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Tapas, Antipasti and Meze – flavourful small dishes with shared roots

Tapas originally means “lid” in Spanish and traces back to Andalusian bodegas, where a piece of bread or a slice of air-dried ham was placed over a wine glass to protect it from flies. Over time, this simple practice evolved into a strong and beloved food tradition. Today, tapas is associated with small, flavourful dishes served in smaller portions that together create a varied and inviting meal.

Although the word tapas is Spanish, the idea of small dishes exists across much of the Mediterranean and the Middle East. In Italian cuisine, these small starters are called antipasti, while in the Middle East the term meze is used. The word meze comes from the Persian “mazzeh”, meaning “to taste” – a very fitting description. What tapas, antipasti and meze share is the joy of tasting your way through many small delicacies, with simplicity, quality and ingredients at the centre.

The similarities between these cuisines are far greater than the differences. Ham, cheese, cured meats and bread recur, and olive oil plays a central role. Add vegetables like tomatoes, aubergines, peppers and garlic, which form the basis for countless variations. Whether the dishes are cold or hot, rustic or refined, they’re always full of flavour and character.

Tapas is a meal made for sharing

Tapas is made to be shared and helps create a relaxed, cosy atmosphere at the table. When food is served in small portions in the middle of the table, it invites conversation, presence and togetherness. A selection of tapas is a social and informal way to eat together, where everyone can help themselves and taste what they feel like.

A tapas menu can include everything from cheese and charcuterie to fish and seafood, vegetables, bread and small hot dishes. That makes it easy to put together something for every taste. The combination of different colours, textures and flavour notes creates an exciting, sensory experience. Tapas is rich in umami, depth and variety – and above all, lots of flavour.

Even a simple tapas menu can impress your guests and works perfectly for a party, a dinner gathering or a cosy evening at home. Tapas is food that brings people together, made to be enjoyed with those you care about.