Mealtimes in Spain: A Concise Guide to Spanish Dining Culture
When we first visited Gandia, a location that is very typically Spanish it took us some time to get used to the different mealtimes. We looked kind of silly asking for the dinner menu at 7pm!
But we soon got used to the different way of eating in Spain and came to love it. It doesn’t take so long to get used to Spanish time when you’re on holiday.
Read on to find out all about mealtimes in Spain so you know what to expect when you visit.
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Overview Of Mealtimes in Spain
Here’s a brief overview of the Spanish mealtimes to help you adapt to the local customs.
Breakfast (Desayuno)
In Spain, breakfast is usually divided into two smaller meals. The first meal takes place between 7 – 9 AM and consists of a light breakfast such as coffee and pastries or toast.
Brunch (Almuerzo)
The second meal, known as almuerzo or esmorzar, occurs around 10 – 11 AM and could be an early lunch or late breakfast, typically containing sandwiches or a tapas-style snack.
Lunch (Comida)
Lunch is considered the most important meal of the day in Spain. It’s usually served between 12 noon and 3 PM, but the prime time for lunch is between 2 – 3:30 PM.
Lunch meals are often elaborate, consisting of multiple courses and followed by a sobremesa, a Spanish tradition of relaxing after a large meal.
Mid-Afternoon Snack (Merienda)
Spaniards enjoy a mid-afternoon snack called merienda between 5 – 6:30 PM. This light meal could include pastries, sandwiches, or fruits to keep you going until dinner.
Aperitif & Tapas
Between 8 – 10 PM, many people in Spain indulge in a pre-dinner aperitif and tapas which are small dishes shared among friends and family.
It’s a social experience where you can enjoy a variety of flavours while savouring a glass of wine or beer.
Dinner (Cena)
Dinner in Spain is typically served later compared to other countries, usually between 9 – 11 PM. The meal is often lighter than lunch, consisting of smaller portions and fewer courses.
Note: If you are staying in a very touristy area that caters more to overseas visitors you’ll likely find restaurants serving main meals earlier than 9pm.
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Desayuno: The Spanish Breakfast
Typical Breakfast Foods
In Spain, desayuno (breakfast) is a light meal that usually consists of small pastries, bread dishes, or cereal. Spaniards often have two-morning meals—one early and one- late morning.
The first desayuno is quite small, including items like bread and magdalenas (small muffins). Later in the day, the second desayuno or almuerzo picks up, featuring slightly heartier options.
Traditional Spanish breakfast foods often include churros, a fried dough pastry typically dipped in hot chocolate.
Fresh, simple dishes are also popular, such as a slice of bread topped with fresh fruit, tomatoes, or olive oil.
Breakfast Beverages
Beverages play a significant role in Spanish breakfast culture. The most common drink is café con leche, a strong coffee mixed with hot milk.
This coffee drink is so popular that many Spaniards will grab a cup on their way to work or during their mid-morning snack break.
Some Spaniards may also opt for a glass of fresh fruit juice or herbal tea to accompany their breakfast, but coffee is by far the most popular choice.
This simple yet delicious liquid energy helps start the day off right.
When enjoying your Spanish breakfast, embrace the lighter fare and bold flavours of the beverages. This wonderful combination will allow you to truly experience the simplicity and warmth of a desayuno in Spain.
La Comida: The Main Meal of the Day
Timing and Duration
La Comida, or lunch, is the most important meal in Spain and often the heartiest. Generally, it takes place between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM.
As a result of the late lunchtime, you may notice that people tend to stay in their offices or schools until later in the afternoon.
It’s worth mentioning that Spaniards are known for taking their time to enjoy food, so lunch breaks can last up to two hours!
Popular Dishes
A typical Spanish lunch consists of several courses starting with a soup or salad, followed by a main course that usually features rice dishes, meat, fish, or vegetables.
Some popular options include:
- Paella: A renowned Spanish rice dish typically made with saffron, various meats, and/or seafood, along with vegetables such as peppers, peas, and onions.
- Tapas: These small portions of various dishes are often served during lunchtime. They can include anything from slices of Spanish omelette to patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce) or croquettes filled with ham or cheese.
