"The Word Tapas translates as a lid and in old Spain the practice of placing a small saucer on top of a drink to keep out flies began with an order by King Alfonso X. While he was king he ordered that at all inns serve small bites of food while serving wine. He believed this would help promote good health and soon the Tapas tradition was born. Spain is a very social country where people move from one Tapas bar to another to enjoy wine tasting and often political conversations - all with a few nibbles placed on the cover plates."