Eating in Spain is a pleasure, but it pays to know a few rules so you don't find kitchens closed or unexpected bills. For typical dishes see Spanish cuisine.
Meal times
| Meal | Usual time | What people eat |
|---|---|---|
| Desayuno | 7:30-10 | coffee, tostada with tomato and oil, pastries, sometimes churros |
| Almuerzo | 10:30-12 | mid-morning snack, often a bocadillo |
| Comida | 2-4 pm | the main meal of the day |
| Merienda | 6-7 pm | sweet or savoury snack |
| Cena | 9-11 pm | lighter than lunch, often tapas |
In the north times are a little earlier, in the south and in summer later. In tourist areas many places serve food all day.
The menú del día
At lunchtime, Monday to Friday, almost all restaurants offer the menú del día: a starter, a main course, bread, a drink (often wine, beer or water) and a dessert or coffee at a fixed price, usually between 12 and 18 euros, more in big cities and smart places. It is the cheapest way to eat a full, home-style meal. It began in 1965, when the government required restaurants to offer an affordable "tourist menu".
Where to eat
- Bar and cafetería: for breakfast, a bocadillo, coffee or a beer at the counter.
- Tasca, taberna and bodega: traditional places for tapas and raciones, larger portions to share.
- Mesón and asador: rustic restaurants specialising in grilled or roast meats.
- Marisquería: seafood specialists; arrocería: rice dishes.
- Chiringuito: beach kiosk or restaurant, often with grilled fish (in Andalusia the famous sardine espetos).
- Restaurante: traditional or chef-led restaurant.
Tapas
Going de tapas is one of the most Spanish experiences: you move from bar to bar eating small bites and drinking a glass of wine or a caña (draught beer). In some cities, such as Granada, León, Jaén and Almería, a free tapa comes with your drink. See tapas.
Bill, tipping and water
- Ask the waiter for the bill (la cuenta); there is usually no cover charge, but bread may be charged.
- Tipping is not compulsory: people leave small change or 5-10% for good service.
- Tap water (agua del grifo) is drinkable almost everywhere and can be requested free in a jug; in some areas, such as the islands, it does not taste very pleasant.
- Prices at the bar counter (barra) are sometimes lower than at a table or on the terrace.
Useful words
Una caña (small draught beer), un tinto (red wine), un vino blanco, un café solo (espresso), un cortado (espresso with a dash of milk), un café con leche, la carta (menu), para compartir (to share), ¿qué me recomienda? (what do you recommend?), sin gluten, la cuenta, por favor. See the phrasebook.