Food

Vocabulary

Last updated: April 28, 2025
Food is an important part of Spanish culture, and knowing food vocabulary will enhance your travel experience and help you appreciate the rich culinary traditions of Spanish-speaking countries.

Food Categories

SpanishEnglish
la comidafood
el desayunobreakfast
el almuerzolunch
la cenadinner
la meriendasnack/afternoon tea
el aperitivoappetizer
el plato principalmain course
el postredessert
la bebidadrink

Fruits and Vegetables

SpanishEnglish
la manzanaapple
el plátano / la bananabanana
la naranjaorange
las uvasgrapes
la fresastrawberry
el limónlemon
la zanahoriacarrot
la patata / la papapotato
el tomatetomato
la cebollaonion
el ajogarlic
la lechugalettuce

Meat and Seafood

SpanishEnglish
la carnemeat
el pollochicken
la ternera / la resbeef
el cerdopork
el corderolamb
el pescadofish
los mariscosseafood
los camarones / las gambasshrimp
el pulpooctopus
el calamarsquid

Common Dishes in Spanish-Speaking Countries

DishCountryDescription
la paellaSpainRice dish with saffron, vegetables, and seafood or meat
las tapasSpainSmall portions of various dishes served as appetizers
la tortilla españolaSpainSpanish omelet with potatoes
los tacosMexicoFolded tortillas filled with meat, vegetables, and salsa
el guacamoleMexicoAvocado-based dip with lime, tomato, and onion
las empanadasVariousPastry turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
el cevichePeru/EcuadorRaw fish marinated in citrus juices
las arepasVenezuela/ColombiaCorn cakes that can be filled with various ingredients

Useful Phrases for Ordering Food

SpanishEnglish
¿Me puede recomendar algo?Can you recommend something?
¿Cuál es el plato del día?What is the dish of the day?
Quisiera...I would like...
Para mí...For me...
¿Tiene algo vegetariano?Do you have something vegetarian?
Soy alérgico/a a...I'm allergic to...
La cuenta, por favorThe bill, please
Estaba deliciosoIt was delicious