World Tapas Day, celebrated annually on the third Thursday of June, was introduced by its country of creation, Spain, in 2016 to highlight and share in the deliciousness of tapas – the iconic Spanish food generally served with drinks to encourage socialisation. Tapas are usually served as appetisers but can be combined to form a full, flavourful meal. With both hot and cold options, there is something for everyone’s taste.
In honour of this year’s World Tapas Day, Expat Explore has compiled a list of the best tapas and dishes to enjoy when travelling through Spain (or at home if you want a tasty reminder of your trip). Take a look at these mouthwatering dishes and snack plates. Imagine yourself trying each one as you soak up the Spanish sun and social scene!
Here are 10 tapas to try in Spain:
Pincho de tortilla
This Spanish omelette is a must-try! Unlike any omelette you’ve ever had before, pincho de tortilla might remind you of a slice of potato pie, except crustless and made with eggs.
Gambas al ajillo
A classic dish combining shrimp, garlic and olive oil, gambas al ajillo might seem deceptively simple. While using only a few ingredients, this tasty Spanish dish will send your taste buds into overdrive!
Patatas bravas/aioli
Continuing on with the theme of simple yet delicious, this dish consists of fried potatoes served with the perfect sauce. Choose from either salsa bravas or garlic aioli! Salsa bravas are generally spicy, made with olive oil, spices (paprika is a popular choice) and tomato. Aioli, on the other hand, is a rich and satisfying mixture of garlic and olive oil.
Chorizo al vino
You’ve heard of and maybe tried chorizo, but have you ever tasted it cooked in Spanish wine? That’s the simple yet effective basis of this dish – spiced chorizo cooked to perfection in vino tinto (Spanish red wine). If you have the luxury of trying this in Spain, you’ll likely receive it served with crispy bread. This means that none of the sensational sauce goes to waste!
Jamón Ibérico
While some could consider this tapa dish overly simple, since it’s only cured ham, this Spanish staple is a must-try when you visit! But what makes this cured ham so special? Firstly, it is made from the black Iberian pig named after the peninsula where it’s found. The ham is cured for no less than a year or sometimes even several years! Then, it’s thinly sliced and served. Your Spanish experience truly won’t be complete until you’ve tried it.
Pimientos de Padrón
Before you try this one, make sure you can handle the heat! Consisting only of spicy Padrón peppers fried in olive oil and topped with sea salt, this dish relies heavily on the inherent spice in the peppers – which is rather intense. And with no real way of knowing how spicy it’ll be until you taste it, we recommend this one only for the heat lovers!
Ensaladilla Rusa
Perfect for easing the effects of a spicy pimiento or as a light, refreshing accompaniment to a drink, this cold egg salad is something you can’t afford to miss! Made of egg, potato, carrot and mayonnaise, Ensaladilla Rusa is a creamy delight loved by many Spanish locals and visitors.
Croquetas
Another staple in Spain, croquetas are a favourite because of their comfort value and versatility. These crumbed fritters tick all your comfort food boxes! Try ones made either with vegetables, seafood or cheese, and thank us later!
Calamares
It should come as no surprise that Spanish tapas and dishes often rely on fresh seafood. However, one of the most popular seafood tapas is none other than calamares (fried baby squid). This tasty classic is primarily served warm with a side of lemon and aioli.
Huevos rotos
Popular in many taverns across Spain, huevos rotos (or broken eggs) is a simple yet delicious tapa dish made of fried potato, fried egg and chorizo. Served hot so visitors can break open the perfectly runny yellow of the fried egg, it’s no wonder why this is a Spanish favourite.
Now that your appetite has been piqued by these undeniably delicious tapas, you may be on the lookout for a Spanish spot for a full meal. While you can certainly find endless restaurants and eateries as you travel, Expat Explore has rounded up our top 5 noteworthy restaurants in Spain. Take a look, and continue your tasty trip!
Here are our top 5 Spanish restaurants:
Sobrino de Botín
Located in Madrid, Spain’s capital city, this gem is known for its hearty Spanish dishes such as suckling pig, its gazpacho, as well as their speciality sangria. But, above and beyond their delectable menu, Sobrino de Botín also has an impressive record – it’s the oldest running restaurant in the world! So make sure to check it out on your Spanish trip to get a sense of the history of Spanish cuisine before venturing onto the more inventive and high-end interpretations.
Related: Find out more fun facts about Spain!
Lasarte
This fine dining establishment, located in Barcelona boasts an impressive menu that includes a curated tasting experience for visitors. This sophisticated restaurant takes a creative approach to meals, so the tasting menu is your best bet for getting a taste of it all!
El Celler de Can Roca
Founded by three brothers, this high-end fine dining restaurant located in Girona is unmissable due to the unmatched culinary experience you’ll receive. This chic bistro is well-known for its inventive twist on traditional Catalan recipes.
Cal Pep
For a better-value option that still provides an exquisite Spanish dining experience in Barcelona, opt for Cal Pep. This rustic restaurant specialises in seafood and tapas. Bring your favourite people along, and enjoy sharing plates served in a rustic dining room with exposed brick or at counter seats.
Restaurante Lienzo
Based in Valencia, this high-concept restaurant is special enough to merit a visit! Set in an old art gallery, Restaurante Lienzo offers creative Mediterranean cuisine. They utilise only the best seasonal, local produce in their menu.
Related: Visit Valencia when you embark on our 7-day Taste of Spain tour!
There you go – the best dishes and restaurants to try during your stay in Spain! We hope you make mouthwatering memories as you experience Spain with your taste buds. And if you can’t get to all these in one trip, it’s never too soon to start planning your next Spanish vacation!