In northern Spain, where dinner is typically served after 9 pm, locals crowd the bars after work for a glass of wine, a plate of tapas – simple, fresh finger food – and lively company. Kansas City's La Bodega captures not only the flavor and beauty of the tapas tradition, but its lively spirit as well. Everything about the place is funky and fun, from the long, triangular shape of the open room to the murals on the walls and ceiling, the mosaic-tiled bar, and the closely packed tables. Bring your rowdiest friends, and order a glass of wine – La Bodega, which translates as "the wine cellar," offers 50 wines by the glass – or some sangria to sip while you debate which of the more than two dozen tapas varieties to sample. Most come with three or five mouth-sized servings to a plate, and a typical order is two to three plates for each diner. Spaniards love roasted red peppers (pimientos). Try them stuffed with ahi tuna and rice or with anchovies on tomato bread. The gambas a la plancha (sautéed shrimp in garlic), albóndigas caseras (meatballs in spicy cream sauce) and patatas bravas (potatoes in spicy tomato sauce) will make you reach for the breadbasket to sop up every last drop. The dinner menu also includes salads, paella and entrées of steak, chicken, pork and tuna. For dessert, choose the honey vanilla flan, a pear tart or a snifter of 20-year-old port. At $4 to $10 for each tapa, the bill can add up quickly. The budget-conscious can come during the long happy hour (2 pm–6 pm) weekdays when selected tapas, beer, wine and well drinks are half-price. Reservations suggested. Full bar. Serving lunch Mon–Sat, dinner and late-night nightly.