Seville’s spring tradition of caracoles draws locals to tapas bars
6 reported
According to an NPR report, springtime in Seville, Spain, brings the tradition of eating caracoles, or snails, at neighborhood tapas bars. The snails are smaller than French escargot and are eaten directly from the shell, cooked in a spiced broth unique to each bar. The season lasts about two months, and during this time, one bar that normally does not serve dinner opens for dinner and is packed every night. A local described the people gathered at tables as “my tribe,” highlighting the social importance of the tradition. The report notes that the neighborhood is becoming expensive due to tourism, similar to areas near the historic center.
What’s reported
Caracoles are a popular tapas in Seville during spring for about two months.
They are smaller than French escargot and eaten directly from the shell.
Each bar has a unique spiced broth for cooking the snails.
One bar that serves breakfast and lunch normally does not serve dinner, except during caracoles season.
A local friend referred to people at the tables as “my tribe.”
The neighborhood is getting expensive, like others near the historic center, due to tourism.
Key figures
Meli (bar employee, pictured)
Juan (bar employee)
Miguel (bar employee)
An unnamed old friend of the reporter
Sources: NPR
