SANTA FE FOOD TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Small Plates, Big Histories: A Santa Fe Demonstration of Authentic Spanish Tapas
A 3-hour demonstration class in Santa Fe where professional chefs lead tapas preparations, you sample generous tastings, and you leave with recipes to recreate the menu at home.
Small Plates, Big Histories: A Santa Fe Demonstration of Authentic Spanish Tapas.
In Santa Fe, a compact demonstration class traces the direct lines from 16th-century Spanish arrivals to the robust flavors now celebrated in the Southwest. Over three hours, chefs prepare a sequence of classic Spanish small plates—explaining techniques, ingredients and the convivial customs behind shared tapas—while participants sample each dish and receive recipes to take home.
Highlights
Class Highlights
Spanish Roots, Southwestern Resonance
The class places Spanish regional foodways in historical context, showing how techniques and ingredients introduced in the 16th century shaped the flavors of the region before they blended with Native New Mexican foods.
A Sequence of Signature Tapas
An abundant tasting menu features warm toasts with Serrano ham and tomato spread, baked spinach with goat cheese and onion compote, grilled beef with smoked sea salt caramel, Mediterranean salad, shrimp with almond and pine nut sauce, and magdalenas.
Chef Demonstration and Recipes to Keep
Professional chefs demonstrate each preparation and participants receive a recipe packet; the class combines live technique instruction with a cooked meal served during the session.
What the day feels like
What the class feels like
The flow is deliberate and observant: chefs cook before the group, explaining ingredients and techniques as they build each tapa; between demonstrations participants enjoy generous tastings, and the session concludes with recipes and the chance to ask questions—all within a three-hour demonstration format.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this class suits—and who may want something different.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The class runs three hours.
No special gear is required; attendees receive a recipe packet and the session includes an authentic Spanish meal prepared by the chefs.
Complimentary water, coffee, hot tea and iced tea are provided; beer, wine and soda are available for purchase.
The class is offered by the Santa Fe School of Cooking in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the class?
The demonstration class lasts three hours.
Is this a hands-on cooking class?
No; this is a demonstration class where professional chefs cook while participants observe and taste.
Will I get recipes to take home?
Yes. A recipe packet is provided to participants.
Are beverages included?
Complimentary water, coffee, hot tea and iced tea are included; beer, wine and soda can be purchased.
Is a meal served?
Yes. The session includes an authentic Spanish meal cooked by the chefs and generous tastings of the featured tapas.
Who runs the class?
The class is offered by the Santa Fe School of Cooking in Santa Fe, New Mexico.