- Meat and Fish: Grilled, roasted, or stewed meat and fish dishes, such as pollo al ajillo (garlic chicken) or bacalao a la vizcaína (cod with a tomato and pepper sauce), are quite popular in la comida.
- Vegetables and Salads: Fresh salads and seasonal vegetables, either grilled or sautéed with olive oil and garlic, make an appearance in la comida as they provide a lighter option in contrast to the heavier dishes.
Menu Del Dia
To make lunch more affordable and accessible, many restaurants offer a Menu Del Dia or Menu of the Day.
This prix-fixe, multi-course menu typically includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a drink, all at a reasonable price.
The options for each course in the Menu Del Dia can range from traditional dishes to more contemporary fare.
Embrace this opportunity to try different mouth-watering dishes and truly experience the Spanish culinary culture.
La Merienda: Spaniards’ Afternoon Snack
Merienda’s Role in Daily Life
In Spain, the daily routine revolves heavily around mealtimes, and merienda plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between lunch and late-night dinner.
As Spanish dinners usually take place around 9-11 PM, this mid-afternoon snack helps you to keep going until dinner time.
La merienda is more than just a snack; it’s an opportunity for people to socialize and spend quality time with family and friends.
Whether you enjoy your merienda at a local café or in the comfort of your home, it’s a chance to pause, relax, and share stories amidst the hustle and bustle of life.
So when in Spain, embrace their culture, and don’t miss out on the delicious experience of merienda. Savor the enticing flavors and soak in the convivial atmosphere to make the most of your Spanish sojourn.
Savoury and Sweet Options
If you find yourself in Spain between 5 and 6:30 PM, it’s time for la merienda. This traditional afternoon snack is similar to afternoon tea but less formal.
Merienda offers a variety of delectable options to hold off your hunger – pick from both savoury and sweet delights.
Popular savoury choices include sandwiches and tapas items. The go-to sandwich would be bocadillo de jamón, a simple yet scrumptious sandwich with thinly sliced ham on crispy bread drizzled with olive oil.
The much-loved tortilla de patatas is a classic choice, too, a Spanish omelette packed with potatoes and onions.
Sweet offerings mainly comprise pastries and baked goods. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Croissants, Magdalena (Spanish muffins), and churros are some of the well-liked sweet treats to savour during merienda.
Tapas: More Than a Meal
Tapas Culture in Spain
In Spain, tapas are not just about the food, they are an essential part of the social experience. Typically served between the hours of 8-10 PM, tapas are small plates of food that are shared amongst family and friends.
When you visit a tapas bar, you’ll likely notice that the atmosphere is buzzing with conversation, laughter, and a sense of community.
One of the unique aspects of tapas culture is the concept of the free tapa. In some regions of Spain, particularly Granada and parts of Andalusia, it’s customary for bars to provide a small tapa for free with each drink order.
This encourages socializing and creates a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy your food, drinks, and company.
Variety of Tapas
There is an incredible variety of tapas dishes available, ranging from simple plates of olives or chorizo to more elaborate dishes like patatas bravas or gambas al ajillo.
Here are a few popular tapas options to consider:
- Olives: A staple in the Mediterranean diet, olives are often served marinated with various herbs and spices.
- Chorizo: This popular Spanish sausage is packed with flavour from smoked paprika, garlic, and other seasonings.
- Patatas Bravas: Crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and sometimes topped with aioli.
- Gambas al Ajillo: Succulent shrimp cooked in garlic and olive oil, with a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.
In certain regions of Spain, like the Basque Country, tapas are also known as pintxos. These small bites are usually served on skewers or toothpicks, with toppings ranging from grilled vegetables to fresh seafood.
When enjoying tapas, remember that the meal is about more than just the food. It’s an opportunity for you to explore the rich culinary varieties of Spain, engage in conversations, and immerse yourself in the culture.
La Cena: A Lighter Evening Meal
Dinner Time and Social Aspect
In Spain, la cena or dinner typically takes place between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Spanish people enjoy a more relaxed and social dining experience, often spending time with friends and family over a leisurely meal.
