Tapas

Something that many people associate with the holiday in Spain is tapas, a very popular type of finger food. But what is tapas? And where do you find the best during your golf holiday in Majorca?

The word "tapas" is a generic name for a variety of side dishes that come from all over Spain, with influences from all over the Mediterranean. The word "tapas" actually comes from the Spanish verb "tapar" which means "to fill the" / "to cover". There are different theories about how the first tapas were created, but the two most popular theories say that tapas were invented as a solution to the problem that the bars had, back in the day, with flies and insects. By simply covering over a quart of wine with a dish that you put some ham and other goodies on, you did not have to flies in the drink. The second theory says that tapas was introduced as an attempt to reduce binge drinking, when the tavern guests as well as courtiers this way were a few bites between the drinks.

Which theory is true, no one knows, but something that is true is that tapas has had an impact in the world, and accounts for a large variety of good and often nutritious side dishes that are quick to prepare. Tapas can be anything possible, plates with different kinds of cheeses and cured ham, various kinds of cooked vegetables, fried fish, seafood .. But it does not have to be complicated at all. A bowl of olives and a piece bread and a barrel with a good olive oil and salt also counts as tapas.

In this jungle of different tapas dishes, how do you know what to order? We recommend: Jamón Serrano (cured ham), Tortilla Espanola (a thick potato omelet), Calamares Fritos (fried calamari, delicious with lemon), Pimientos de Padrón (small green peppers with sea salt, fried in olive oil), Ensaladilla Rusa ("Russian salad", a creamy mixture consisting of tuna, mayonnaise, potatoes, peas, carrots ..), Gambas al ajillo (prawns fried with garlic) and croquetas (croquettes with fillings such as cod, chicken or ham).

Tapas are served on small plates. If you want a larger portion you ask for a median (1/2) or a whole ración, or you do like so many others.. Order several tapas. It is tasty, and above all very social to sit with some finger food, people watching, talking and drinking good wine.

In the Basque-country they call tapas pinxtos (pinchos). Pintxos are small pieces of bread, with something tasty on top of (omelette, ham, etc.), and a toothpick that has been run through the whole thing.

In Palma, there are plenty of tapas restaurants, but how do you know which you should try? Here you have three of our favorites, the last of which is a real hidden gem.

La Paloma

La Paloma- a well-known tapas restaurant located a short distance away from the main shopping street in Palma. Lovely atmosphere and nice decor. Perfect if you want to go out and eat, just the the two of you. The restaurant is well-attended, so we recommend that you book your table in advance. Call 971 721 745, or you can contact us, and we’ll help you book a table.

La Boveda

La Boveda- a tapas restaurant that is popular year-round residents. Go here if you fancy an authentic spanish experience. The interior is typical Spanish, with color tile batten, and hams hanging from the ceiling. Although this restaurant is well attended, especially by the Spaniards, so to reserve a table in advance is a good idea. Call 971 714 863, or you can contact us, and we’ll help you book a table.

Bar España

Bar España is tucked away just after the large (high hyping) restaurant square Plaza Mayor. In this bar/restaurant they are not used to seeing tourists, so be prepared that both serving staff and guests will give you one or two extra looks at you, if you manage to find your way here. The food is good, and the bar is well attended. It offers tapas and pinxtos. This bar is very popular, and you cannot book a table in advance. If you are lucky you’ll find a free table when you arrive, otherwise it just as fine to eat at bar. There you will also have the best view of all of the tapas and pinxtos there is to choose from. Do you want to have a look inside the restaurant? Click on this link

If after reading this you feel like coming to Majorca to enjoy the island and to play golf, have a look at our golf packages, or make your own flexible golf package! And, if you still don’t find what you are looking for, just send us an email to sales@mallorcagolftours.com or give us a call on +44 (0)20 359 838 71 and we will be happy to help you!

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