Tapa

The word tapa (cover) comes from the act of covering a glass of wine with some piece of food to accompany it. The origin of this custom is uncertain; explanations range from royal decrees to avoid drunkenness, health advice or simply to keep insects or dust out of the glass. Whatever the case, the fact is that for over a century it has been the traditional Spanish way of having a snack or eating a light meal. A tapa is any small portion of food, hot or cold, cooked or raw, which is served with a drink. But to “tapear” has become a way of socializing, an alternative to formal eating which is unique to Spain, but which has spread with great success all over the world.