Where to expect tapas with a drink in Spain
Granada has a strong included-tapa tradition, but ask about the bar's offer rather than expecting free food everywhere.
In Granada, many bars serve a small tapa with an eligible drink. That can make a pleasant way to try a few things, but it is not a promise of a free dinner or a rule for every bar in Spain.
The Granada tourism board describes tapas included with beer or local wine. Check the arrangement in the bar you choose, including whether other drinks qualify and whether you can choose the tapa.
Ask before making assumptions
A simple question about what comes with the drink is enough. Some places choose the food for you, while others offer a selection. A plate ordered separately from the menu may be charged even if a small tapa is also included.
Read the drink price and the food menu together. If you are hungry, a paid dish may be better value than repeatedly buying drinks just to receive another small bite.
For vegetarian food or an allergy, explain your needs before the tapa arrives. The included selection may contain meat, fish or an ingredient that is not obvious. Ask whether a suitable alternative is available rather than assuming every bar can provide one.
Other cities have their own habits
León also has a strong tapas culture, described in Castile and León's tourism information. That does not establish one serving size or offer across the city.
Elsewhere, tapas may simply be small dishes you order and pay for. A menu with individual prices is useful information. Do not demand an included plate because it was offered in another town.
Keep the evening comfortable
Choose a couple of nearby places rather than rushing through a long list. Keep track of what your group orders and settle the bill according to the bar's routine. Water and alcohol-free drinks are reasonable choices, with the included-food arrangement checked separately.
For a full daytime meal, our Spanish menú del día guide explains a more predictable way to compare the cost of several courses.
Granada and the Basque cities are different plans
The Granada guide treats an included tapa as a small bonus after checking the bar’s offer. In San Sebastián, pintxos are dishes to price and order; the drink does not establish that the food is included. Decide whether you want a snack or dinner before starting. If the group is hungry, ordering a shared dish can be easier to budget than another round of drinks for uncertain portions.