Madrid is a city that is known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious food. One of the most popular culinary traditions in Madrid is tapas.
If you’re not familiar with tapas, they are small dishes of food that are typically served as an appetizer or snack in Spanish cuisine. In this article, we’ll explore how tapas work in Madrid and what you can expect when you go out for tapas.
What Are Tapas?
Tapas are small plates of food that originated in Spain. The word “tapas” comes from the Spanish verb “tapar,” which means “to cover.”
The tradition of serving small plates of food dates back to the 19th century when bartenders would place a small plate or lid on top of a customer’s drink to keep flies out. Over time, these small plates evolved into the delicious and varied dishes that we know today.
How Do Tapas Work?
In Madrid, tapas are typically served in bars and restaurants. When you order a drink, you will often be served a small plate of food along with it.
This is known as a “tapa.” The idea behind tapas is to encourage socializing and sharing among friends and family.
One popular way to enjoy tapas in Madrid is to go on a “tapeo.” This involves visiting several bars or restaurants and trying different types of tapas at each one. Some bars even specialize in certain types of tapas, such as seafood or meat dishes.
Types of Tapas
Tapas come in all shapes and sizes, and there are countless varieties to choose from. Here are some popular types of tapas that you might encounter in Madrid:
- Tortilla Española: A potato omelet that is typically served sliced into wedges.
- Croquetas: Fried balls of ham, chicken, or cheese.
- Gambas al Ajillo: Shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili peppers.
- Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers that are fried and sprinkled with salt.
- Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus that is boiled and served with paprika and olive oil.
Tipping for Tapas
In Madrid, it is not customary to tip for tapas. The cost of the tapa is typically included in the price of your drink. However, if you receive exceptional service or if you order a larger dish in addition to your tapa, it is appropriate to leave a small tip.
In Conclusion
Tapas are an essential part of the Madrid culinary experience. They offer a fun and social way to enjoy delicious food with friends and family. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Madrid or a seasoned traveler, be sure to try some tapas on your next visit – you won’t be disappointed!