For many years, I was known for hosting “appetizer parties,” because, in all honesty, putting together main dishes for large groups was a surefire way to send me spiraling. Then, in college, my eyes were opened to the world of Spanish tapas when I visited Barsa in Charleston. Finally, a way of gathering that encourages simple, small plates shared across the table. Since then, I’ve loved exploring the expansion of tapas culture and restaurants within the American South, including two standout favorites of mine: Cúrate in Asheville and Malagón in Charleston.
When I saw the release for Tapas España, a new tapas-centric cookbook by Catherine Cogliandro Alioto releasing March 24, 2026, I knew it was going to become my hosting staple.
