A speciality of northern Spain, these mainstays of the food scene are related to «tapas». Bigger than tapas, it is almost always served on a piece of bread with some tasty topping like fish (hake, cod or anchovy), tortilla, stuffed peppers or croquetas. Toothpicks hold it all together. That toothpick in the middle is a «pincho» or spike in Spanish…hence the name. They can become very elaborate and there are many local competitions to award prizes to the top creations. Unlike «tapas» however, «pintxos» are always served in individual portions and are paid for separately from the drinks. Life in Spain revolves around hanging out with friends and family, often in the street, drinking wine or beer and downing these little morsels. If you are in Pamplona on the Calle Estefeta, go to Bodegón Sarria. Great food, lively atmosphere, and directly on the street at the centre of the «Running of the Bulls» during the Festival of San Fermín.