Yes, there are categories of tapas as explained in Joyce Goldstein’s cookbook, Tapas: Sensational Small Plates from Spain. So when you’re planning, have some of each on your table. The "Cosas de picar" are things you nibble, like finger foods; grab an olive or deviled egg! The second type of tapas is the "pincho" or one that means you need a utensil, even if it’s a toothpick. It may be battered and fried fish bites or a skewer of grilled chicken. The last kind of tapas requires a small plate or dish and a utensil. Yes, the sauce type, and it’s called a "cazuela" (little dish). So, if you’ve got some meatballs in sauce, have those small plates or maybe a small serving of pasta with creamy sauce.
The important thing is to gather up your friends and be in a merriment mood for libations and eating. With the "tapeo," the art of eating tapas, you want lively conversation, relaxation, laughter and nothing really prim and proper. You want laughter, chatter, gaiety and fun. Isn’t that the kind of entertaining we want to do? It’s something memorable and charming that friends will talk about around the water cooler for days following the soiree!