At the Supermarket
In many Spanish-speaking countries, locals prefer to shop at markets or individual shops that specialize in just one thing, such as the carnicería(butcher shop) and panadería(bakery). For a visitor, shopping like a local would mean saying goodbye to getting everything in one place!
While shopping like a local is a great way to experience a city, it’s arguably more convenient to visit a one-stop supermarket.
Let’s take a look at the phrases and vocabulary you need to know to survive a trip to a supermarket in a Spanish-speaking country. Make sure to keep an eye out for ofertas(sales)!
Common Supermarket Sections and Aisles
Supermarkets in Spanish-speaking countries are often divided into departamentos(departments), then pasillos(aisles). By familiarizing yourself with the following list of vocabulary, you will be able to understand the signs throughout the supermarket, making it easier to find what you need.
| Spanish | English | Spanish | English |
|---|---|---|---|
| snacks | produce | ||
| cleaning products | home | ||
| drinks | ready-to-eat | ||
| meat counter | pets | ||
| deli counter | bakery (bread) | ||
| frozen foods | bakery (cakes and pastries) | ||
| personal care | fish counter | ||
| canned goods | cleaning products | ||
| spices | baking supplies | ||
| pharmacy | dairy |
Useful Phrases for the Supermarket
If you need assistance at a supermarket in a Spanish-speaking country, you will need to put your Spanish skills to use! Let’s take a look at some common phrases you can use at the supermarket. Don’t forget to say por favor(please) and gracias(thank you)!
Now let’s take a look at a short dialogue between a empleado(employee) and a cliente(customer).
Supermarkets in Spanish-Speaking Countries
Going to the supermarket in a Spanish-speaking country is a cultural experience. Let’s talk about a few things you may notice.
The metric system is used in all Spanish-speaking countries, so don’t mistake kilos for pounds. Also, don’t make the mistake of assuming the grocery store will be open on a Sunday. Many supermarkets throughout the Spanish-speaking world close on Sundays.
In Chile and in Mexico, there are workers who bag your groceries and work for tips. Remember to give them a propina(tip)! Also, try to remember to bring your own reusable shopping bags because many cities have banned the use of plastic bags.
When buying leche(milk) at a grocery store in a Spanish-speaking country, you may be surprised to see the milk on the shelves instead of in the refrigerated section. In most Spanish-speaking countries, milk producers use ultra-high-temperature pasteurization (UHT), which allows the milk to be stored at room temperature until it is opened. Additionally, milk is often sold in bags instead of cartons or jugs throughout South America.
Lastly, depending on what city you are in and the quality of the supermarket, you may find that the selection is not what you are used to. It’s best to learn how to shop with the ingredients at your local supermarket rather than trying to find the ingredients for your favorite dishes from home.
Hungry for more food-related vocabulary? Make sure to check out these articles!
