To understand the Spanish language in regards to food and ordering, it helps to consider the way spanish people eat. In Spain its considered acceptable to have a quick bite to eat in a casual setting, or turn eating into a social affair across several different places. This is the case when you “ir de tapas” or join in with an “el txikiteo”.
When Spanish people do stop for a meal, they like to take their time and enjoy it, formal meals have a long standing culture for the Spanish. So don’t be surprised when a “comida” ends up taking the length of an entire afternoon.
Eating in Spain usually goes down in one of two ways: a group goes to a bodega, tasca or taberna for raciones or they go to a restaurante for a more traditional meal consisting of several platos.
Remember too that “raciones” aren’t supposed to be enjoyed by yourself; the portions are far too large to be enjoyed without company.