Spanish bartenders are credited with creating the first tapas we know today as "small plates" as a method of guarding bar patrons' beverages from fruit flies attracted to sweet wines and popular sherries. As the custom grew and the bartenders became accustomed to covering wine glasses with bread slices, cured ham and cheese, the name for these strategically placed treats originated from the Spanish "tapar," meaning "to cover." Today, the small plate concept has an international menu, thanks to diverse, bite-sized appetizers criss-crossing culinary borders and delighting guests with small bursts of flavor, one bite at a time.