Best tips for eating in Spain

Ordering food in Spain can be a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your dining experience:

1. Learn Some Basic Spanish Phrases: Even if it's just "hello (hola)", "please (por favor)", "thank you (gracias)", and "goodbye (adiós)" making an effort to speak some Spanish can go a long way in communicating your preferences and showing respect to the locals. We bet you already know the "Una cerveza, por favor" ;D

2. Understand Spanish Meal Times: This is probably the most important one, Spaniards typically eat lunch between 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm and dinner between 8:30 pm and 10:30 pm. Keep this in mind to avoid finding closed restaurants during off-hours.

3. Order a "Tinto de verano" for drinking: You can be sure that when waiter asks you what would you like to drink, you ask him a "Tinto de verano, por favor", he/she will automatically remove the 'tourist label' from you. If after ordering it, waiter asks you "with lemon or soda"? Go for the lemon one, it is in our opinion the best and most common one. Tinto de verano is a very refreshing drink also, ideal for summer (but you can also order it during winter). It only has a bit of alcohol (wine).

4. Try Local Specialties: Spain is famous for its regional cuisines. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like paella in Valencia, tapas in Andalusia, or pintxos in the Basque Country.

5. Be Open to Sharing: In many Spanish restaurants, especially when ordering tapas, it's common to share dishes with your dining companions. Embrace this communal dining experience and order a variety of dishes to try.

6. Respect Local Customs: Spaniards often take their time with meals, savoring each course and enjoying the company of friends and family. Avoid rushing through your meal and instead relax and enjoy the experience.

7. Ask About Water Options: In Spain, it's common to order bottled water with your meal. However, tap water is usually safe to drink in most places. If you prefer tap water, ask for "agua del grifo."

8. Know the Tipping Etiquette: Tipping in Spain is not as common or expected as it is in some other countries, but leaving a small tip (around 5-10%) for good service is appreciated.

9. Be Adventurous with Wine: Spain is renowned for its wine, so don't hesitate to explore the local selections. Ask your waiter for recommendations based on your taste preferences and the dishes you've ordered.

10. Be Patient and Polite: Service in Spain can sometimes be slower compared to other countries, especially during busy times. Practice patience and be polite to the staff, and you'll likely receive better service in return.

11. Enjoy the Experience: Dining in Spain is not just about the food; it's about enjoying the atmosphere, the company, and the culture. Relax, savor each bite, and immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Spain.