Monday, July 25, 2011

PICK UP STICKS



A visit to Spain wouldn't be complete without at least briefly touching on the fantastic epicurian experience waiting for you. I threw my diet out the window the day we arrived without regret as we passed storefront windows filled with glistening Serrano ham and barrels of stuffed green olives. Spain is an epicurean nirvana-a place to taste, try and enjoy with reckless abandonment. I loved the concept of the tapas--really just a small plate or canape with something delicious on top. The small portions allowed you to try several different tapas without the bulk or commitment of a big meal. After working our way through the tapas of Madrid, Seville and Marbella, I found my favorite haunt on the last leg of our trip in beautiful Barcelona. Walking through the narrow streets of the old city one night we came upon a tapas bar bustling with people flowing out into the street.  We elbowed our way into Sagardi and was handed a plate from the bartender. Dozens of small tapas lined the bar elegantly dressed with Iberian ham, potato frittata, fresh tuna and hot croquettes. The tapas were all skewered with a wooden toothpick--take what you please and leave the toothpick on your plate.  After you've had your fill, the bartender counts your toothpicks and bills you 1.80 euro for each tapas. Brilliant!  Most of the chic hipsters  had three or four tapas as a starter before they went for dinner.  We enjoyed trying each of the tapas so much that we ate our dinner there--the telltale mound of wooden toothpicks a reminder of our delicious dinner!








6 comments:

The enchanted home said...

This is heaven! I can almost smell the aroma of the fabulous tapas treats..thank you taking us along through pictures..next best thing to being there:)

Splendid Sass said...

Looks wonderful, barbara!
Teresa
xoxo

jeanette from everton terrace said...

What fun! I think even this vegetarian would enjoy it :)

Stephanie @ La Dolce Vita said...

it looks sooo good! I want to go!!

Hamptontoes said...

I love tapas, they make for such a fun dining experience! Also, love that you are having such a fun filled summer exploring the globe. Will you in the Hamptons at all this summer? Would love to see you.

Vannessa@Luxuria said...

Fabulous photos Barbara. I could smell the "jamon" from here. Tapas has become a hobby of mine and Hubby since moving to Spain. In fact, I find it much better to have a few tapas for dinner, than a heavy meal. So I can usually eat with a clear conscience ;-)