Since I have arrived in Spain, I have to say there has been one thing on my mind: food. Starting on the first day, when I tasted the tortilla de patatas, to last night, where I enjoyed Argentinian herb sirloin, each flavor has gotten better and better. My experience with food here has been quite different from the typical eating style back home. I have never experienced such a warm and welcoming atmosphere while dining. Having worked in the restaurant industry for a while, I realize that the goal in America is to get the customer in and out as quickly as possible while still making sure the restaurant makes a profit. However, in Spain, they make you feel like a guest being welcomed into their home rather than a customer. While dining, you must request the check from the waiter when you are ready to leave so that you never feel rushed. Also, they take their time to prepare each dish carefully, making sure it is of the best quality. Another thing that I noticed is the way their culture drinks alcohol. Whereas at home people tend to binge drink, here they slowly enjoy each drink to appreciate the quality and flavors within it. There are people who specialize in wine tasting in America, however that is saved for the upper classes. In Spain, everyone becomes these experts as they embrace the appreciation for drinking from a young age.
One of my favorite meals was in Segovia, when eating Cochinillo asado. The Cochinillo is a speciality in Segovia in which they roast baby pigs. Although it was sad to think about those cute baby pigs, I tried to focus on the amazing flavors instead! Overall, my appreciation for food has increased tremendously. I hope i do not have too hard of a time adjusting back to
American food, but we will see… :/