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The dating app wanted to celebrate World Tapas Day (June 15) in style with a research to emphasize certain dynamics associated with first dates, as well as the key role of tapas in those first encounters.
The results of the survey of 1,000 Spanish singles conducted by Badoo, using the Ipsos Digital platform, highlighted, in the first instance, authenticity and self-loyalty in terms of both personal character and culinary preferences.
THE TAPA AS A SOCIAL ACT
In this sense, tapas are positioned at the gastronomic pinnacle when it comes to planning the perfect first date, as 58% of respondents would choose an informal setting with shared drinks and tapas (58%), compared to a quarter (25%) who would opt for a unique setting with surprising gastronomic proposals (25%), and 17% who would prefer a formal dinner at a renowned restaurant.
Beyond valuing aspects such as the informality of “tapas”, 54% of respondents highlighted the importance of the choice of tapas as a way of revealing a lot of information about a person’s character and traits, such as personal preferences or openness to new culinary experiences (64%). Eighty-six percent also stated that authenticity was a key aspect of these emotional encounters.
GASTRONOMY AS A SEDUCTION TOOL
Thus, many Spanish singles believe that the selection of tapas has a profound influence on the success of a first date. Forty-four percent of singles believe it plays a substantial role, as it places value on the shared experience and the enjoyment of local flavors. When it comes to impressing someone on a first date, some admit to using gastronomy as a seduction tool, appreciating the power of food to create memorable experiences and showcase Spain’s culinary heritage (44%).
As for the choice itself, the data show that the majority of people prefer classic and authentic tapas (74%), and a minority (26%) prefer modern and sophisticated options. But which tapas are undoubtedly the most popular on first dates? The classic Spanish omelette (62%) followed by Iberian ham (60%) and Galician octopus (45%), with the most avoided tapas being tripe (51%), chorizo (40%) and anchovies in vinegar (33%).
Remy Le Fevre, Senior Director Global Marketing at Badoo, commented on the powerful link between food and dating: “There has always been a powerful connection between food and dating, which naturally go hand in hand, and our research highlights how many of us use our food choices as a way of expressing our authentic selves when dating. However, it is interesting to see that there are also tapas dishes that Spaniards avoid on a first date, despite their tastes. At Badoo, we’re all about authentic people building real relationships and we encourage everyone to be themselves on a first date, including ordering whatever tapas you fancy.
These are the 10 tapas that Spaniards would order:
- Spanish omelette 62%
- Iberian ham 60%
- Galician octopus 45%
- Russian salad 33%
- Garlic prawns 29%
- Potatoes with cabrales 26%
- Smoked salmon 22%
- Mussels 13%
- Anchovies in vinegar 12%
- Chorizo sausage
And these are the 10 they would deny:
- Corns 51%
- Chorizo 40%
- Anchovies in vinegar 33%
- Prawns with garlic 25%
- Mussels 24%
- Potatoes in cabrales sauce 19%
- Russian salad 17%
- Smoked salmon 14%.
- Galician octopus 14%.
- Spanish omelette 12%.