It is common for Spaniards to dine at home, but they also love to go out to bars and restaurants to enjoy their lighter evening fare.
Typical Dinner Fare
A Spanish dinner usually consists of lighter dishes compared to the heavier lunchtime meal.
Here are some common options you can expect to be served as part of la cena:
- Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of soup is often a popular choice for a lighter dinner in Spain. It can be a simple vegetable-based broth or a more filling option like gazpacho or a seafood soup.
- Salad: Fresh, crisp salads are a common staple for Spanish dinner tables. They can be made with a variety of ingredients, including lettuce, tomatoes, olives, and onions, often topped with tuna, anchovies, or grated cheese.
- Fish: With Spain being a coastal country, fresh fish and seafood are readily available and often feature in dinner dishes. Grilled, baked, or fried, fish is a light and delicious option for a Spanish evening meal.
- Meat: While meats may not be as prominent during dinner as they are during lunch, you may still encounter dishes with small amounts of chicken, beef, or pork, especially in tapas-style servings.
- Cheese: A selection of Spanish cheeses can be a perfect end to a light dinner, accompanied by a glass of local wine or a sweet dessert.
Remember, when you sit down for la cena in Spain, the focus is on good company, conversation, and sharing a variety of small, lighter dishes rather than indulging in a heavy meal.
Enjoy this unique aspect of Spanish dining culture during your time in the country.
Regional Gastronomy
Spain is known for its rich and diverse culinary scene, with each region offering unique and delicious dishes.
In this section, we will explore some of the most iconic dishes from the North and Andalusian regions of Spain. Get ready to immerse yourself in the delights of Spanish food culture.
Dishes from the North
The northern region of Spain, including the city of San Sebastián, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, has built a reputation thanks to its exquisite seafood and innovative cuisine.
As you explore this area, you’ll discover a variety of mouth-watering dishes that highlight the fresh local ingredients.
1. Pintxos: These small bites are the Basque Country’s version of tapas. Commonly served on a skewer or a slice of bread, you’ll find flavorful combinations such as anchovies with piquillo peppers, cured ham with asparagus, or classic tortilla española.
2. Marmitako: A traditional Basque fisherman’s stew, marmitako features fresh tuna, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers cooked in a hearty tomato broth. The flavours meld together to create a satisfying meal that is especially popular during the cooler months.
3. Tarta de Santiago: Hailing from Galicia, this almond-based cake is a must-try for dessert lovers. Often dusted with powdered sugar and stamped with an emblem of the Cross of Saint James, this delicious treat is a favourite during the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
Famous Andalusian Cuisine
The southern region of Andalusia boasts a sun-soaked land that has given birth to a vibrant and flavorful cuisine.
From refreshing gazpacho to delicious seafood dishes, these are some traditional Andalusian dishes you should experience:
1. Gazpacho: This classic cold soup is a summer staple throughout Spain, but its origins lie in Andalusia. Made with ripe tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, onions, garlic, and bread soaked in vinegar, this bright and tangy dish is perfect for hot days. Make sure you have a chance to try salmorejo, a thicker variety from Córdoba.
2. Pescaíto Frito: Reflecting the region’s abundance of seafood, pescaíto frito, or fried fish, is a quintessential Andalusian dish. Fresh fish, such as anchovies or baby squid, are lightly coated in flour and fried to crispy perfection. It is best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a cold drink.
3. Rabo de Toro: This slow-cooked oxtail stew is one of Andalusia’s most iconic dishes. Cooked with red wine, tomatoes, vegetables, and a mix of spices, the tender meat falls off the bone, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal. Often served with crusty bread or along with potatoes, this dish will please your palate and fill your belly.
Through these northern and Andalusian dishes, you can get an enticing glimpse into the regional gastronomy of Spain.
As you continue to explore the culinary landscape, you’ll no doubt discover even more delicious dishes and flavours unique to each region.
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Beverages and Mealtimes
In Spain, beverages play an important role during mealtimes, with various options catering to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic preferences.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the popular beverage options that Spaniards enjoy during meals.
