Choosing Tapas: Tapear like a Spaniard

Choosing tapas while traveling in Spain is one of the simplest eating experiences you can ever have in a foreign country, even if you do not speak the language. In most tabernas what you see is what you get because the selection is usually laid out on the bar for you to choose and sample. Anyone can get by ordering simply by pointing to whatever dish they would like to try.

The tapas in each region of Spain will vary going from very traditional to modern tapas but local specialties can be expected. Even with this variety there are traditional tapas that you can expect to see in every tapas bar.

In order to help you enjoy the ambiance and company the taberna has to offer there are a couple things to know before ordering. The real way to tapear is to go from one bar to the next, or bar-hop, sampling the tapas in each establishment. Traditionally, you enter the bar and order a drink. You will then be served a tapa, chosen by the waiter, with your drink free of charge. Remember too that at the end of your sampling the waiter will charge you for your meal, you do not pay between each and every dish.

Larger servings can be chosen by you and are called raciones, served on a single plate and enough forks for everyone to enjoy from the same plate. If you are sitting at the bar you can just help yourself to each selection, most of the time using your own fork to sample from several plates shared by everyone. When sampling from the bar you should know that it is frowned upon to put your olive pits, toothpicks and napkins anywhere back on the bar. Instead throw them on the floor, there is always someone standing by to sweep the garbage up.

Most of all just remember that taking the time out of the day to enjoy tapas and a drink is a way of life in Spain, a daily ritual of sorts. Going out to a taberna is a way of socializing for the young and the old, so do not be surprised to see entire families, friends and dates all interacting in a single taberna.

Some of the most common and favorite tapas:

Olives- depending on the region of Spain you are visiting the type of olives will vary.

Jamon Serrano- A specialty ham in Spain, it is cured in dry mountain air, from acorn fed pigs. Usually served in thin slices with bread.

Mejillones a la marinera- Usually served in the South and near the coast this dish of mussels is sautéed in white wine, olive oil and lemon juice.

Albondigas- Meatballs in a heavy tomato paste

Tortilla a la Espanola- not the Mexican tortilla you are thinking of. The Spanish tortilla is an egg omelette and mixed with potato, onion, jamon or all three. Usually served in small wedges with bread.

Calamares Fritos- Squid that has been fried. Usually served with lemon.

Patatas bravas- Fried potato wedges with a tomato sauce dressing.

Caracoles- Braised snails.