In Spain, coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s a ritual.
It’s a pause in the day, a reason to meet a friend, and sometimes even an excuse to take a break from the rush of life.
If you’ve ever sat at a Spanish café and looked around, you’ve probably noticed it — the clinking of cups, the easy laughter, the hum of conversation. Coffee is woven into daily life here, from the early morning café con leche to the late-afternoon cortado.
So, if you’re planning your next trip to Spain (or just dreaming of it), here’s a simple guide to help you order your coffee like a local — without breaking into a sweat at the counter.
☕ Café Solo
The Spanish version of an espresso — short, strong, and straightforward. Perfect when you need focus, or simply want to stand at the bar and feel like a local.
☕ Cortado
A shot of espresso cut with a touch of warm milk. Smooth, balanced, and often the mid-morning favorite — just enough caffeine without being too heavy.
☕ Café con Leche
The classic. Half espresso, half milk, usually served in a larger cup or glass. It’s what most Spaniards drink for breakfast with tostada con tomate (toasted bread with tomato and olive oil).
☕ Café Americano
An espresso topped up with hot water — milder and perfect for slow mornings or long chats at a café table.
☕ Café Bombón
Layers of espresso and sweet condensed milk — small, sweet, and indulgent. A must-try for dessert lovers.
☕ Café con Hielo
Summer’s essential! You’ll get your espresso served alongside a glass of ice cubes — pour, stir, and enjoy your Spanish iced coffee.
☕ Leche Manchada / Sombra
Mostly milk with just a “stain” of coffee — light, gentle, and surprisingly comforting. Popular in the south of Spain.
🌞 Coffee, the Spanish Way
In Spain, people don’t just drink coffee — they share it.
It’s a reason to stop, to talk, to connect. Ordering a coffee is often just the beginning of something more — a chat, a friendship, or a moment of stillness between errands.
So next time you’re in Spain, don’t rush. Sit down, take a sip, and let time slow down just a little.
And remember: no matter how you order it, if you do it with a smile, it’ll always taste wonderful.
☕ Find Your Perfect Cup
Whether you’re a cortado kind of person or a café con leche lover, our handcrafted ceramic cups come in all sizes to match your ritual — from generous morning mugs to tiny espresso sets.
Because coffee tastes better when shared, and even better when served beautifully.