Ebike tapas route through Granada

Tapeo in Spain: More than Eating, a Social Experience

Tapeo’ is one of the most deeply-rooted gastronomic customs in Spain and goes far beyond the simple act of eating. It is a social experience in which friends, family and work colleagues get together to enjoy small portions of food accompanied by a drink. This tradition is a fundamental part of Spanish culture and varies from region to region.

 

What is Tapeo?

Tapeo consists of going from bar to bar tasting different tapas, which can be hot or cold, traditional or innovative. Often, each bar has its own speciality, which makes the tour a culinary adventure. Although in some cities tapas are served free with a drink, in others you pay extra.

 

Cities Where Tapeo is a Ritual

 

Granada and León: Free Tapas with Drink

 

Granada and León are famous for offering free tapas with every drink. In these places, ordering a glass of beer or a glass of wine is usually accompanied by a portion of food at no extra cost. The more rounds you order, the more varied the tapas you will be served.

Madrid: Bars and Taverns with History

 

In Madrid, tapas are a typical plan after work or on weekends. Neighbourhoods such as La Latina, Malasaña or Chamberí are full of century-old taverns and modern bars where you can enjoy classics such as patatas bravas, pincho de tortilla española, la oreja a la plancha or boquerones en vinagre (anchovies in vinegar). They are usually accompanied by beer or vermouth.

 

Seville: Tapas of Andalusian Influence

 

Seville is another city where tapas is almost an art. Here, tapas with an Andalusian influence predominate, such as “pescaíto frito” (fried fish), spinach with chickpeas or montadito de pringá. In addition, most of the bars have terraces, which makes for a lively atmosphere.

 

San Sebastian: Haute Cuisine Pintxos

 

In the Basque Country, the concept of a tapa is known as a ‘pintxo’. Unlike in other regions, pintxos are usually served on a slice of bread and can be miniature haute cuisine elaborations. San Sebastian is the epicentre of this tradition, with bars where you can find authentic gastronomic gems.

 

What to drink when you go for tapas?

 

Tapas are usually accompanied by typical drinks such as:
Caña (Beer in a very small glass, so that it is always cold).

Red or white wine, depending on the tapa.
Vermouth, very popular in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.
Cider, in regions such as Asturias and the Basque Country.

 

Tips for enjoying tapas

Don’t stay in just one bar. The essence of tapas is to go from one place to another.
Try what is typical of each place. Each city and each bar has its own speciality. For example, in León, the morcilla (blood sausage) is very typical and they even make delicious croquettes. In Madrid it is typical the Spanish omelette and Granada is known for its great variety and quality of tapas.
Share tapas. This way you can try more options without getting too full.
Avoid peak hours. Unless you want the experience of a crowded bar, it is best to go out before 14:00 or after 21:00.

Tapas is more than just a way of eating; it is a social ritual, a deep-rooted tradition and a unique way of getting to know Spanish gastronomy. Each region has its own style, but the spirit is the same: enjoying good food, good company and a good atmosphere.

 

Origin of Tapas

 

There are several theories about the origin of tapas. One of the most popular says that in the Middle Ages, innkeepers would serve a slice of bread or sausage on top of a glass of wine to prevent dust or insects from getting in. This is where the name ‘tapa’ comes from, because it ‘covered’ the drink.

 

GOING OUT FOR TAPAS IN GRANADA

 

Granada is world renowned not only for its imposing Alhambra, but also for its vibrant tapas culture. The city offers a wide variety of tapas routes, allowing you to discover both classic and traditional bars as well as those with innovative proposals.

 

 

Here is a summary of some of the most outstanding tapas routes:

Route through the Historic Centre

 

Calle Navas and surroundings: Bars such as Los Diamantes and Los Manueles are unmissable classics, where the tradition of free tapas mixes with the quality of fried fish and hearty portions.
Plaza de Bib-Rambla: A hub of charming bars, ideal for enjoying the local atmosphere while sampling a variety of tapas.

 

Albaicín and Sacromonte Route

 

Viewpoints and alleyways of the Albaicín: Here, as well as traditional tapas, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Alhambra. In areas such as the Mirador de San Nicolás, the bars offer tapas in a setting with history and charm.

Sacromonte: Known for its bohemian atmosphere and caves, this is the perfect place to combine tapas and a live flamenco show.

 

Realejo-San Matías route

 

Traditional Jewish Quarter: The Realejo offers a more authentic and less touristy tapas experience. Hidden bars with history mingle with the modernity of the area, ideal for those looking for a relaxed and local atmosphere.

 

Themed and gourmet routes

 

Signature and fusion tapas: In places like Babel World Fusion and Bella Kurva (located in central areas), you will find proposals that reinvent tapas, combining international flavours and modern techniques without losing the Granada touch.

 

Is it possible to do a tapas route by bike?

 

Of course, you just have to make sure that the place has a terrace so you can enjoy the tapas while keeping an eye on your bike, as theft or robbery in the street is very common in Granada. Another recommendation is that if you are going to ride afterwards you should drink non-alcoholic beverages. Ebikes ForTwo can prepare a route for you to enjoy tapas in terraces.

Are you up for it?