We love going out for lunch and having the menu del dia. This is mainly for two reasons: one is the great value for money it offers, the price is usually between 10 and 12 euros, and includes a minimum of three courses and a drink! And secondly, it gives us the chance to taste the food in a restaurant or bar to see what the quality is like.
Quite often, we have tried a place to eat, had lunch there, or even a menu del noche and then gone back again to try other items off the menu. One important thing to remember if you are planning to eat out at lunchtime and want to sample these types of set meals is that they are generally not served on a weekend or on public holidays.
So, you’re ready to dive into the delicious world of Spanish cuisine? Well, get ready to feast your taste buds on the el menu del dia, a beloved dining tradition in Spain.
This culinary gem is a fixed-price menu that offers multiple courses, from tantalizing starters to mouthwatering main courses and delectable desserts. And the best part? It won’t break the bank!
With its affordable price and convenient lunchtime availability, the Menu del Dia is a must-try experience for locals and visitors alike. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Spain like a true connoisseur!
The Origins of Menu Del Dia
You’ll be interested to know that the origins of the menu del dia can be traced back to the late 1950s. It all started when the Spanish government saw the opportunity to capitalize on the booming tourism industry.
Manuel Fraga, the Minister of Information and Tourism at the time, devised a plan to offer a fixed price menu to all visitors to Spain. This menu, known as El Menu Turistico, aimed to provide tourists with a taste of Spanish cuisine at an affordable price. On March 17, 1965, the menu was officially introduced and became a legal requirement for all restaurants in the country.
Although initially targeted towards tourists, the menu del dia quickly gained popularity among the locals as well. It offered a convenient and inexpensive way to have a quick lunch. No matter where you were in the country, you could always find the menu del dia available in every town and city. By the 1970s, it had become a staple of Spanish culture and was widely known as el Menu del Dia.
Today, the menu del dia remains just as popular as when it was first introduced. It continues to provide both tourists and locals with an affordable and delicious option for lunch.
A Typical Menu Del Dia Experience
When it comes to a typical Menu Del Dia experience, there are several key points to consider.
Firstly, the salad, which is often served as a starter, is usually a fresh and light combination of vegetables.
Moving on to the starter, known as ‘El Primer Plato,’ you can expect a delicious smaller plate to whet the appetite.
As for ‘El Segundo Plato,’ it usually offers a choice between meat or fish, occasionally with a vegetarian options also available.
Finally, the dessert, or ‘El Postre,’ is typically a custard-based flan, tart, or pudding, with the option of fruit as a lighter alternative. In some places, there is a choice between either a dessert or a coffee.
And of course, don’t forget to enjoy a refreshing drink alongside your meal.
Salad:
The salad is usually included as a starter in the el menu de dia at some restaurants. It’s a refreshing way to begin your meal and prepare your palate for the main course.
The salad typically consists of fresh, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and sometimes other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. It’s not usual to have a heavy cream-based dressing with it, but you’ll find balsamic vinegar on the table as a refreshing and light option. Bread is often included and will be served with this course
The salad is meant to be shared among the diners at the table, creating a communal and convivial atmosphere. It’s a great way to start your meal on a healthy note and add some variety to your dining experience.
El Primer Plato:
Here you’ll be able to choose between two or three dishes. These are usually a soup such as Gazpacho, a meat dish, a fish dish. If there is not a complimentary salad to start, often the first course may have a salad option too.
For your first course, try the Gazpacho, a refreshing and flavorful soup that will awaken your taste buds. This traditional Spanish soup is made with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, blended with olive oil, vinegar, and garlic. It is served cold, making it perfect for hot summer days.
The Gazpacho is known for its vibrant red color and its refreshing taste. Each spoonful is a burst of flavors that will tantalize your palate. The combination of the ripe tomatoes with the tangy vinegar and the subtle hint of garlic creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and light.
El Segundo Plato:
The second course, or ‘El Segundo Plato,’ is an important part of the menu del dia in Spanish culture. Typically, the second course includes three to five dishes with sides, offering a mix of meat and fish options. Choose from a variety of delicious options for your second course, often including paella, a classic Spanish rice dish mixed with flavorful ingredients like seafood, chicken, and vegetables.
El Postre:
When you finish your main course, don’t forget to save room for a delectable dessert like fresh fruit, a flan, or a rice-based pudding. I’ll usually opt for watermelon or melon or from time to time will choose Tarta de whisky – cake soaked in whiskey.
In Spanish culture, the menu del dia often includes one or two dessert selections. It is a common practice for restaurants to offer options such as a tart or a creamy flan or rice pudding. Some establishments may offer coffee as an alternative or it may be included in the price.
These sweet treats are the perfect way to end your meal on a satisfying note. Whether you prefer the refreshing taste of fresh fruit or the indulgence of a rich pudding, the dessert options are sure to please your palate.
Drinks:
Don’t forget to try a glass of water, beer, or wine with your meal at a Spanish restaurant. In Spanish culture, drinks are an important part of the dining experience. When you order the menu del dia, a glass of water, beer, or wine is often included. It is a great way to complement the flavors of your meal and enhance your overall dining experience.
Whether you prefer a refreshing glass of water, a crisp beer, or a glass of wine to savor, there is a drink option for everyone.
