What is "tapa"?

Tapa is a type of Spanish cuisine that consists of a wide variety of small dishes or snacks, typically served with drinks in bars and restaurants. Tapa can range from simple dishes such as olives, almonds, and cheese, to more complex dishes such as patatas bravas (potatoes in spicy tomato sauce), croquetas (deep-fried bites filled with ham or cheese), and tortilla española (Spanish omelet). Tapa dishes are often served in small portions, encouraging customers to try a variety of different dishes in one sitting. Tapa is a social and cultural tradition in Spain, where it is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is often served as a pre-dinner snack or as a meal in itself.