Typical Meal Timetable
It probably does not come as a surprise that food is one of the most difficult things for people to adjust to during culture shock. Differences in times of eating, what you’re eating, and having trouble finding “comfort” foods can be really difficult. Here are some things to help you understand the local culture of food.
Breakfast (desayuno)
Unlike Americans, the Spanish are not known to be big breakfast eaters. They usually have a glass of juice, coffee, toast, or in some cases, nothing at all. Once the day begins, you may see people having a mid-morning snack and coffee at local bars around 11am.
lunch (almuerzo/la comida)
Most Spaniards eat their main meal between 2 and 3pm. This consists of a first plate (entrante), second plate (plato principal), and a dessert (postre). Coffee may or may not be served immediately after the comida. While some Spaniards go home for lunch, most restaurants offer a very reasonably priced Menu del Día (usually around 15€) which includes a first plate, second plate, dessert, bread and beverage.
afternoon snack (la merienda)
Often people have a light snack in the afternoon between 5 and 7pm, which can either be sweet or savory. Many people have this in a bar or café with a coffee or beer.
dinner (la cena)
Dinner is between 9and 10pm (or even later on the weekends) and is usually a lighter meal. You’ll quickly learn that each region of Spain has its own culture and food. Some of the best tapas are still served up in Granada, Pintxos from País Vasco have gained international fame, and if you want a real paella you can find it in its birthplace in Valencia. Catalonia also has its own food traditions which are quite diverse, ranging from pork based dishes in the inland part of the region to fish-based along the coast.