THE ORIGIN OF TAPAS

Tapas today are without question the most international element of Spanish cuisine, having become an exclusive culinary category, and we shouldn’t be surprised. There is something incredibly satisfying about enjoying a bite of something delicious alongside a cold beverage and while we were making do with the salted peanut or crisp in Britain, the Spanish were revolutionizing the art of savory snacking.

So where did tapas come from? Why are they called tapas and who invented them?

There are many different explanations surrounding the origin of tapas, many of which involve medieval kings and other historic figures. Although most accounts claim it originated in Andalucía, different regions of Spain all individually claim to be the birthplace of this popular Spanish tradition. Perhaps one of the most important clues to understanding the mystery is the origin of the word itself. The word tapas means ‘lid’ and comes from the verb tapear, meaning ‘to cover’. Many people say that the custom of tapas came about when bar keepers began covering their customers’ drinks with a slice of bread, ham or cheese to stop flies and dust from

Another theory suggests that the origin of tapas comes from the fields and workshops of the Middle-Ages. Workers that would labor from dawn till dusk would only take short breaks to avoid wasting precious daylight. Their lunch would consist of something quick, easy and inexpensive (slices of sausage, olives, chickpeas etc.) to keep them going.

Whether there is any truth in these accounts, we don’t know, but whatever the origins, the art of tapas will keep evolving and Barceloneta, Restaurant  continue to create fresh, exciting and sophisticated tapas!

OCTOBER SPECIALS AT BARCELONETA RESTAURANT ESTABLISHED IN 1990

Celebrate this CHRISTMAS at Barceloneta

This winter holiday season, join us for a festive culinary journey with our exclusive Christmas menu!
Indulge in a delightful selection of seasonal dishes crafted to celebrate the spirit of togetherness and joy with a variety of Tapas festive dishes.
Don’t forget to leave room for desserts!
Gather your loved ones and create unforgettable memories around our table this Christmas. Book your spot now as the demand is very high and slots are filling quickly. Let’s make this holiday season truly special!

We are open

Sunday – Thursday 5:30 pm – 9: 30 pm 
Friday – Saturday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm 

To book, email ‘ info@barcelonetarestaurant.co.uk 

or call us on 0116 270 8408 or you can visit our website

Gift Voucher

Barceloneta introduces our exclusive gift vouchers, perfect for sharing joy with friends and family! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to show you care, our gift vouchers offer a thoughful and flexible way to treat your loved ones. 

Chef Special of the week

Earthy, rich and full of flavour ‘Country rice’ with Wild Mushroom, infused with Manzanilla wine and topped with Manchego cheese.

Sangria

At Barceloneta Restaurant, we serve our finest most popular refreshing beverage ‘SANGRIA’ which makes a great drink for any weather, especially during the warm summer’s.
Freshly prepared with citrus fruits, green apples and a variety of other delicious fruits and wine that will take you back to the authentic taste of Spain.
Enjoy your meal at Barceloneta Restaurant and pair it with this refreshing drink , you won’t be disappointed.

Special Discount for NHS Staff 

As a way of thanking the NHS staff for your service, we are offering a 10% discount on the final bill up-to table of 4 people  Sunday – Thursday (only for food)

Barceloneta Express Menu

Join us for our Express Menu, available from Monday – Wednesday! Enjoy delicious, quick meals designed for those on the go, without compromising on flavour. 

Looking for a speedy dinner option, our carefully curated dishes are here to satisfy your cravings. 

Don’t miss out on this tasty experience!

JOIN THE BARCELONETA

IN THE POPULAR SUBURB OF CLARENDON PARK, JUST ROUND THE CORNER FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER, AND A SHORT WALK INTO THE CITY’S CENTRE, SITS BARCELONETA. ESTABLISHED IN 1990, THE RESTAURANT SERVES AUTHENTIC MEDITERRANEAN AND SPANISH TAPAS SPECIALTIES, INCLUDING WINES, LIQUEURS AND APERITIFS.

Address:
Barceloneta, 54 Queen’s Rd,
Clarendon Park, Leicester, LE2 1TU.

Telephone:
Tell Us: 0116 270 8408
Mob: 0740 531 7594

Email:
info@barcelonetarestaurant.co.uk