We all know that Europe has a big coffee culture. But what if coffee isn’t your thing?
Portugal is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture. Mornings and lunchtimes at ‘pastelarias’ (pastry shops) are filled with people enjoying their ‘bica’ (espresso) as part of their daily routine. You might find this quite frustrating if you’re not a coffee lover.
Don’t worry! There are plenty of other choices. Here is a list of 7 alternatives to coffee for you to order the next time you visit a ‘pastelaria’ in Portugal.
1. Uma Carioca de Limão (Lemon Infusion)
If you prefer a lighter option, try a ‘carioca de limão.’ This simple but refreshing drink consists of hot water infused with lemon peel, served in an espresso cup. If you want a larger portion, order ‘chá de limão’ (lemon tea) instead. Add a touch of honey for a soothing treat, especially when you’re feeling under the weather.
2. Chá (Tea)
Tea, or ‘chá,’ is another popular option in Portugal, offering a range of flavors and health benefits. While it’s different from England’s tea culture, there are several varieties to choose from:
3. Chá Preto (Black Tea): If you enjoy a strong tea, ask for ‘chá preto.’ Want it with milk? Simply say ‘chá preto com leite.’ Be mindful that some cafés might serve it with milk by default, especially for foreign guests.
4. Chá de Camomila (Chamomile Tea): Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea is great for relaxation and digestion.
5. Chá de Tília (Linden Tea): A popular herbal tea in Portugal, ‘chá de tília’ is known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and offer various health benefits.
Pro Tip: Explore the tea options by checking the counter. Some cafés have an extensive selection, while others might offer a smaller variety.
6. Um Copo de Leite (A Glass of Milk)
Not a fan of coffee at all? You can always ask for ‘um copo de leite,’ a simple glass of warm milk. It’s a comforting option, especially if even a ‘galão clarinho’ (very milky coffee) seems too much.
7. Leite com Chocolate (Hot Chocolate)
If you’re craving something sweet, give ‘Ucal Quente’ a try! ‘Ucal’ is a popular chocolate milk brand in Portugal, available in most cafés and ‘pastelarias.’ You can enjoy it hot or cold. Just ask the barista to warm it up using the steam wand from the coffee machine.
Alternatively, many cafés offer powdered hot chocolate, and some even feature special hot chocolate menus. Don’t hesitate to check what’s available and indulge! You can learn how to ask for something in Portuguese in this post. How to ask for something in Portuguese.
Whether you’re avoiding coffee or simply looking for a change, Portugal’s cafés offer a wide array of beverages to satisfy your cravings. From herbal teas to indulgent hot chocolates, there’s always something new and exciting to try. Embrace the variety and enjoy the local café culture!
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