Permanently Closed - Modesto Tapas Bar and Restaurant is St. Louis' first Spanish tapas restaurant. Tapas are a time-honored and cherished part of Spanish cuisine. The tapa (from the verb tapar - to cover) originally was a slice of bread or cured ham placed over the mouth of a wine glass. As the popularity of the custom grew, so did the variety. In Spain, tapas are much more than a culinary delight - they represent a lifestyle - an opportunity to share good times with friends in an unrushed, carefree manner. At Modesto guests are encouraged to do the same.