The Importance of Menu Del Dia in Spanish Cuisine
If you’re in Spain, you’ll find that the menu del dia is highly regarded in Spanish cuisine. This daily menu is not only a popular choice for locals, but also for tourists looking to experience traditional Spanish food.
The menu del dia is an affordable and convenient way to enjoy a complete meal during the midday. It typically includes a variety of dishes, such as soup or salad, bread, a main course with a side dish, dessert, and coffee. The best part is that wine or water is included in the price. With two or more options available for each course, you can choose the dishes that suit your taste preferences.
The menu del dia is not only known for its delicious food, but also for its generous portions. You won’t leave the table feeling hungry, as the portions are usually quite filling. This makes it a great option for those who want to have a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Furthermore, the menu del dia is a reflection of Spanish culture and culinary traditions. It showcases the diversity and richness of Spanish cuisine, with each region putting its own unique twist on the menu. Whether you’re in Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville, you can expect to find regional specialties on the menu del dia. It’s a great way to explore the local flavors and discover new dishes.
How to Order Menu Del Dia Like a Local
If you’re planning to try the menu del dia in Spain, there are a few expectations you should be aware of.
First, keep in mind that the menu del dia is typically not available on weekends or public holidays.
Additionally, the menu del dia may differ slightly from the menu del noche served in the evening. So, make sure to adjust your expectations accordingly when ordering.
El Menu Del Dia Expectations
When ordering the menú del día, make sure to ask the waiter for the options available for the first and second course.
The menu typically consists of three courses: El Primer Plato, where you can choose from a selection of dishes such as salads, soups, or small rice, beans, or pasta dishes.
For the second course, you will have options like meat or fish dishes, and sometimes a vegetarian option. It’s always a good idea to ask about any vegetarian or vegan options if that is your preference.
The desserts can vary widely, ranging from homemade creations to more traditional choices.
Keep in mind that the menu changes daily based on the chef’s preferences and the availability of ingredients. So don’t be surprised if you don’t see a printed menu, just ask the waiter for the offerings of the day.
Regional Variations of Menu Del Dia
You should try the regional variations of the Menu Del Dia to experience different flavors and dishes. Each region in Spain has its own unique culinary traditions and specialties, and the Menu Del Dia is a great way to sample them.
In the Basque Country, for example, you might find dishes like bacalao al pil pil (cod in garlic and olive oil sauce) or txangurro (spider crab).
In Andalusia, you can enjoy traditional dishes like gazpacho (cold tomato soup) or rabo de toro (bull’s tail stew).
Catalonia offers delicious options such as escalivada (roasted vegetables) or botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans).
In Galicia, you can savor pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) or empanada gallega (Galician pie filled with seafood or meat).
And in Valencia, you must try paella, the iconic rice dish that originated in this region.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Menu Del Dia
If you’re looking to make the most of your dining experience in Spain, it’s important to consider the quality of the food and the popularity of the restaurant among locals. One way to ensure a satisfying meal is to look for restaurants that offer a menu del dia. These menus are typically printed on a board and offer a selection of dishes made with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The menu del dia is a culinary tradition in Spanish culture and is a great way to experience authentic and delicious cuisine.
To get the most out of your menu del dia experience, it’s recommended to consult locals or observe where the crowds go. If you see a restaurant filling up at 1:30 p.m., it’s a good sign that the food is exceptional. People are hurrying there to secure a table because it’s that good. On the other hand, if it’s 2:30 or 3 p.m. and there are many open tables, it may be an indication that the restaurant is not the best choice.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the menu del dia is usually not available on weekends or public holidays. Instead, restaurants may offer a slightly different menu called the menu del noche in the evenings. So, plan your dining experience accordingly to make the most of the menu del dia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Menu Del Dia Available on Weekends and Public Holidays?
The menu del dia is not available on weekends or public holidays. It differs slightly from the menu del noche served in the evening. So no, the menu del dia is not available on weekends and public holidays.
How Does the Menu Del Dia Differ From the Menu Del Noche?
The menu del dia and menu del noche may seem similar, but they have their differences. Let’s focus on how they differ from each other without considering the context of Spanish culture.
What Are Some Commonly Asked Questions About the Origins of the Menu Del Dia?
What’s the origin of the menu del dia? People often wonder about its roots. The menu del dia is a popular lunch option in Spain, typically offering a fixed price and a variety of dishes.
Are There Any Specific Customs or Etiquette to Keep in Mind When Ordering the Menu Del Dia?
When ordering the menu del dia, keep in mind that there are no specific customs or etiquette to follow. Just make sure to check if it’s available on weekends or public holidays and be aware of any differences from the menu del noche.
Can You Provide Examples of Regional Variations of the Menu Del Dia?
Sure! Regional variations of the menu del dia in Spain can include dishes like paella in Valencia, gazpacho in Andalusia, and pintxos in the Basque Country. Each region has its own delicious specialties!
Conclusion
So, the next time you find yourself in Spain, don’t miss out on the Menu del Dia experience! It’s not just a meal, but a journey through the rich culinary heritage of the country.
From the origins of this tradition to the regional variations, every bite tells a story. So, go ahead and immerse yourself in the flavors, the history, and the culture.
Trust me, it’ll be an experience you won’t forget! So, grab a seat, order your Menu del Dia, and let your taste buds embark on a delicious adventure.
¡Buen provecho!
