BACK BAY. This restaurant-lounge captures the true spirit and style of Spain, from the easy-going air to the colorful art to the intoxicating music. Not just a pretty scene, BarLola also sees to discriminating palates' tastes for "tapas y vino." Indeed, small cold and hot plates like mixed olives with Canary Island dressing and Andalucian braised lamb, respectively, dominate the menu. Meanwhile, the wine list is composed of hand-selected Spanish vintages, and their sangria is legendary. What's more, the signature elixir, the Lolita (Stoli Perik, Gran Torres and mango juice), is as potently delish as they come.

CAMBRIDGE. Neighbors in the vicinity of Central Kitchen love being able to pop in anytime for great, rustic food. CK's consistently excellent appetizers and entrees have a Mediterranean sensibility but also include a handful of New American and Spanish items. Starters include tasty plates of olives, breads, and mushrooms, and entrees feature marinated and grilled seafood, meat, and vegetable creations. The dessert list offers special treats too. Copper-topped tables and a blackboard wall behind the bar make for interesting interior accents.

SOMERVILLE. Just up the street from Inman Square, head to this exciting Spanish restaurant whose interior is adorned with colorful and somewhat crazy decorations and whose menu sports some of the best tapas to be found in the whole of Boston. Notable favorites include the cherizo sausage and braised rabbit. Plus, the sangria is top-notch. The atmosphere is fun and lively, and the wait staff cheerful and experienced.

CAMBRIDGE. Rialto, set at the corner of Eliot Street in the Charles Hotel, is an eclectic restaurant whose menu includes Spanish, Italian, and French specialties. Representative entrees include roasted venison, grilled quail, mahogany clams, lobster, and braised lamb shank. The romantic spot also features a coconut and passion fruit napoleon that's great for sharing.

BROOKLINE. Taberna de Haro is the place to go in Brookline for tapas and Spanish wine. The atmosphere at this establishment is quite festive, and the servers are attentive. The tapas menu is quite creative and includes treats such as grilled asparagus, steamed shrimp, mushrooms sautéed in garlic, and a small cheese plate. But, don't stop with the tapas. Follow through with a dessert; their selection is outstanding. Try the vanilla custard soup-it's almost legendary.