National Tapa Day

A person enjoying a platter of colorful tapas, surrounded by vibrant Spanish decor and wearing a stylish summer outfit.. — National tapa day illustration

Hey there, folks! Ready to dive into the fascinating world of National Tapa Day? Well, buckle up your taste buds, because we've got a mouthwatering journey ahead of us!

When is Tapa Day?

It's national tapa day on the 29th January.

History of National Tapa Day

So, how did this deliciously satisfying day come to be? Let's dig in, shall we? National Tapa Day first gained a foothold in the digital realm on January 29, 2016. With 14 online mentions, it was clear that people just couldn't get enough of these bite-sized flavor bombs.

But what exactly are tapas, you ask? Well, my hungry friend, tapas are a variety of appetizers, snacks, or small plates that originated in Spain. These delectable treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all by yourself—no judgment here!

As the popularity of tapas spread like wildfire across the internet, National Tapa Day was born to celebrate these savory sensations. It's a day to gather your friends, grab a drink, and savor the flavors of Spain from the comfort of your own home—or venture out to a tapas bar, if you're feeling adventurous!

Did You Know?

Now, here's a fun fact to impress your foodie friends: Did you know that the word 'tapa' actually means 'cover' in Spanish? The origin of this term dates back to the 13th century when bartenders used to cover glasses with small plates to keep out fruit flies. From this simple concept emerged a culinary tradition that has captivated taste buds worldwide.

History behind the term 'Tapa'

14th century

Origins in Spain

Tapa is believed to have originated in Spain during the 14th century. The term 'tapa' in Spanish means 'cover' or 'lid'. It is said that bartenders in Spain would place a small plate or lid on top of customers' glasses to protect the drinks from flies and dust. This practice of covering the glass gradually evolved into serving small bites of food on top of the lid.

19th century

Royal Influence

During the 19th century, tapas gained popularity in Spain due to the influence of Queen Isabella II. The Queen's doctor advised her to eat small portions of food with wine to improve her health. This led to the widespread adoption of serving tapas in bars and taverns, where small bites of food were offered alongside alcoholic beverages. Tapas became an integral part of Spanish culinary culture.

20th century

Modernization and Varieties

In the 20th century, tapas underwent further evolution and modernization. Bars and restaurants started offering a wide variety of tapas, ranging from traditional classics like patatas bravas (fried potatoes in spicy sauce) and tortilla española (Spanish omelette) to creative and innovative combinations of ingredients. Tapas became synonymous with socializing, where friends and family would gather, order various tapas, and share them while enjoying drinks and lively conversations.

21st century

Global Popularity

Tapas gained global popularity in the 21st century, becoming a beloved culinary trend beyond Spain's borders. Numerous tapas bars emerged around the world, offering an authentic taste of Spanish cuisine. The concept of sharing small plates has become a social dining experience in many countries, reflecting the convivial and communal spirit of tapas. Today, tapas continue to captivate food enthusiasts with their flavorful and diverse array of dishes.

Did you know?

Did you know that the word 'tapa' actually means 'cover' in Spanish? The origin of this term dates back to the 13th century when bartenders used to cover glasses with small plates to keep out fruit flies.