How Do I Order Coffee in Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, one of the things you might be wondering is how to order coffee like a local. Spain is known for its delicious coffee culture, so it’s worth taking the time to learn a few key phrases before you go. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.

Know the lingo

First things first – it’s important to know what kind of coffee you want. Here are a few common types of coffee in Spain:

  • Café solo: This is a single shot of espresso.
  • Café con leche: This is similar to a latte – espresso with steamed milk.
  • Cortado: This is espresso with a small amount of milk.

Ordering your coffee

Now that you know what kind of coffee you want, it’s time to order. Here’s an example conversation:

You:

Hola, un café con leche por favor. (Hello, a latte please.)

Barista:

¿Para tomar aquí o para llevar? (For here or to go?)

You:

Para tomar aquí, por favor. (For here, please.)

Barista:

Perfecto. ¿Algo más?

(Perfect. Anything else?)

You:

No gracias, eso es todo. (No thank you, that’s all.)

It’s important to note that in Spain, it’s common to pay for your coffee at the bar instead of at a table.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping in Spain isn’t as common as in other countries – however, it’s still appreciated. If you’re happy with the service, leaving a small tip is a nice gesture. In general, rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient.

Conclusion

Ordering coffee in Madrid is easy once you know what to say. Remember to use the correct terminology for the type of coffee you want, pay at the bar, and consider leaving a small tip if you’re satisfied with the service. Enjoy your coffee like a true local!