The Associació d’Empreses d’Hostaleria de la Província de Tarragona (AEHT) has opened applications for the third edition of its Tapa, Pintxo, and Tastet Competition. This initiative aims to recognise the best gastronomic creations from bars and restaurants across Tarragona province.
The winning tapa will represent Tarragona province at the National Tapas and Pinchos Championship at Madrid Fusión. This national event is organised by Hostelería de España and sponsored by Makro.
Establishments from across the province will submit their proposals. An expert jury will evaluate these entries based on originality, presentation, flavour, and the use of local products.
New rules for wider participation
For the first time, this year's competition will allow associated establishments in municipalities without an AEHT tapa route to participate. This expansion aims to give greater visibility to bars and restaurants throughout the territory and strengthen the provincial character of the competition, according to the AEHT.
Local businesses already taking part in AEHT tapa routes, such as Tasta Salou, Tastum Cambrils, Tastem Torredembarra, Tastets de Tarragona, Tapa Reus, and Dgusta Vila-seca, will automatically compete with the tapa they serve during the events on 11 and 12 June.
Establishments in towns without a specific route can apply by sending a photograph and a detailed description of their tapa, including ingredients and cost breakdown, to the association's email by 14 June.
Final and past winners
Selected semi-finalists will compete in the grand final on 6 July at the Aula AEHT. The winning tapa will be announced during the entity's 49th annual dinner.
The first edition of the competition awarded the "Gamba Dog" from L’Original Experiències Gastronòmiques, created by Joan Llaberia in Cambrils. The second edition recognised the "Fals nigiri de calamar y gamba roja de Tarragona" by chef Mikel Astorga, from the Cuatro Makis restaurant in Torredembarra.
