If you’re living in Spain, whether it’s for a few months, a study abroad program, or a longer adventure, learning how to order coffee is essential. Spain isn’t just a country of coffee lovers; it’s a place where coffee means connection, community, and a moment to slow down.
At LAE Madrid, we love teaching our students about the cultural side of Spanish life, and there’s nothing more Spanish than tomar un café. So, let’s dive into the coffee world and learn how to order like a true local!
The Most Popular Types of Coffee in Spain
Spain has a coffee for every mood and every time of day. Here are the most common ones you’ll find in cafés and bars:
- Café solo: A small, strong espresso, pure energy in a cup.
- Cortado: Espresso “cut” with a splash of milk.
- Café con leche: Half coffee, half milk. The classic Spanish breakfast drink.
- Café americano: A more diluted version with plenty of hot water.
- Carajillo: A bold coffee with a splash of liquor, usually whisky or brandy.
- Café con hielo: Perfect for summer! Espresso served with ice cubes to pour over yourself.
And if you prefer less caffeine, you can always ask for a descafeinado (decaf). Non-dairy milk options like leche de soja, avena, arroz or almendra are also widely available.
Temperature, Sugar & How to Order
When ordering, you can personalize your coffee just like Spaniards do:
- Temperature: Muy caliente, templado o frío (very hot, warm, or cold)
- Sweetness: Con azúcar o sin azúcar (with or without sugar)
- Type of milk: Normal o vegetal (regular or plant-based)
And here’s how to ask for it politely:
“Quiero un café con leche, por favor.”
“Ponme un cortado, por favor.”
Both are completely natural in Spain, just don’t forget the por favor!
When Do Spaniards Drink Coffee?
For most Spaniards, coffee is a ritual that marks different moments of the day:
- Morning: With breakfast, or as a media mañana pick-me-up.
- After lunch: To keep the post-meal conversation going.
- Afternoon: The cafecito de la tarde is a social moment, not just caffeine, but connection.
In Spain, coffee isn’t about rushing out the door; it’s about taking time to enjoy, chat, and recharge.
Fun Facts About Coffee in Spain
International Coffee Day is celebrated on October 1st, mark your calendar!
Spaniards drink around 14 billion cups of coffee per year.
Coffee is actually grown in Canary Islands, though most is imported.
Most importantly: coffee is a social act. It’s rare to drink it alone. It’s shared with friends, colleagues, or classmates.
Coffee and Connection at LAE Madrid
At LAE Madrid, we believe language learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you’re discussing Spanish verbs with your teacher or chatting with classmates over a café con leche, every moment is an opportunity to connect, inguistically and culturally.
So next time you’re in Madrid, find your favorite local café, order like a pro, and let Spanish conversation flow with your coffee. ☕
Watch the YouTube Version & Stay Connected
Want to hear how these phrases sound in real Spanish conversations? ☕
👉 Watch the YouTube video version and practice with us!
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