Tapas at the Lighthouse in Oxford

Origins of Tapas

One popular legend suggests that King Alfonso (X) the Wise of Spain was once stricken with a grave illness. In that condition he was prescribed to have small snacks with a measure of wine between meals. The King credited this dietary regime with his recovery and decreed that all pubs and taverns must serve a small snack with wine.

Another legend states that while on a visit to the sandy city of Cadiz, King Alfonso XIII was served a cup of wine with a slice of cured meat serving as a lid (or tapa). This was done so as to shield the wine from the sandy winds of Cadiz. Having consumed the wine and meat, the King went on to order another cup of wine with a lid and so tapas were born.

Yet another legend references King Felipe III who, in trying to keep communal order, decreed that all alcohol in pubs and taverns must be served with a lid of some food. This legal intrusion into personal diet was apparently designed to counter the effects of alcohol on empty stomachs.

The Idea of Tapas

In Spain, people “go out” for tapas in a group. The activity may involve visiting one particular bar or several. The idea being that several courses of small plates and accompanying beverages serve as a full dinner. A key component of the eating and drinking is that it is done in a group. Whether it is a family evening or a social gathering of friends, consumption is to be paired with conversation. The large selection and smaller portions encourage sharing with the additional delight of sampling a diversity of flavours and tastes.

The Evolution of Tapas and the Lighthouse

Spain is possibly the most obvious example of small plates and sharing meals. There are other cultures and cuisines which also incorporate a degree of tasting plates and shared dining.

At the Lighthouse in Oxford, we have created a tapas menu which combines some classic Spanish tapas with other contemporary and international influences.