What are tapas? Spanish for a wide variety of appetizers, tapas can be anything from paella to bacon wrapped dates to a variety of cheeses served at the same time and to share with your friends or lover. I’ve eaten tapas at several different Tapas Restaurants in LA. And I’d have to say the following three are my favorites:

The Courtyard (located at 8543 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood) has an unassuming entrance, but as you walk down the steps you are literally transformed into a lovely courtyard in Spain. With a fountain in the center and plenty of tables and chairs for a couple or a large group, you would think that you were sitting alongside the streets of Granada. The menu includes such signature plates as Pupusas, Paella and Croquetas, and don’t forget to order a pitcher of sangria with flavors from peach to blueberry-lemonade…you will certainly find your favorite. Prices range from $6-24, so it’s not a bad option for an inexpensive night out. Visit the website for more information www.thecourtyardla.com

Cobras and Matadors in Hollywood (7615 Beverly Blvd.) has a different Spanish flair. With it’s rich, dark woods and dim lighting, the atmosphere is cozy and intimate especially with the a wood-fire oven in the corner. Keeping true to the tapas menu, Cobras offers an authentic selection of Fire Roasted Sobrasada (ground chorizo sausage on olive oil focaccia); Spanish-style barbequed Skirt Steak marinated in Orange juice and paprika; and the Baked Spanish Goat Cheese with Port wine syrup and tostado–unbelievable! Don’t forget to bring your favorite bottle of Spanish wine because they won’t charge a corking fee. Be sure to visit their other location in Los Feliz at 4655 Hollywood Blvd.

Ole Tapas Bar (www.oletapasbar.com) in Studio City has my favorite martini in town — Fireside — a combination of Kettle One, pomegranate juice, champagne and triple sec. After a couple of these, you’ll want to clear away the lounge area and create your own dance floor. From the moment you walk through the large wood double doors, your eyes immediately see the red walls lined with bullfighting artwork and black leather bench seating surrounding the restaurant. The large cherry wood bar is a great place to sit with your significant other to share in their eclectic menu. The Seared Tuna Carpacio, Croquetas de Patata y Jamon, and Beef Empenada are my favorite dishes. But you can’t forget to order dessert—–Fondue de Chocolate —–served with fresh fruit and sponge cake…well worth saving room for this decadent treat.

If you love tapas as much as I do, I hope you’ll visit one of my favorite tapas restaurants. I’m sure there is one nearby you. If so, let me know what I’m missing.