Salamanca: Food

Salamanca runs the gamut in regards to different types of food. Locals and visitors enjoy the vast selection of traditional restaurants from Vegetarian, Mexican, Italian, Chinese, French, Sea Food, and of course Traditional Spanish.

Fast food is always available through the large global companies as well as through the national Spanish chains. Burger joints are open all hours to offer the late-night "marcha" crowds a little sustenance after a hard night of clubbing.

Of course if you are looking for a truly light and traditional Spanish snack with a cup of coffee or other beverage then the place to go is to the bars where one can sample Tapas (snacks) which have gained international attention. Some bars have better tapas than others so choose wisely. For people on a budget and those searching for a more authentic tapas experience should try the bars outside of the Old Historic Area.

Most restaurants in Spain have a set menú del día, which is usually a good way to sample many different types of food, as well as being a good bargain. It will generally include an appetizer, bread, a main dish, dessert, and coffee or tea, and is generally only served at lunchtime.

The most popular dish in Spain is anything with pork; especially jamón serrano which is a leg of ham cured and then hung out to dry in the store window. Bacon, longanissa, and chorizo are also consumed in quite heavy numbers as well.

If you have never been to Spain you must know that the dining schedule is quite different from most American's eating habits. Breakfast is around 9:30; lunch at about 2:30-3 followed by a lengthy siesta, and finally dinner no earlier than 9p.m.

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