From tiny, family run bars to Michelin starred restaurants, tapas are a Spanish food phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. A fantastic way to keep going until lunch, perfect for dinner with friends, tapas are now a classic Spanish meal in their own right.

There are several stories pertaining to the origin of tapas. In Spanish "tapar" means to cover, and most people agree that the original origin of the word came from the fact that a glass of sherry or wine, served along a trade route was covered with bread or a plate, with a small amount of food on top. Whichever version of the story you choose to believe, tapas are a simple food invention that are definitely here to stay.

In some parts of Spain, particularly Andalucía, tapas are offered on the house when you buy a drink. You can also choose to go to a tapas restaurant and pick tapas from a menu to share with family and friends. Nowadays a tapas restaurant can vary from a family-run place to a high-end restaurant. Just choose the style of restaurant that suits your mood that day… and the type of drink you’d like. Whether it’s local wine or beer or a world-class wine, you’re bound to find it on the menu at a tapas restaurant.

Tapas arrive at the table in round earthenware dishes, filling the centre of the table. You’ll be given your own plate to pick and choose your favourite nibbles from the food placed in front of you and then the fun begins!

The list of fantastic tapas is probably endless. Some timeless favourites include patatas bravas; cubed pieces of cooked potato in a spicy tomato sauce, calamares fritos; fried squid – perfect with the mayonnaise the Spanish serve it with, boquerones: anchovies in vinegar, tortilla; the classic Spanish tortilla, often served with a slice of freshly cut bread. Croquetas, a cheese and ham croquette combination and chorizo in red wine are also favourites the world over. The list just goes on and on!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a fork and dig in!

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