What Are Tapas? "Tapas" (sometimes considered little appetizers), originated in Spain over a century ago, most likely in A...ndalusia. Andalusia is the home of Sherry, and customers and travelers were given pieces of bread to cover the glasses ("tapa" means lid or cover). This led to Innkeepers adding ham, sausage, seafood, or cheese to the bread. Today in Spain, tapas have evolved into a...