Coffee culture in Croatia is an integral part of daily life and socializing. Understanding key phrases in Croatian can greatly enhance your experience in this beautiful country, particularly when you find yourself in its quaint cafes and bustling coffee bars. Here’s a look at some essential vocabulary and phrases that will help you navigate the coffee culture in Croatia with ease.

Kava – Coffee
This is the Croatian word for coffee, and it is the cornerstone of the local coffee culture.
Mogu li dobiti jednu kavu, molim vas?

Kafić – Coffee shop
A coffee shop or café where you can order a variety of coffee drinks or other beverages.
Idemo na kavu u onaj novi kafić?

Espresso – Espresso
A strong coffee prepared by forcing steam through ground coffee beans.
Jedan espresso, bez šećera, molim.

Cappuccino – Cappuccino
A popular coffee drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk froth.
Cappuccino s manje pjene, molim vas.

Bez kofeina – Decaffeinated
Referring to coffee without caffeine.
Imate li kavu bez kofeina?

Mlijeko – Milk
Used when you want to add milk to your coffee.
Mogu li dobiti malo više mlijeka u kavi?

Šećer – Sugar
For those who prefer their coffee with sugar.
Molim vas, možete li mi donijeti još malo šećera?

Šlag – Whipped cream
If you want to indulge, you can ask for your coffee with whipped cream.
Molim vas, jedan espresso s šlagom.

Račun – Bill
When you’re ready to leave the kafić, you’ll need to ask for the bill.
Možemo li dobiti račun, kada vam je zgodno?

Natašte – On an empty stomach
Useful to express that you’re having coffee before eating anything.
Ja obično pijem kavu natašte.

Popodnevna kava – Afternoon coffee
Refers to the habit of having a leisurely coffee in the afternoon.
Hoćemo li na popodnevnu kavu oko pet?

Turska kava – Turkish coffee
A traditional preparation method where coffee is simmered in a pot and served unfiltered.
Volio/la bih isprobati tursku kavu s lokumom.

Kratka – Short (for a smaller, stronger coffee)
If you want a smaller serving of coffee which is typically stronger, you can ask for it ‘kratka’.
Molim jedan espresso kratko.

Duga – Long (for a weaker coffee with more water)
Alternatively, if you prefer a milder coffee, you can order it ‘duga’.
Molim vas, jedan espresso, ali neka bude duga.

Pržena kava – Roasted coffee
This refers to the taste profile of the coffee often described in the roasting process.
Obožavam miris svježe pržene kave.

Understanding these key phrases will undoubtedly make your Croatian coffee experience more authentic and enjoyable. Whether you’re ordering a morning espresso or enjoying a leisurely popodnevna kava, knowing how to communicate your preferences will deepen your connection to Croatia’s rich coffee traditions and the local way of life.