Alcoholic Beverages
Wine: As an essential part of Spanish culture, wine is a popular choice during lunches and dinners. Spain is the world’s third-largest wine producer and offers a diverse selection, including red, white, and rosé wines. The country is particularly famous for its Rioja and Ribera del Duero red wines.
Beer: In addition to wine, beer is another popular alcoholic beverage enjoyed by Spaniards. It is often consumed during informal gatherings or alongside tapas. Popular local beers include Estrella Damm, Mahou, and Cruzcampo.
Vermouth: Vermouth is a fortified wine flavoured with various botanicals, and it has become increasingly popular in Spain, especially during aperitif times. Many bars offer their own house-made versions, sometimes accompanying it with small tapas or pintxos.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Coffee: Spaniards typically drink coffee during breakfast and after lunch. Some common coffee options are café con leche (espresso with steamed milk), cortado (espresso with an equal amount of milk), and café solo (espresso without milk). Keep in mind that ordering a coffee after dinner is less common and may be surprising to some locals.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Spain is known for its abundance of fresh fruits, particularly oranges. During breakfast or as a mid-morning snack, it’s not uncommon to enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to quench your thirst and boost your vitamin intake.
Water: Staying hydrated is essential, and water is usually served alongside any meal in Spain. It’s common to have both still and sparkling water options available. In many areas, tap water is of excellent quality and safe to drink, so remember to ask for agua del grifo if you prefer tap water over bottled.
By knowing the various beverage options available during Spanish mealtimes, you can fully immerse yourself in their gastronomic culture and enjoy an authentic experience.
Dining Out in Spain
Restaurant Mealtimes
When visiting Spain and experiencing its culinary culture, it’s essential to understand the local mealtimes. Spanish mealtimes are generally later than those you might be used to.
Here’s a brief overview of what to expect at Spanish restaurants:
- Breakfast (Desayuno): 7 – 9 AM. Spanish breakfast is usually light and consists of a pastry or bread with jam and butter accompanied by coffee.
- Lunch (Comida): 2 – 3:30 PM. This meal is the most significant of the day and usually consists of multiple courses.
- Dinner (Cena): 9 – 11 PM. Dinner is typically lighter than lunch and features smaller portions.
It’s worth noting that some restaurants may offer a mid-morning snack, called almuerzo, between breakfast and lunch. Similarly, a mid-afternoon snack, or merienda, may be available between 5 – 6:30 PM.
Bars and Cafes
Spanish bars and cafes serve smaller portions and snacks called tapas. Typically, these establishments open their doors for aperitivo around 11:30 AM and close around midnight or later.
The atmosphere in bars and cafes is more relaxed, and it’s common to enjoy drinks and tapas with friends and colleagues.
In the early evening, between 8-10 PM, the tapas culture is in full swing, with many people gathering together over small plates of cured ham, cheese, olives, and other delicious bites.
When dining out in Spain, you’ll find a range of tapas bars, cafes, and traditional restaurants offering a variety of dishes for different mealtimes.
Familiarize yourself with the local customs and adapt to their timing to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish dining experience.
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Spanish Food and Culture
Socializing and Eating
In Spain, food is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s also an opportunity to socialize and connect with friends and family.
Embracing the Mediterranean culture, Spaniards enjoy lingering over their meals, sharing stories, and savouring the different flavours in each dish.
As you explore Spanish dining culture, you will find that these values are deeply ingrained in the country’s traditions and eating habits.
One of the most popular ways to socialize over food in Spain is through tapas. These small plates are meant to be enjoyed with a drink, and people often gather at bars or tapas establishments to share various dishes with friends before heading home for the main meal.
Meal Times and Siestas
When it comes to Spanish meal times, be prepared to adapt to a different schedule compared to many other cultures.
Meals in Spain are spaced out and tend to occur later in the day.
Here is a typical schedule:
- Breakfast (Desayuno): Around 7 – 9 AM, Spaniards enjoy a light breakfast, often featuring a café con leche (coffee with milk) and a pastry or toast.
- Mid-morning snack (Almuerzo): Between 10 – 11 AM, a small snack can be enjoyed to hold you over until lunch.
