Barcelona, the beautiful city in Spanish Catalonia region is famous for its incredible food culture and the modern, boiling kitchen. The best way of experiencing the local food is by going for the tour de tapas. The following blog post will be a guided virtual tour through the streets of Barcelona during which we will talk about traditional Spanish tapas and where it is best to taste them.
What are Tapas?
What is more tapas are one of the most popular Spanish dishes to go with wines that comes from Andalusia region. They are miniature portions of food normally and prepared for those times when you wish to grab a bite; or simply appetizers. The term ‘tapas’ stems from Spanish for lid or cover; originally the small plates which were used to cover liquor and prevent flies from falling in them. In the present, the tapas which are originally tasting portions have become a famous social meal sharing system that friends and families can take together.
The Tapas Scene in Barcelona
Spain: Barcelona can be considered as one of the best places in terms of variety tapas, as due to the city diverse ethnical background the choice of tapas offered is limitless. The name itself has a Spanish origin and typically for this style of food, there is a large variation from the standard traditional Spanish tapas to new inventions.
Must-Try Traditional Tapas
When in Barcelona, there are a few traditional tapas that you simply cannot miss:
- Patatas Bravas: Fresh thinly sliced potatoes fried to crispy served with performance art spicy tomato sauce and garlic mayo cream.
- Pan con Tomate: Soft fried bread topped with tomato and olive oil topped with a pinch of salt.
- Jamon Iberico: Sliced, cured ham that may be eaten with bread or on a slice of melon.
- Gambas al Ajillo: Garlic, olive oil and chili flakes shrimp stir fry.
- Tortilla Española: Popular breakfast Spanish dish usually prepared from eggs, potatoes and onions.
Nevertheless, the ideal place to taste delicious tapas in Barca is known today and it’s the ideal place for food lovers.
Here are some popular tapas bars and restaurants in Barcelona that are known for their exceptional offerings:
Name Address Specialty
Bar Cañete Carrer de la Unió, 17, 08001 Barcelona Seafood tapas
Tapeo Born Carrer de Montcada, 29, 08003 Barcelona Modern tapas with a creative twistCerveseria CatalanaCarrer de Mallorca, 236, 08008 Barcelona Wide variety of tapas
Els Quatre Gats Carrer de Montsió, 3 bis, 08002 Barcelona Catalan-inspired tapas
Ideas on How to Make Your Tapas Tour Fun
To make the most of your tapas experience in Barcelona, consider the following tips:
- Go on a tapas tour: You can taste the most delicious tapas in Barcelona while visiting the best places accompanied by an experienced guide who will tell you about the history of the city’s cuisine.
- Share and try different dishes: Tapas being all about sharing, make sure to take advantage of it! This is because one is advised to order a number of foods to allow him /her to taste some of the foods being served.
- Pair with local beverages: Pair your tapas with traditional Spanish wines such as vermouth or sangria or just local wines.
- Try the daily specials: You can also tell your waiter to recommend you a dish in the hope that they get to offer you something interesting and worth taking in the current season.
- Be mindful of dining hours: Tapas are also served throughout the day and the night but Spaniards, especially those at work, take dinner late in the evening, therefore, some tapas bars are usually congested after 8 pm.
Conclusion
A tour de tapas in Barcelona is something that cannot be missed if you are somehow into food and attempting food history. From the simplest of the Spanish Mezes – the traditional finger food of Spain comparable to all our tapas to the more exotic versions you could try in the city. Attune yourself to the subject of tapa and experience the delicious Spain cuisines by visiting the city of Barcelona. ¡Buen provecho!
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