Two to tapas

The word ‘tapas’ is derived from the Spanish verb ‘tapar’, which means 'to cover'. Originally, tapas was slices of meat used by drinkers in the taverns of Andalusia to cover their glasses and discourage fruit flies. Landlords also tended towards meat that was salty, such as chorizo, to encourage the punters to drink more.

Many of the cafes and restaurants along the seafront of Las Americas have tapas menus but individual dishes cost around €5-6 each so are not particularly cost effective unless you are in a larger group. However, The Castle restaurant and tapas bar offers a sharer platter at just €9.50 for 2 people.

The restaurant has two outdoor seating areas, one at the front and a second raised area at the back, which can be reached via a spiral staircase inside the turret.

The platter consists of grilled whole sardines, cheese croquettes, Spanish meatballs, tomato and onion salad on garlic bread, crispy chicken wings and omelette slices. As far as lunch goes, it is spot on – the meatballs have a little spice, the sardines have a nice char-grilled coating and the croquettes are melt-in-your-mouth cheesy. It’s fresh, light and filling all at the same time.

I imagine that The Castle prides itself on value for money. On arrival, we checked that the price advertised was per platter as opposed to per person (often the price of paella is quoted pp but based on a minimum of 2 people sharing). The promotions lady said ‘yes, €9.50 for 2 people’ but is still seemed a little vague. To confirm, we rephrased the question, ‘so not €9.50 each?’

“No!”, she exclaimed, then gave a double take and added, “Are you crazy?”

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