Tapas is the name for a wide variety of appetizers or snacks in Spanish cuisine.  They are perfect for when you’re out with a group and want to have some of everything on the menu.  This cuisine style is social, appetizing and definitely affordable.

Cashmere is an upscale martini and tapas lounge located in the heart of downtown Raleigh’s Glenwood South district.  It offers a decadent tapas menu that includes delicious cheeses plates, a shrimp cocktail, wild herb and goat cheese stuffed mushrooms, sushi, and lamb and beef Mediterranean meatballs. If your mouth isn’t watering already, then view the whole menu.

At Humble Pie, the tapas portions are smaller than entrees but larger than humble. This tapas bar puts a gourmet spin on its shareable dishes, with menu items such as black bean crepes, tuna tostadas, shrimp and grits, and mini crab cakes. They also have a wonderful brunch menu that will get your Sunday off to a delicious start.

For a true Spanish-influenced tapas experience, visit Red Room Tapas Lounge on Glenwood South.  Their delicious tapas can be paired with some stellar sangria from their extensive drink list.  Red Room also serves flatbreads, entrees and paella for anyone who wants to venture outside of the tapas experience.

For a comprehensive list of restaurants offering tapas in Raleigh, visit this site.