Pincho

A pincho, also known as a pintxo or pinchu, is a delightful small snack commonly found in bars throughout northern Spain, particularly in regions such as La Rioja, Cantabria, Asturias, the Basque Country, and Navarra. These tasty morsels are typically enjoyed with friends or family, making them a social staple when dining out.

While pinchos are similar to tapas, they have their own unique twist: they are typically skewered with a toothpick or small skewer through a piece of bread. Unlike tapas, pinchos are served individually and ordered separately from drinks. The meaning of the term "pincho" can vary depending on where you are in Spain.

In the Basque Country and Navarra, pinchos are an essential part of the local culture, often served as appetizers alongside young white wine or beer. These pinchos usually consist of small slices of bread topped with a variety of ingredients, all held together by a toothpick. The toothpick not only keeps the ingredients in place but also helps tally up how many you've eaten. Common toppings include fish, tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette), stuffed peppers, and croquettes. Pinchos can range from simple to elaborate, featuring anything from basic ingredients to luxurious seafood, meats, or fish.

One of the best aspects of pinchos is the social experience. Groups of friends often hop from one tavern to another, sampling different pinchos and enjoying drinks along the way. There's also a specific type of pincho called "pinchos morunos" which are skewered and roasted marinated meat pieces.