Usually people get 1 drink (soda, wine, beer, etc...) and 1 tapa per person, and then maybe get a second/third drink/tapa in the same bar or move to another bar and repeat the process. There is no obligation of having every time the tapa/drink duo, so you can order just a drink or a tapa.

Free tapas are served as a generosity, and are therefore not something you are entitled to only because you have ordered a drink. You may notice everyone is receiving a tapa while the waiter seems to have forgotten yours, in which case you could kindly remind him, but it is definitely not a matter to get upset about.

Portion sizes will vary by restaurant, but typically, ordering 2 to 3 tapas per person gets the job done. So a party of 4 would order 8 to 12 tapas between them. Don't be afraid to ask your server if you haven't ordered enough food, and remember, your friends are there to help if you've ordered too much.

Traditionally they are small savoury dishes, snacks or appetisers of Spanish cuisine. It might be breads and meat, or a selection of dishes from ham, stuffed mussels, fried squid, to olives, sautéed mushroom and other vegetables. Essentially, Tapas is a small plate or serving, and it's a great way to try something new.