- Lunch (Comida): The main meal of the day happens around 2 – 3:30 PM and is a time for Spaniards to gather with family or friends. Lunch tends to be a multi-course affair, usually consisting of a starter, main course, and dessert.
- Mid-afternoon snack (Merienda): A light snack, typically enjoyed around 5 – 6:30 PM.
- Dinner (Cena): Dinner is lighter than lunch and is served between 9 – 11 PM. It often consists of multiple small dishes or a single main course.
The famous Spanish siesta, a short afternoon nap or rest period, is traditionally observed in some areas, particularly after having a large lunch.
Siestas provide an opportunity to recharge and escape from the hot midday sun, and they further emphasize the Spanish way of life, which values a slower pace and taking time to enjoy the pleasures of food and conversation.
While not everyone in Spain partakes in a siesta these days, it is still an important part of Spanish culture and history.
As you immerse yourself in Spanish food culture, remember to embrace the Mediterranean mindset of enjoying the moment, connecting with others, and savouring every bite.
Dietary Variations and Trends
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
In recent years, Spain has witnessed a growing interest in vegetarian and vegan diets. While traditional Spanish cuisine often features meat and fish, the country is adapting to the embrace of plant-based lifestyles.
Nowadays, you can find a variety of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and menu options throughout the country.
Many Spanish dishes can be easily adapted to accommodate vegetarian and vegan preferences, such as the popular paella dish, which can include a mix of fresh vegetables instead of meat or seafood.
Additionally, you will find that fresh fruits and vegetables play a significant role in the Spanish diet. Produce markets abound, and locals often source ingredients from these markets for their daily meals.
This focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients not only supports the recent trend towards plant-based diets but also contributes to the overall health benefits associated with the Mediterranean diet.
Modern Influences
As Spain embraces modern culinary trends and international influences, including American cuisine, traditional Spanish mealtimes and food habits are evolving as well.
One example of this is the increasing popularity of fast-food chains and casual dining establishments in major cities.
However, many chefs and restaurateurs in Spain still prioritize the use of fresh, local ingredients and the country’s culinary heritage.
An exciting fusion of traditional Spanish flavours and techniques with global inspiration can be observed in contemporary Spanish cuisine.
Some popular modern twists on Spanish dishes include:
- Tapas with international flavours, such as sushi-style tapas or Middle Eastern-inspired small plates
- Healthy, plant-based variations of classic Spanish dishes, like vegan tortilla española or quinoa-stuffed peppers
- Creative dessert options combining traditional ingredients with new culinary techniques, such as molecular gastronomy
In conclusion, while Spain’s mealtimes and food habits are deeply rooted in history, the country remains open and receptive to new dietary trends and international influences.
This ongoing culinary evolution ensures that you are offered a rich and diverse dining experience during your visit to Spain.
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Essential Phrases for Mealtimes
When dining in Spain, it’s helpful to have a few essential phrases at your disposal, making it easier for you to order food and navigate through Spanish menus.
Here are some key phrases to enhance your mealtime experience:
- Por favor – Please
- Gracias – Thank you
- La cuenta, por favor – The bill, please
- Quiero hacer una reserva – I want to make a reservation
- Menu del día – Menu of the day
When it comes to ordering food, you might find the following phrases useful:
- Quisiera pedir… – I’d like to order…
- ¿Qué me recomienda? – What do you recommend?
- ¿Cuál es el plato del día? – What is the dish of the day?
To better understand the menu, there are some key terms you should be familiar with:
- Entrantes – Starters
- Primeros platos – First courses
- Segundos platos – Second courses
- Postres – Desserts
Allergies and preferences are important to communicate as well. Here are some phrases to express them:
- Soy alérgico/a a… – I am allergic to…
- Soy vegetariano/a – I am vegetarian
- Soy vegano/a – I am vegan
In Spain, it’s common to find a menu del día, which is a fixed-price lunchtime menu consisting of a starter, main course, dessert, and sometimes a drink.
It is a great option for tasting a variety of traditional Spanish dishes at an affordable price.
Now that you have these essential phrases for mealtimes in Spain, you’ll be able to enjoy your dining experience with confidence and ease.
Have a great time exploring the rich culinary culture of Spain!
