A wide variety of finger foods that are called Tapas are originated in Spain. They include appetizers, snacks, canapés and many others that are served either hot or cold. The name comes from the Spanish word tapar meaning “to cover.” In Central America they are called bocas while in Mexico similar items are known as botanas. According to sources, it originated in the Spanish region of Andalusia in taverns covering the glasses full of sherry from fruit flies. Originally they used ham or chorizo which was cleverly used to get the drinkers to drink more due to the salt content. Later bars started to serve wide variety of other items as tapas.
Today in Spain as well as many other countries, variety of tapas are served that people can make a full meal out of it. They promote conversation among people in the bar and allow people to carry it around the bar. In some traditional bars in Spain, tapas are served to eat while standing only. Many bars serve one tapas free with each drink but today you can order variety of tapas with your drinks. Tapas bars are getting more popular in the West with food lovers.