves but paid by the plate. At many restaurants you order a beer and get a free or cheap tapa (maybe a 1.5 to 2 Euros).

It's more considered a way of eating. You go out for tapas--meaning you go out to socialize over a nibble of food. What you receive can range. You might get a choice or have to settle for what comes with the beer. It's usually really simple.

In Granada, the tapas we had weren't traditional Espana comida. Middle Eastern tapas, bagel sandwiches with pasta and fries, grilled cheese, mini hamburgers... ha not typical, but still considered tapas.

Typical tapas you'll get are ensalada roja (similar to tuna salad), toasted bread with tomato spread and fresh mozzarella cheese, olives, patatas con salsa and small sized dishes of main entrees.  (FYI “salsa” is the term used for any type of dressing—salad dressing, spicy sauce, dipping sauce, aioli (like garlic mayonnaise), etc.)

Typically stroll into the night around 8:30 or 9. You can stay at one restaurant and order several tapas or take your time then leisurely move onto the next for a change of atmosphere. Be prepared for small quarters, shoulder to shoulder seating/ordering, and slow service. It’s part of the culture and part of the experience. J   

You can even get tapas in the day, which I highly recommend. Hay son muchos gentes! It’s fun to grab a seat a local restaurant and watch the many people bustle in and out. Each with their own character, own personality, own stories, own drama. It's like wathcing a forgien film. You can't distinguish what they're saying, but you can read their body language and comprehend. Whenever you have tapas, give yourself time. Eat leisurely, enjoy the food, the company you’re with, and the atmosphere you’re in. There’s nothing better. 

Ensalada Roja con Sardines

Calamari