tapas
Tapas are a wide variety of small, savory appetizers or snacks originating from Spain. Imagine walking through a bustling Spanish street, popping into a bar, and ordering a small plate of olives, cured ham, or spicy potatoes to enjoy with a glass of wine; these small portions are designed to be shared and sampled. While traditionally served for free with a drink in some parts of Spain, the term now globally refers to a style of dining where you order many different small plates rather than one large entrée. It is inherently social and implies a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.
In conversation
Deciding on dinner
I'm not super hungry, but I want to try a bit of everything.
I'm not super hungry, but I want to try a bit of everything.
How about we go for tapas? We can just order a few plates to share.
How about we go for tapas? We can just order a few plates to share.
Tapas is often used as a verb-like activity ('to go for tapas').
At the bar
Would you like to start with some tapas while you look at the main menu?
Would you like to start with some tapas while you look at the main menu?
Yes, please! Bring us the patatas bravas and the garlic shrimp.
Yes, please! Bring us the patatas bravas and the garlic shrimp.
Tapas are commonly served as a prelude to a larger meal.
Examples
We shared several tapas at the bar.
We shared several tapas at the bar.
Tapas culture is all about socializing while you eat.
Tapas culture is all about socializing while you eat.
The restaurant offers an authentic selection of tapas, ranging from boquerones to chorizo al vino.
The restaurant offers an authentic selection of tapas, ranging from boquerones to chorizo al vino.
