LaBelle is holding up two of many of the different types of tapas, these are smoked quail ravoli and creme crab stuffed crepes. The State News Tapas bar-hopping may be common in Spain, but around here tapas can only be found at the Evergreen Grill. Originally, a tapa was a bit of food on a saucer which was placed on top of a glass of wine to keep flies out.
Customers can also get a free tapas plate with the purchase of a glass of wine.
Mary Welsh, owner of the grill, said many customers do not order a regular meal but have courses of tapas, which are about half the size of a normal appetizer and are served hot or cold. LaBelle said although some tapas are heavily Spanish-oriented, they are not all traditional Spanish foods. For example, some are made in a Japanese style, using Japanese vegetables, ideas and techniques, he said. Examples of past tapas are beef tenderloin, chicken kabobs, creamed crab stuffed crepes and smoked quail ravioli. I try to experiment with a lot of flavors.