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| The history of tapas, dates back to the Middle Ages, when field workers would take a small meal with them into the fields, meant to be eaten as they worked, or on a short break.
Although details are not confirmed, some say tapas was born when due to an illness, the Spanish King, Alfonso the Wise, had to take small bites of food with some wine between meals and once he recovered from this illness, his royal decree was that wine served in any of the inns and taverns must be accompanied by something to eat.
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| Another story involved empty plates, when bartenders would cover wine glasses with small plates to protect the drink from fruit flies, then eventually, they covered the glasses with a slice of ham - which appealed to their customers, so bar owners began varying tapas on these empty plates and that was how, some say, how tapas started.
Many countries have comparable tiny starter-size dishes, like antipasto in Italy, hors d'oeuvres in France, dim sum in China,
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and meze in Greece or Turkey, but tapas are more than just finger foods and appetizers.
A tapa is not a particular type of food, but rather a way of eating it - and this way of eating small portions of food, where the only restriction is the chef's imagination, is really relaxing, fun and informal!
Spain is nearly all surrounded by water, so seafood and shellfish plays a huge part in the cuisine and the selection of tapas served really depends on the region of Spain.
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| In Harlem Floridita Tapas, is without a doubt, really great food and atmosphere. Although not indicative of which region their tapas were inspired - there are over 40 to choose from. The staff is ultra friendly, its great for intimate dining and perfect for group gatherings.
The décor is mature, (dark wooden bar, tables and chairs) - a bit tavern-like with an Old World charm. With six types of sangria, a full bar, wine list, fabulous tapas, there really is no way to be disappointed, plus there is live entertainment (flamenco dancers) on Fridays.
Our waiter was really knowledgeable of the menu and very attentive. It was really difficult to decide from all that they offer. Their tapas range from $4-$16. They also have the option to choose 5 for $14.95 / add a half pitcher of Sangria for an extra $10.
So, you can just imagine our dilemma. Our waiter was very gracious, and we finally decided on 10 different tapas to share - and we had a salad as well - you must have your greens daily!
Chorizo a la Plancha (grilled Spanish sausage), Chorizo Salteado con Cebolla (cured Spanish sausage sauteed with onions), Calamar Frito (fried calamari), Gambas Al Ajillo (shrimp sauteed in garlic and virgin olive oil), Pulpo Vinagreta (octopus in a vinaigrette), Gambas a la Plancha (grilled shrimp), Croquetas de Pollo (chicken croquettes), Chicharron de Bacalao (fried chunk of fresh cod), Scallops a la Plancha (grilled scallops) and Chicharron de Pollo (fried chicken chunks).
I have no complaints about any of them - although I am not a huge fan of cod…they were all delicious!
Believe me once you start eating tapas, you won't stop until you're full - and if your eyes are bigger than your tummy (like mine) you will be sampling a huge array of these tiny tasty bites. I can't think of a better way of bringing people together and encouraging conversation!
So, whatever the true origin of tapas, and if you choose one or many, enjoy them like the Spanish do - with a glass of wine and a relaxed attitude!
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Floridita Tapas
3219 Broadway
New York, NY 10027
646-755-9355
212-662-0225 |
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Visiting NYC and wondering where to eat? Perhaps Ms. Kwan has an answer for you
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