A chef prepares paella during a press briefing held on June 3 to introduce World Tapas Day in Việt Nam. VNS Photo Minh Thu

HÀ NỘI — Spanish cuisine will be introduced in 24 restaurants in Hà Nội, Đà Nẵng and HCM City on World Tapas Day on June 20. Some restaurants participating to the programme include El Loco Tapasbar (Hà Nội), Ole Spain Restaurant (Đà Nẵng) and Octo Tapas Restobar (HCM City).

Spanish Ambassador Maria Jesus Figa said this is a good chance to celebrate the cuisine of Spain.
“The restaurants will prepare special offers so that you can try some of the best tapas in Việt Nam,” she said.

Tapas are small portions of food served together with a drink. In Spain often you can order a drink and the bar will treat you to a small 'tapa' for free, said Figa.
“Legend of this dish is originated since the 13th century when King Alfonso X started this tradition. He decreed that all wine served should come with a small bite to eat, to avoid unruly drunkenness.

“Taverns started serving their wine glasses covered with a slice of bread with ham or cheese on top as a lid or 'tapa', which also helped keep insects away. That is how tapas were born.

“Today the tradition remains. Going out for tapas, visiting several bars and restaurants, is one of the favourite pastimes of Spanish families and groups’ of friends.

“The event is a great opportunity to learn about Spanish culture and gastronomy while trying exclusive tapas carefully prepared by the best Spanish restaurants in big cities.

"We believe that through cuisine, we can approach different cultures naturally and easily," she said.

On the occasion, competitions will be organised on Facebook to encourage people to find out about Spanish culture and gastronomy.

A 'Tapa Passport' can be collected for free in any of the restaurants participating on this event. Each time customers buys tapas at these restaurants, they will get a stamp. With 10 stamps collected, they will participate in a gift draw with prizes including flights to Spain, Spanish products, nights in Melia Hotels or free dinners in Spanish restaurants.

Every year, Spain receives about 80 million tourists from around the world, with cuisine one of the main attractions. — VNS