Seville

🍤

Tapas

Sections

What Are Tapas?

Tapas are small, shareable dishes that can be served hot or cold. They are not just a type of food but a way of eating and socializing. In Seville, tapas are more than a meal—they are a cultural experience. Locals often hop from bar to bar, sampling different tapas and enjoying drinks with friends or family.

Types of Tapas in Seville

Tapas in Seville are incredibly diverse, reflecting the region's rich culinary heritage. They can be categorized into vegetarian, seafood, and meat-based dishes, with some fusion or modern variations available in contemporary tapas bars.

1. Vegetarian Tapas

  • Espinacas con Garbanzos: A hearty dish of spinach and chickpeas, often spiced with cumin and garlic.
  • Tortilla Española: A classic Spanish potato and onion omelet, served in small slices.
  • Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers, fried and sprinkled with sea salt. Some are mild, while others can be surprisingly spicy.
  • Salmorejo: A cold, creamy tomato soup made with bread, olive oil, and garlic, often garnished with hard-boiled egg and jamón (can be omitted for vegetarians).

2. Seafood Tapas

  • Gambas al Ajillo: Shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic and chili, served sizzling in a clay dish.
  • Boquerones en Vinagre: Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, olive oil, and garlic.
  • Chocos Fritos: Fried cuttlefish, similar to calamari but with a slightly firmer texture.
  • Atún con Tomate: Tuna cooked in a rich tomato sauce.

3. Meat-Based Tapas

  • Jamón Ibérico: Thinly sliced cured Iberian ham, often served with bread or on its own.
  • Carrillada de Cerdo: Slow-cooked pork cheeks in a rich, flavorful sauce.
  • Albóndigas: Spanish-style meatballs, typically served in a tomato or almond sauce.
  • Solomillo al Whisky: Pork tenderloin cooked in a whisky and garlic sauce.

4. Modern or Fusion Tapas

  • Many tapas bars in Seville now offer creative takes on traditional dishes, such as foie gras with caramelized onions or goat cheese with honey and nuts.

Typical Costs of Tapas in Seville

Tapas are generally affordable, making them a great option for trying a variety of dishes without breaking the bank. Prices can vary depending on the location and the type of establishment.

  • Traditional Bars: €2–€4 per tapa
  • Modern or Upscale Tapas Bars: €4–€8 per tapa
  • Raciones (Larger Portions): €8–€15 (ideal for sharing)

Drinks such as beer (cerveza), wine, or sherry (fino or manzanilla) are often reasonably priced, ranging from €1.50 to €3 per glass.

How to Order Tapas in Seville

Ordering tapas in Seville is straightforward, but there are a few customs and tips to keep in mind:

  1. Bar Hopping (Tapeo): It’s common to visit multiple bars in one evening, trying a few tapas at each place. This is known as "ir de tapas."
  2. Start at the Bar: Many locals prefer to stand at the bar while eating tapas, as it’s considered more authentic. However, most places also have tables if you prefer to sit.
  3. Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for their specialties or the most popular dishes. Many bars have a "tapa del día" (tapa of the day).
  4. Order Gradually: Instead of ordering everything at once, start with one or two tapas and see how you feel. This allows you to sample a wider variety of dishes.
  5. Share with Friends: Tapas are meant to be shared, so order a few different dishes for the table and enjoy them together.
  6. Be Patient: Tapas are often made fresh to order, so they may take some time to arrive.

Dining Customs and Etiquette

  • Timing: Tapas bars typically open for lunch (1:00 PM–4:00 PM) and dinner (8:00 PM–midnight). The busiest times are around 2:00 PM for lunch and 9:00 PM for dinner.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but leaving small change (5–10% of the bill) is appreciated if you’ve received good service.
  • Napkins on the Floor: In traditional tapas bars, it’s common to see used napkins on the floor. This is not considered rude; it’s just part of the local culture.
  • Drinks and Tapas Pairing: Pair your tapas with a local drink. Try a glass of fino or manzanilla sherry, a cold beer, or a tinto de verano (red wine mixed with soda water).

Top Tapas Bars in Seville

Here are some highly recommended tapas bars to visit:

  1. El Rinconcillo (Calle Gerona, 40): The oldest tapas bar in Seville, dating back to 1670. Known for its traditional Andalusian dishes.
  2. Bodeguita Romero (Calle Harinas, 10): Famous for its "pringá" montadito (a small sandwich with slow-cooked meat).
  3. La Azotea (Multiple Locations): A modern tapas bar offering creative and high-quality dishes.
  4. Eslava (Calle Eslava, 3): Known for its award-winning tapas, such as the honey-glazed pork ribs.
  5. Casa Morales (Calle García de Vinuesa, 11): A historic bar with a great selection of traditional tapas and wines.

Final Tips for Enjoying Tapas in Seville

  • Go Local: Look for bars filled with locals rather than tourists. These are often the best spots for authentic tapas.
  • Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try something new or unfamiliar. Tapas are small, so it’s a low-risk way to explore new flavors.
  • Pace Yourself: Tapas are meant to be enjoyed leisurely. Take your time, savor the food, and soak in the atmosphere.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the rich and diverse tapas culture of Seville. ¡Buen provecho!