cantina
“cantina” means “bar” in Spanish (a traditional drinking establishment, especially in Mexico).
bar, cafeteria
Also: tavern, canteen
📝 In Action
Vamos a la cantina para tomar unos tequilas y comer botanas.
A2Let's go to the bar to have some tequilas and eat snacks.
Los trabajadores almuerzan todos los días en la cantina de la fábrica.
B1The workers eat lunch every day in the factory cafeteria.
La cantina del instituto vende sándwiches muy buenos.
A1The high school snack bar sells very good sandwiches.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cantina
Question 1 of 3
If you are at a Spanish train station and want a quick coffee, where should you look?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Italian word 'cantina', meaning a wine cellar or cave. This comes from 'canto', which means a corner or side.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 'cantina' the same as a 'bar'?
Mostly, yes! However, 'cantina' often implies a more traditional or rustic atmosphere compared to a modern 'bar'.
Can children go into a cantina?
In Spain, if it's a school or station cafeteria, yes. In Mexico, traditional cantinas were once adult-only spaces, but many modern ones allow families, especially during the day.
Does it mean 'canteen' in English?
Yes, but only in the sense of a place where people eat (like a workplace canteen), not the metal bottle used by hikers.