Lorraine Williamson
Coffee is an essential part of Spanish daily life. Whether in a bustling city café or a quiet village bar, Spaniards enjoy their coffee in various ways. The culture is about more than just caffeine – it’s a social ritual, a morning routine, and an afternoon pause.
In Spain, it is common to walk into a local bar and order coffee. Unlike in some countries where bars focus primarily on alcohol, Spanish bars serve as informal cafés where people gather throughout the day. Whether for a quick espresso at the counter or a relaxed café con leche at a table, bars are an integral part of Spanish coffee culture.
How to order coffee in Spain
Ordering coffee in Spain can be different from other countries. If you simply ask for a “café,” you’ll usually receive an espresso. To get the coffee you want, it helps to know the local names and variations.
Types of coffee in Spain
Each region has its preferences, but these are the most common types of coffee across the country:
Café Solo
A small but strong shot of espresso, similar to Italian espresso. This is the default order for those who like their coffee pure and intense.
Café Doble
A double espresso for those who need an extra caffeine kick.
Café Cortado
An espresso with a splash of warm milk, balancing the strength of the coffee with a milder taste.
Café con Leche
One of the most popular choices, this is equal parts coffee and hot milk, typically served in a medium-sized cup. It’s a favourite for breakfast.
Café Americano
A diluted espresso with extra hot water, making it milder than a café solo but still full of flavour.
Café Manchado
This is more milk than coffee—ideal for those who want just a hint of coffee in their drink.
Café Bombón
A speciality from Valencia, this is a shot of espresso served over sweetened condensed milk, creating a rich and creamy flavour.
Carajillo
A strong espresso mixed with a shot of alcohol, usually brandy or rum. It’s a traditional pick-me-up, often enjoyed after meals.
Leche y Leche
Popular in the Canary Islands, this drink combines coffee, regular milk, and condensed milk for a sweeter taste.
Café Sombra / Café Nube
Found mainly in Málaga, these are very light coffees, with much more milk than usual. Café sombra has slightly more coffee than café nube.
Café Latte
Similar to café con leche but with more milk and a milder coffee flavour. It is often served in a tall glass.
Cappuccino
A popular choice in tourist areas, cappuccino consists of espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of milk foam. Some places serve it with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon.
Regional coffee specialities
Different parts of Spain have unique ways of serving coffee:
- Málaga – Café Nube and Café Sombra reflect the city’s preference for milkier coffee.
- Valencia – Café Bombón is a local favourite.
- Catalonia – Café Trifásico is similar to a Carajillo but includes a touch of liqueur.
- Canary Islands – The Barraquito is a layered coffee drink with condensed milk, espresso, liqueur, and a touch of cinnamon and lemon.
The social side of coffee in Spain
In Spain, coffee is not just a drink but an experience. Locals enjoy their coffee at leisure, often standing at a bar for a quick espresso or sitting at a terraza for a long conversation. Unlike some countries, takeaway coffee culture is less common—Spaniards prefer to sit down and enjoy their drink.
Coffee is also an essential part of daily schedules:
- Morning – Café con leche or café solo with breakfast.
- Mid-morning (Almuerzo) – A cortado or café solo with a small snack.
- After lunch – An espresso or carajillo, often enjoyed as a digestive.
- Afternoon (Merienda) – A café bombón or a sweet coffee with a pastry.
With so many options, there’s a coffee for every preference, whether strong, sweet, or mild. Whatever your favourite choice of coffee, take your time, enjoy the moment, and order like a local.