The Onion Article Highlights Common Misconception

An article on satirical website The Onion today describes a confused couple's disappointment to find that Mexican and Spanish food are not one and the same. Read the article: Restaurant Turns Out To Be Spanish, Not Mexican.

Bob, one half of the bewildered couple, exclaims: "Why don't they just have chips and salsa for the appetizer? Instead, they have stuff like prosciutto and melon, and steamed mussels. That sounds like something you wouldn't eat on a dare."

All very funny stuff, but not far from the truth when it comes to many people's first encounters with Spanish food. If you were brought up on Mexican food and are expecting Spanish food to be similar, you're going to be disappointed. Very few Spanish dishes are spicy - the local palette just can't handle it.

This common mistake makes it onto my list of Myths and Misconceptions About Spain. Don't be like Bob, read the list and avoid disappointment when you're in Spain!

See also: Top Ten Spanish Dishes